Hair loss treatment: The fish-based supplement proven to treat thinning hair
Hair loss treatments that are non-invasive and inexpensive are hard to come by. This scarcity often drives people to pursue cosmetic options to correct their hair loss. If you are currently experiencing thinning hair and looking for a natural solution, evidence can steer you towards a couple of options.
When shopping for supplements, research recommends looking out for those that contain marine protein, a protein found in fish and mollusks.
A three-month study published in the journal Dermatology Research evaluated the ability of an extra-strength marine protein supplement to promote hair growth and decrease shedding in women with self-perceived thinning hair.
The study assessed the ability of the marine extract to promote terminal hair growth in adult women with self-perceived thinning hair associated with poor diet, stress, hormonal influences, or abnormal menstrual cycles.
Adult women with thinning hair were randomised to receive a marine protein supplement or placebo twice daily for 90 days.
READ MORE: Hair loss treatment: A medicinal plant proven to help increase blood flow for hair growth
What is a hair-pull test?
A pull test is a simple test that measures how much hair you shed under stress.
How does it work? According to an article published in the International Journal of Trichology, approximately 20-60 hairs are grasped between the thumb, index and middle fingers from the base of the hairs near the scalp and firmly, but not forcefully, tugged away from the scalp.
The extraction of less than three hairs is considered a negative pull test, whereas extraction of greater than six is considered a positive test.
A positive test constitutes active shedding so ideally you want to see a negative result.
Other ways to treat hair loss
According to Mayo Clinic, one of the main over-the-counter hair loss treatments is minoxidil.
“It comes as a liquid or foam that you rub into your scalp daily,” explains the health body.
At least six months of treatment is required to prevent further hair loss and to start hair regrowth, notes the health site.
There are a number of drawbacks to taking this medication, cautions the NHS.
Source: Daily Express
