Marine proteins led to “significant improvements” in a trial, onion juice led to “full hair regrowth” in some places and pumpkin seed oil “is a promising treatment” for the top of the head, the study authors said.
In her concluding remarks, the study’s lead author Anna-Marie Hosking said: “There are a variety of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) on the market for alopecia; however, only a few are backed by strong clinical evidence.
“Clinicians should be aware of these products, the marketing strategies used to promote said products, expected clinical outcomes, and side effect profiles to ensure accurate patient counselling.”
She continued: “In addition, CAMs may cause further scalp inflammation, such as irritant or contact dermatitis, leading to more hair loss.