Nutrition and hair

The Trotter collection: A review of Mildred Trotter's hair research and an update for studies of human variation

OBJECTIVES

Mildred Trotter was an anatomist and physical anthropologist whose studies on hair morphology, growth, somatic distribution, and trait relationships to age and ethnogeographic population were foundational to the field of microscopical hair analysis. The collection of human hair samples she assembled for her research has been an underutilized resource for studies on human hair variation. We applied updated methods and reviewed Trotter's original data to reassess the relationship hair traits have to diverse population labels.

METHODS

Hair form and pigmentation patterns were measured from a subset of the hair samples accumulated by Trotter and we compared our data to Trotter's original results. Variability in hair traits were tested within individuals, within populations, and among ethnogeographic groups.

RESULTS

Measured hair cross-section dimensions and melanosome density and distribution revealed substantial variability within individuals and ethnogeographic populations. Hair traits were found to not be distinctly separable by ancestry but instead showed continuous variation across human populations. Trotter's measurements were precise and the dataset she compiled remains valid, though the conclusions should be reviewed in light of our current understanding of human variation.

DISCUSSION

Our findings support moving away from categorical ancestry classifications and eliminating the use of outdated racial typologies in favor of more descriptive trait analysis. Detailed analysis of trait pattern distributions are presented that may be useful for future research on human variation. We point to the need for additional research on human variation and hair trait relationships with reference to known population affinity.

Wives with long and high-quality hair have more frequent sex

The image of an ideal woman often involves her having long, silky hair. However, the dearth of psychological research on hair limits the understanding of how women's hair functions in romantic relationships. While some scholars have found that the appearance of women's hair signals reproductive potential to men, whether women's hair may affect their sexual lives remains unknown. To investigate the function of hair in romantic relationships, we tested whether women's hair quality and length are associated with sexual frequency in marital dyads. We conducted a paid online survey involving 204 heterosexual marital dyads. The results indicated that women with long and high-quality hair experienced more frequent sexual intercourse with their spouse, as it heightened their husband's perception of their attractiveness and, consequently, intensified their husband's sexual desire toward them. Neither men's hair length nor quality was associated with sexual frequency. Implications of the study are further discussed.

Local and systemic mechanisms that control the hair follicle stem cell niche

Hair follicles are essential appendages of the mammalian skin, as hair performs vital functions of protection, thermoregulation and sensation. Hair follicles harbour exceptional regenerative abilities as they contain multiple somatic stem cell populations such as hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) and melanocyte stem cells. Surrounding the stem cells and their progeny, diverse groups of cells and extracellular matrix proteins are organized to form a microenvironment (called 'niche') that serves to promote and maintain the optimal functioning of these stem cell populations. Recent studies have shed light on the intricate nature of the HFSC niche and its crucial role in regulating hair follicle regeneration. In this Review, we describe how the niche serves as a signalling hub, communicating, deciphering and integrating both local signals within the skin and systemic inputs from the body and environment to modulate HFSC activity. We delve into the recent advancements in identifying the cellular and molecular nature of the niche, providing a holistic perspective on its essential functions in hair follicle morphogenesis, regeneration and ageing.

Influence of Isoflavones and Probiotics on Magnesium Status in Healthy Female Rats

Isoflavones and probiotics are promising nutrients for bone health, and magnesium (Mg) is essential for bone metabolism. This study aimed to determine the effects of daidzein, genistein and Lactobacillus acidophilus on the Mg status of healthy female rats. Forty-eight rats were randomly assigned to six groups, with the control group receiving a standard diet (AIN 93M). The remaining groups were fed the same diet with added ingredients such as tempeh flour; soy flour; pure daidzein and genistein; L. acidophilus or a combination of daidzein, genistein, and L. acidophilus. Tissue samples were collected after the eight-week intervention, and Mg concentrations were analysed using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Myeloid and erythroid cells were determined using the haematoxylin and eosin bone staining method. Statistical analyses were conducted using one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The threshold for significance was p < 0.05. Compared with the control group, adding tempeh to the diet of rats resulted in significant changes in Mg concentrations in various tissues, with a decrease in the kidneys and an increase in the fur. Although not statistically significant compared to the control group, the tempeh group showed increased Mg concentrations in the femur and spleen. The myeloid-to-erythroid cell ratio did not differ significantly among groups, but all intervention groups showed higher ratios than the control group. A strong negative correlation was observed between Mg concentrations in the kidneys and fur. Conversely, a positive correlation was identified between Mg concentrations in the pancreas and fur. Daily consumption of tempeh may improve Mg status in the organism. Intake of pure daidzein, genistein, or probiotic seems to have no effect on Mg concentrations in healthy rats.

Dietary marine-derived ingredients for stimulating hair cell cycle

In normal condition human hair growth occurs through three phases, anagen (growth phase included about 85 % of hairs, last from 2 to 6 years), catagen (transitional phase lasting up to 2 weeks) and telogen (resting phase which last from 1 to 4 months). Natural dynamics of the hair growth process can be impaired by several factors, such as genetic predisposition, hormonal disorders, aging, poor nutrition or stress, which can lead to the slowdown in the growth of hair or even hair loss. The aim of the study was to assess the hair growth promotion effect of marine-derived ingredients, hair supplement Viviscal® and its raw components (marine protein complex AminoMarC®, shark and oyster extract). Cytotoxicity, production of alkaline phosphatase and glycosaminoglycans, as well as expression of genes involved in hair cycle-related pathways were investigated using dermal papilla cells, both immortalized and primary cell lines. Tested marine compounds showed no evidence of cytotoxicity under in vitro conditions. Viviscal® significantly increased proliferation of dermal papilla cells. Moreover, tested samples stimulated cells to produce alkaline phosphatase and glycosaminoglycans. Increased expression of hair cell cycle-related genes was also observed. The obtained results indicate that marine-derived ingredients stimulate hair growth through anagen activation.

Action Mechanism of Extracts from Cerasus serrulata Flower for Hair-Blacking in C57BL/6 Mice

Background

Hair color retention and rejuvenation have recently emerged as a new research hot spot, with many studies focused on developing treatments to prevent premature greying.

Aim

This study is aimed to explore the hair-blacking effects and possible mechanisms of Cerasus serrulata flower extracts (CSE) using a C57BL/6 premature greying mouse model.

Materials and Methods

The variations in hair follicle number, hair follicle depth and cortical thickness were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The quantity changes of melanocytes were also evaluated using Masson-Fontana Melanin staining. The relative abundance of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), β-catenin and tyrosinase transcripts following transformed growth were further quantified using RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. The changes in protein level expression of β-catenin, VEGF and tyrosinase were also evaluated by western blot.

Results

The β-catenin and VEGF expression were significantly up-regulated in skin tissues treated with C. serrulata extracts, promoting hair growth and blackening.

Conclusion

CSE can promote the efficient hair-blacking likely via the VEGF pathway, making it a potential therapeutic candidate for treating premature greying.

An overview of the genetic aspects of hair loss and its connection with nutrition

Hair loss is a widespread concern in dermatology clinics, affecting both men's and women's quality of life. Hair loss can have many different causes, which are critical to identify in order to provide appropriate treatment. Hair loss can happen due to many variables, such as genetic factors or predisposition, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, skin problems, hair growth disorders, poor diet, hormonal problems, certain internal diseases, drug use, stress and depression, cosmetic factors, childbirth, and the chemotherapy process. Treatment for hair loss varies depending on the type of alopecia, deficiency, or excess of structures such as vitamins and minerals, and also on hair and skin structure. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by low amounts of saturated fat, animal protein, and high amounts of unsaturated fat, fiber, polyphenols, and antioxidants. The main nutrients found in the Mediterranean Diet are rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory components. It also has an important place in hair loss treatment, since recently treatment strategies have included polyphenols and unsaturated oils more and more frequently. The goal of this work was to review published articles examining alopecia and its types, the many micronutrients that affect alopecia, and the role of the Mediterranean diet in alopecia. The literature shows that little is known about hair loss, nutritional factors, and diet, and that the data collected are conflicting. Given these differences, research into the function of diet and nutrition in the treatment of baldness is a dynamic and growing topic.

Study on osteoinductive activity of biotin film by low-energy electron beam deposition

Biotin film was prepared by low-energy electron beam deposition (LEBD). The molecular structure, chemical composition and micromorphology of the biotin film were investigated by ¹HNMR, FTIR, XPS, AFM and SEM. The results showed the molecular structure of a monolayer of biotin film is fully consistent with the molecular structure of the initial biotin powders. The contact angle test showed that the biotin film exhibit good hydrophilicity. The release kinetics of biotin film was tested by UV-Vis method. It was found that the film was almost completely released in about two weeks. The cell viability of MC3T3-E1 cells on the surface of the biotin film was attaining 100.54 ± 1.7% (P < 0.05), showing excellent biocompatibility and biosafety. Titanium implant with surface of biotin film was implanted into the femoral head of rabbits as experimental group. The animals were euthanized after four weeks. Compared with the control group, mature lamellar bone formation was observed with dense trabecular bone, and the expression of Coll-I, Runx2 and BMP-2 was better. The results showed that the repair effect of bone defect in the experimental group was excellent.

Evaluation of the safety and effectiveness of intradermal administration of QR678 Neo® hair growth factor formulation: A phase-IV, open-label, single-arm multi-ethnicity clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Intradermal administration of QR678 Neo^® hair re-growth factor formulation has already proven its effectiveness and safety in treating androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss.

AIM

This study aims to evaluate effectiveness and safety of hair re-growth factor formulation at multiple centers for reduction of hair fall and regrowth of hair in androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An open-label, prospective, and interventional study was carried out at multiple centers of different countries. A total of 2428 patients with androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss within the age range of 18-65 years were included in the study. Hair pull test, global photographic assessment, videomicroscopic assessment tests were performed at the beginning, after fourth and eighth sessions, and self-assessment through questionnaire related to satisfaction and side effects was carried out at beginning and at after eight session.

RESULTS

Hair pull test was positive in only 12% of the patients after eight sessions. Beneficial results were noted in the global assessment score (mean-6) after fourth session and eighth session (mean-8). Huge improvement was noted in terminal hair count, vellus hair count, and hair density after eighth sessions. Also, with self-assessment score, a higher satisfaction score was noted. On long-term follow-up as well, no side effects were noted.

CONCLUSION

Intradermal administration of QR678 Neo^® is an innovative, efficacious, and safe technique for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss.

Vitamin deficiencies/hypervitaminosis and the skin

Vitamins are an indispensable food source and important owing to the enzyme cofactor and catalytic roles they play in the body. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, are stored in the body and can cause problems with their excessive accumulation. Other vitamins rarely accumulate in the body because they dissolve in water and are excreted through the kidneys. Alcoholism, strict diets, insufficient parental nutrition, and gastrointestinal absorption problems may be included in the causes of vitamin deficiencies. Although clinical findings of vitamin deficiencies display different characteristics depending on the vitamins, the signs that generally occur are cutaneous pigmentation, pigmentation on mucous membranes, palmoplantar keratoderma characterized by fissures, palmar streaking, yellow streaking on the nails, nail layering, and intranail hemorrhage.

Bariatric Surgery-Induced Telogen Effluvium (Bar SITE): Case Report and a Review of Hair Loss Following Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a potential modality for the management of obesity. Bariatric patients may experience skin disorders and hair loss postoperatively. A 24-year-old woman with polycystic ovarian syndrome-associated obesity successfully underwent bariatric surgery. Within seven weeks after surgery, she developed diffuse and progressive hair loss, characteristic of telogen effluvium. Alopecia following bariatric surgery may be acute in onset, occurring within the first three months and often associated with telogen effluvium. In addition, bariatric surgery postoperative hair loss may be the result of nutritional deficiencies; in this setting, it is often chronic in onset, occurring six months after surgery. Also, hair loss in bariatric patients may be multifactorial in etiology. We introduced an acronym to facilitate the description of patients who experience bariatric surgery-induced telogen effluvium: Bar SITE.

Microscopical discrimination of human head hairs sharing a mitochondrial haplogroup

In forensic analyses, determining the level of consensus among examiners for hair comparison conclusions and ancestry identifications is important for assessing the scientific validity of microscopical hair examinations. Here, we present data from an interlaboratory study on the accuracy of microscopical hair comparisons among a subset of experienced hair examiners currently analyzing hair in forensic laboratories across the United States. We examined how well microscopical analysis of hair can reliably be used to differentiate hair samples, many of which were macroscopically similar. Using cut hair samples, many sharing similar macroscopic and microscopic features, collected from individuals who share the same mitochondrial haplogroup as an indication of genetic relatedness, we tested multiple aspects that could impact hair comparisons. This research tested the extent to which morphological features related to ancestry and hair length influence conclusions. Microscopical hair examinations yielded accurate assessments of inclusion/exclusion relative to the reference samples among 85% of the pairwise comparisons. We found shorter hairs had reduced levels of accuracy and hairs from populations examiners were not familiar with may have impacted their ability to resolve features. The reliability of ancestry determinations is not yet clear, but we found indications that the existing categories are only somewhat related to current ethnic and genetic variation. Our results provide support for the continued utility of microscopical comparison of hairs within forensic laboratories and to advocate for a combined analytical approach using both microscopical analysis and mtDNA data on all forensic analyses of hair.

Evaluation of efficacy of QR 678 and QR678 neo hair growth factor formulation for the treatment of female pattern alopecia in patients with PCOS-A prospective study

BACKGROUND

Hair is an essential identity of women. Femininity, sexuality, attractiveness, and personality are symbolically linked to a woman's hair. Female pattern hair loss is found in 20%-30% of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

AIM

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of QR678^® and QR678 Neo^® therapy in the treatment of female alopecia with PCOS.

METHOD

A total of 20 females diagnosed with PCOS in the age 25-50 years, with complaints of female pattern alopecia with Ludwig, grades I, and II were selected for the study. At each visit, 1.5 ml solution of QR678^® was injected in the scalp skin of patients. A total of eight sessions were performed at an interval of 3 week each. All the patients were evaluated with standard global photography at baseline, 4th and 8th session, and 2 months after 8th session.

RESULT

Marked improvement was seen in the global photographic assessment score (mean = 8) which was maintained for over 1 year. In videomicroscopic assessment, after four sessions the patients had 8.07 fewer vellus hair, 6.07 more terminal hair, and average hair shaft diameter was 0.82 μm wider. After eight sessions, they had 11.66 fewer vellus hair, 13.77 more terminal hair, and hair shaft diameter was 2.86 μm wider than at baseline.

CONCLUSION

Intra-dermal injections of QR 678^® hair growth factor formulation is an effective option for female pattern alopecia with PCOS. This is the first of its kind study using QR678^® and QR678 Neo^® in PCOS patients.

Determinants of anthropometric characteristics of under-five children in internally displaced persons´ camps in Abuja municipal area council, Abuja, Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

displacement predisposes to deprivation and hunger and consequently malnutrition. In Nigeria, information on anthropometric characteristics and associated factors among displaced under-five children is important to strengthen strategies to ameliorate malnutrition and promote child health. This study was conducted to identify the determinants on anthropometric indices among under-five children in internally displaced persons' camps in Abuja, Nigeria.

METHODS

this cross-sectional study involved 317 mother-child (0-59 months) pairs selected using two-stage simple random sampling technique. Information on socio-demographic, care practices (infant feeding, immunization, deworming) and anthropometric characteristics of index children was obtained using semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Weight and length/height were assessed using standard procedure and analysed using World Health Organization (WHO) Anthro software. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression at p<0.05.

RESULTS

median age was 24 months, 50.8% were male and 42.3% were delivered at health facility. Only 45.4% were exclusively breastfed, 28.8% were fed complementary foods too early, 45.4% were dewormed in the preceding six months and 43.9% had complete/up-to-date immunisation. Prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting was 42%, 41% and 29.3%, respectively. Poor anthropometric indices were higher among male than female children, except wasting. Having good anthropometric index was 2.5 times higher among children <12 months than children ≥37 months (CI: 1.08-5.8), 2.4 times higher among 1st birth order than 5th orders (CI: 0.19-0.93), 1.7 times higher among female than male children (CI: 1.08-2.82).

CONCLUSION

malnutrition is a major health problem among under-five children in internally displaced camps and major determinants include age, birth order, gender and deworming status.

Plasma Zinc Levels in Males with Androgenetic Alopecia as Possible Predictors of the Subsequent Conservative Therapy's Effectiveness

Androgenic alopecia (AGA) is the most common type of progressive hair loss in man. The search for reliable predictors of the conservative treatment’s effectiveness is an urgent problem today. Forty-eight patients with AGA, stages I–IV by the Norwood–Hamilton scale, were treated for 4 months with 5% topical minoxidil joints with corrections for trace element and vitamin imbalances. In most cases, the positive therapy’s effect was shown in the parietal but not in the occipital area, whereas that effect was observed in others. The attempts to associate the therapy’s effectiveness with initially defined genetic, hormonal, and metabolic parameters showed the absence of differences between groups with positive and negative outcomes. Among the studied nutrient parameters (Zn, Cu, Mg, Ca, Fe, and Se, as well as vitamins B12, E, D, and folic acid), differences between these groups was shown in zinc content only. The starting point from a zinc plasma level above 10 µmol/L likely provides the success of the subsequent conservative therapy and correlates with an increase in the hair density and diameter in the parietal area. The integral predictive value of the Zn plasma level was assessed as 72.3% (positive predictive value: −88%; and negative predictive value: −55%).

Functional complexity of hair follicle stem cell niche and therapeutic targeting of niche dysfunction for hair regeneration

Stem cell activity is subject to non-cell-autonomous regulation from the local microenvironment, or niche. In adaption to varying physiological conditions and the ever-changing external environment, the stem cell niche has evolved with multifunctionality that enables stem cells to detect these changes and to communicate with remote cells/tissues to tailor their activity for organismal needs. The cyclic growth of hair follicles is powered by hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs). Using HFSCs as a model, we categorize niche cells into 3 functional modules, including signaling, sensing and message-relaying. Signaling modules, such as dermal papilla cells, immune cells and adipocytes, regulate HFSC activity through short-range cell-cell contact or paracrine effects. Macrophages capacitate the HFSC niche to sense tissue injury and mechanical cues and adipocytes seem to modulate HFSC activity in response to systemic nutritional states. Sympathetic nerves implement the message-relaying function by transmitting external light signals through an ipRGC-SCN-sympathetic circuit to facilitate hair regeneration. Hair growth can be disrupted by niche pathology, e.g. dysfunction of dermal papilla cells in androgenetic alopecia and influx of auto-reacting T cells in alopecia areata and lichen planopilaris. Understanding the functions and pathological changes of the HFSC niche can provide new insight for the treatment of hair loss.

Alopecia in Belgian Blue crossbred calves: a case series

Background

Alopecia is defined as the partial or complete absence of hair from areas of the body where it normally grows. Alopecia secondary to an infectious disease or parasitic infestation is commonly seen in cattle. It can also have metabolic causes, for example in newborn calves after a disease event such as diarrhoea. In the article, the investigation of a herd problem of acquired alopecia in Belgian Blue (BB) crossbred calves is described.

Case presentation

Several BB crossbred calves had presented with moderate to severe non-pruritic alopecia in a single small herd located in Southern Germany. The referring veterinarian had ruled out infectious causes, including parasitic infection and had supplemented calves with vitamins (vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12, C, and K3) orally. Results of the diagnostic workup at the Clinic for Ruminants are presented for three affected calves and findings from a farm visit are discussed. Because of these investigations, an additional four calves were brought to the referral clinic within the first week of life, and before onset of alopecia, in order to study the course of the condition; however, these calves never developed any signs of alopecia during their clinic stay.

Conclusions

Because all other plausible differential diagnoses were ruled out during our investigation, we concluded that the documented alopecia was due to malabsorption of dietary fat and consecutive disruption of lipid metabolism leading to telogen or anagen effluvium. In this particular case, this was caused by a mixing error of milk replacer in conjunction with insufficiently tempered water. We conclude that nutritional, management or environmental factors alone can lead to moderate to severe alopecia in calves in the absence of a prior or concurrent disease event or infectious cause.

Biotin: overview of the treatment of diseases of cutaneous appendages and of hyperseborrhea

One of the most common micronutrient deficiencies with cutaneous findings is the vitamin B, also known as biotin, deficiency. Biotin deficiency may be due to congenital lack of biotinidase, or acquired following some conditions that interfere with its absorption, such as inflammatory bowel disorders, a diet too rich in avidin, magnesium deficiency, smoking habit and treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics, anticonvulsants and sulfonamides. This review highlights the role of biotin in the most common skin disorders such associated with biotin deficiency and an approach to their treatment. Biotin administration may improve the treatment of hair loss when deficiency is detected on the basis of a careful patient history, clinical examination and the determination of serum biotin levels. The use of biotin is rationale in seborrheic dermatitis as the vitamin intercepts the main metabolic pathways underlying the pathogenesis of the disease. Treatment with biotin could also be useful in comedonal acne characterized by a high rate of seborrhea, and may be helpful for acne treated with topical retinoids, contributing to the control of flaking and irritation. The tolerability of biotin is excellent and there is no risk of hypervitaminosis even in the case of high doses. It is important that administration is controlled by physicians and follows a medical diagnosis and prescription. Correct doses used in dermatological conditions are safe and are not at risk of interference with laboratory tests.

Serum biotin and zinc in male androgenetic alopecia

BACKGROUND

Male androgenetic alopecia (MAGA) is caused by the conversion of the terminal to vellus hair. Zinc is one of the most studied trace elements in hair disorders and biotin is one of the most prescribed supplement for its treatment.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to evaluate serum zinc and biotin levels in MAGA patients to answer the question if there is a value to add zinc or biotin as a supplements in the MAGA treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty MAGA patients and 60 age, sex, and body mass index-matched healthy volunteers were included. We measured serum biotin and zinc in all participants.

RESULTS

Zinc (µg/dL) was lower significantly in patients compared to controls (P = 0.01), suboptimal biotin (ng/L) levels were in patients, and within normal values in controls (P = 0.01). A positive significant correlation was found between serum zinc and serum biotin (r = 0.489, P = 0.001). Serum zinc and biotin showed a nonsignificant correlation with age and disease duration. A non-significant relation was obtained between the MAGA grades, and zinc (P = 0.485) and biotin levels (P = 0.367).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum zinc showed subnormal value and adding zinc supplement in MAGA treatment is recommended. Serum biotin showed a suboptimal level in MAGA patients that is not correlated with patients' age or disease severity. Biotin supplement in MAGA treatment may add value to hair quality and texture. We recommend future biotin evaluation in serum combined with its metabolites in MAGA patients' urine.

Relationship between Trace Elements and Premature Hair Graying

Context:

Hair is said to gray prematurely when a minimum of five gray hairs occurs before the age of 20 in fair skinned, 25 in Asians, and 30 in Africans. It may be genetically associated with autoimmune syndromes or certain environmental factors.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum level of iron, copper, and calcium and to assess their role in premature hair graying.

Subjects and Methods:

This study was carried out on 60 patients with premature hair graying (PHG) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals served as a control group. The severity of PHG was assessed by the hair whitening scoring system. Serum iron, copper, and calcium concentrations were measured using Beckman Coulter instrument and spectrophotometric method.

Results:

There was a reduction in serum levels of iron, copper, and calcium in patients with PHG in comparison with controls. There was a statistically negative significant correlation between the severity of PHG and serum iron and calcium levels. There was a negative nonsignificant correlation between body mass index and serum iron, copper, and calcium levels.

Conclusions:

Serum iron, copper, and calcium levels were reduced in association with PHG and correlated with its severity. Premature graying may be an indicator that hair is not getting enough nutrients and minerals, and supplementation with these trace elements might reverse and is expected to prevent progression of canities; however, further studies are needed to find the underlying mechanism of this relationship.

The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review

People commonly inquire about vitamin and mineral supplementation and diet as a means to prevent or manage dermatological diseases and, in particular, hair loss. Answering these queries is frequently challenging, given the enormous and conflicting evidence that exists on this subject. There are several reasons to suspect a role for micronutrients in non-scarring alopecia. Micronutrients are major elements in the normal hair follicle cycle, playing a role in cellular turnover, a frequent occurrence in the matrix cells in the follicle bulb that are rapidly dividing. Management of alopecia is an essential aspect of clinical dermatology given the prevalence of hair loss and its significant impact on patients’ quality of life. The role of nutrition and diet in treating hair loss represents a dynamic and growing area of inquiry. In this review we summarize the role of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, selenium, and zinc, in non-scarring alopecia. A broad literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar was performed in July 2018 to compile published articles that study the relationship between vitamins and minerals, and hair loss. Micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals play an important, but not entirely clear role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function. Deficiency of such micronutrients may represent a modifiable risk factor associated with the development, prevention, and treatment of alopecia. Given the role of vitamins and minerals in the hair cycle and immune defense mechanism, large double-blind placebo-controlled trials are required to determine the effect of specific micronutrient supplementation on hair growth in those with both micronutrient deficiency and non-scarring alopecia to establish any association between hair loss and such micronutrient deficiency.

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Mediterranean diet: fresh herbs and fresh vegetables decrease the risk of Androgenetic Alopecia in males

It is well established that Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) occurs in genetically predisposed individuals but little is known of its non-genetic risk factors. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of the Mediterranean diet in determining the risk of AGA. A hospital-based case-control study was conducted in the outpatient clinics of the hospital "Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, Rome, Italy". We included 104 males and 108 controls not affected by AGA. Controls were frequency matched to cases. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, smoking and diet were collected for all patients. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals. After controlling for age, education, body mass index and family history of AGA, protective effects for AGA were found for high consumption (≥ 3 times weekly) of raw vegetables (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.21-0.89) and high consumption of fresh herbs (3 or more regularly) (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.22-0.87). We suggest that some foods of the Mediterranean diet, say fresh herbs and salad, may reduce the risk of AGA onset.

The Role of Micronutrients in Alopecia Areata: A Review

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common, non-scarring form of hair loss caused by immune-mediated attack of the hair follicle. As with other immune-mediated diseases, a complex interplay between environment and genetics is thought to lead to the development of AA. Deficiency of micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals may represent a modifiable risk factor associated with development of AA. Given the role of these micronutrients in normal hair follicle development and in immune cell function, a growing number of investigations have sought to determine whether serum levels of these nutrients might differ in AA patients, and whether supplementation of these nutrients might represent a therapeutic option for AA. While current treatment often relies on invasive steroid injections or immunomodulating agents with potentially harmful side effects, therapy by micronutrient supplementation, whether as a primary modality or as adjunctive treatment, could offer a promising low-risk alternative. However, our review highlights a need for further research in this area, given that the current body of literature largely consists of small case-control studies and case reports, which preclude any definite conclusions for a role of micronutrients in AA. In this comprehensive review of the current literature, we found that serum vitamin D, zinc, and folate levels tend to be lower in patients with AA as compared to controls. Evidence is conflicting or insufficient to suggest differences in levels of iron, vitamin B12, copper, magnesium, or selenium. A small number of studies suggest that vitamin A levels may modify the disease. Though understanding of the role for micronutrients in AA is growing, definitive clinical recommendations such as routine serum level testing or therapeutic supplementation call for additional studies in larger populations and with a prospective design.

Alopecia and the metabolic syndrome

Hair loss is a common condition that affects most people at some point in their lives. It can exist as an isolated problem or with other diseases and conditions. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and its association with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) have received increasing interest since 1972, when the first link between cardiovascular risk factors and hair loss was raised. We have reviewed studies concerning the relationship between alopecia and MetS. Many studies have investigated the relationship among AGA and MetS and its individual components, particularly in men, where a disproportionately large number of these studies supports this association. AGA has also been associated with other metabolic-related conditions, including coronary artery disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, and Cushing syndrome, as well as several nutritional deficiencies, all of which have led to many clinicians advocating for the screening of MetS and cardiovascular risk factors in patients who present with AGA.

A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss

BACKGROUND

Biotin has gained commercial popularity for its claimed benefits on healthy hair and nail growth. Despite its reputation, there is limited research to support the utility of biotin in healthy individuals.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the literature on biotin efficacy in hair and nail growth.

METHODS

We conducted a PubMed search of all case reports and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) using the following terms: (biotin and hair); (biotin and supplementation and hair); (biotin supplementation); (biotin and alopecia); (biotin and nails); (biotin and dermatology), and (biotin recommendations).

RESULTS

We found 18 reported cases of biotin use for hair and nail changes. In all cases, patients receiving biotin supplementation had an underlying pathology for poor hair or nail growth. All cases showed evidence of clinical improvement after receiving biotin.

CONCLUSIONS

Though its use as a hair and nail growth supplement is prevalent, research demonstrating the efficacy of biotin is limited. In cases of acquired and inherited causes of biotin deficiency as well as pathologies, such as brittle nail syndrome or uncombable hair, biotin supplementation may be of benefit. However, we propose these cases are uncommon and that there is lack of sufficient evidence for supplementation in healthy individuals.

Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use

Patients presenting with hair loss should be screened by medical history, dietary history and physical exam for risk factors for nutrient deficiency. If warranted, laboratory studies may be performed. In patients with no risk factors, further laboratory evaluation searching for nutritional deficiencies is not warranted. For patients with nutritional deficiencies, it is clear that those deficiencies should be corrected. Further research is required to determine whether any benefit exists for nutrient supplementation in the absence of documented deficiency. At this time, patients must be informed that such research is lacking and that in fact some supplements carry the risk of worsening hair loss or the risk of toxicity.

Prevalence and spatio-temporal variation of an alopecia syndrome in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) of the southern Beaufort Sea

Alopecia (hair loss) has been observed in several marine mammal species and has potential energetic consequences for sustaining a normal core body temperature, especially for Arctic marine mammals routinely exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) rely on a thick layer of adipose tissue and a dense pelage to ameliorate convective heat loss while moving between sea ice and open water. From 1998 to 2012, we observed an alopecia syndrome in polar bears from the southern Beaufort Sea of Alaska that presented as bilaterally asymmetrical loss of guard hairs and thinning of the undercoat around the head, neck, and shoulders, which, in severe cases, was accompanied by exudation and crusted skin lesions. Alopecia was observed in 49 (3.45%) of the bears sampled during 1,421 captures, and the apparent prevalence varied by years with peaks occurring in 1999 (16%) and 2012 (28%). The probability that a bear had alopecia was greatest for subadults and for bears captured in the Prudhoe Bay region, and alopecic individuals had a lower body condition score than unaffected individuals. The cause of the syndrome remains unknown and future work should focus on identifying the causative agent and potential effects on population vital rates.

Herbal and dietary supplement use in Bangkok: a survey

BACKGROUND

People living in Asian countries including Thailand are likely to use herbal and dietary supplements (HDS). However, there is limited evidence of their usage in Thailand. The objectives of this study were to determine (1) the prevalence of HDS usage amongst a general population in Bangkok; (2) patterns of HDS use; (3) reasons why Bangkok residents use HDS.

METHODS

This cross-sectional survey recruited 400 Thai people aged 15 years or over at busy bus stops in Bangkok, Thailand, using convenience sampling. Data were collected via an interview regarding demographics, HDS usage and reasons of using HDS. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were used to analyse the prevalence and the patterns of HDS use.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HDS usage in the previous 6 months was 52%. The majority of people who took herbs used them to treat illnesses (58%), whereas the majority of people who took dietary supplements used them to promote well-being (65%). Respondents reported using HDS due to their efficacy (28%), wanting to try them (26%) and safety concerns with conventional medicines (15%).

CONCLUSIONS

Health care providers should be aware of HDS use amongst Thai residents in Bangkok. Policy makers should educate people about appropriate HDS use.

The basic science of hair biology: what are the causal mechanisms for the disordered hair follicle?

A hair disorder can be difficult to define, but patients are typically motivated to seek treatment when their hair growth patterns are significantly different from their cultural group or when growth patterns change significantly. The causes of hair disorders are many and varied, but fundamentally the disorder is a consequence of aberrant alterations of normal hair biology. The potential trigger factors for hair disorders can be attributed to inflammation, genetics, the environment, or hormones, of which the relative contributions vary for different diagnoses, between individuals, and over time. This article discusses the causal mechanisms for the disordered hair follicle.