Gencor, a supplier of branded ingredients, has reported positive results from a pilot, open-label, randomised, parallel and in-vitro study in the Journal of Cosmetology & Trichology that assessed the efficacy and safety of an Ageratum Conyzoides formulation on hair loss. 

Ageratum Conyzoides L., also known as “goat weed”, is an annual herb belonging to the family Asteraceae. It’s traditionally used in the treatment of skin disorders, ulcers, burn wounds, diarrhea, infectious diseases, headaches and gynaecological diseases. 

“Hair loss is a billion-dollar industry with projections showing continued growth,” said Chase Shryoc, VP of Sales & Business Development for Gencor. “This is an exciting next step for Gencor as we launch our first innovation in the cosmetology market.” 

The in-vitro study was aimed to determine the effect of the extract on the gene expression of 5α-reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a major driver of AGA, or androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) along with another likely cause, the release of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) in human hair dermal papilla cells (HHDPC). 

In the open label study, 28 otherwise healthy males and females over 18 years of age exhibiting pattern baldness received either a 0.5% or 1% strength A. conyzoides gel formulation to be applied topically twice per day for 8 weeks. Hair growth was measured by temporal recession distance and participants quality of life was assessed by the Hair Distress questionnaire. 

Results showed 64% of men and 100% of women self-reported an improvement in hair loss symptoms associated with application of the formulation at 1% and 0.5% strength, twice daily for 8 weeks. Over 65% of both men and women indicated an improvement in their hair-related quality of life. 

In the in vitro study, the extract significantly inhibited prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) release and 5α-reductase expression, Gencor says, both of which are linked to suppression of hair growth and AGA, in HHDPC.