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At Roots by Genetic Arts, we understand that hair loss is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including genetics, hormones, and lifestyle. While traditional monotherapies like minoxidil or finasteride have shown effectiveness, a combination approach can often provide even better results for many individuals.

Why Custom Combination Therapies Are More Effective

Combination therapies target multiple pathways involved in hair loss, providing a more comprehensive treatment strategy. For instance, combining finasteride, which reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, with minoxidil, which stimulates hair follicles by increasing blood flow, can yield superior results compared to using either treatment alone. 

The Role of Relevant Biomarkers

Hair loss treatments are not one-size-fits-all. Individual responses to treatments like finasteride or minoxidil can vary  due to genetic differences. Relevant biomarkers, such as those related to DHT sensitivity or how your body metabolizes certain compounds, can play a role in determining a beneficial treatment for you. 

For instance:

• SULT1A1: This enzyme is crucial for the activation of minoxidil. Genetic variations in the SULT1A1 gene can influence how effectively minoxidil promotes hair growth. If someone has a lower activity level of this enzyme, minoxidil might not be as effective.
• SRD5A2/1: These genes are involved in the metabolism of testosterone to DHT. Individuals with variations in these genes might experience different levels of DHT and thus respond differently to finasteride.
•  ACE:Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) variants are associated with increased plasma levels of angiotensin 2, an extremely potent vasoconstrictor. A customer with these genetic expression may benefit from caffeine.

   

Pharmacogenetic Testing for a Custom Approach

At Roots by Genetic Arts, we utilize pharmacogenetic testing and a comprehensive questionnaire to help customize hair loss treatments. This testing analyzes various genes related to hair loss treatments, and utilizing the intake questionnaire, we’re able to provide a custom topicals with multiple active ingredients to give you benefit. 

Some Ingredients and Their Benefits

1. Minoxidil
   • Mechanism: Minoxidil works by opening potassium channels in the cells of hair follicles, which enhances blood flow and nutrient delivery to the hair follicle. This increased blood flow helps to enlarge miniaturized hair follicles and prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, resulting in thicker, healthier hair growth.
2. Finasteride
   • Mechanism: Finasteride inhibits the Type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). High levels of DHT are associated with the miniaturization of hair follicles in androgenetic alopecia. By reducing DHT levels, finasteride prevents the shrinking of hair follicles, thereby promoting the growth of thicker hair.
3. Dutasteride
   • Pathway & Mechanism: Similar to finasteride, dutasteride inhibits both Type I and Type II 5-alpha reductase enzymes, making it more effective at reducing DHT levels throughout the body. This broader inhibition results in a more substantial decrease in DHT, providing a potent solution for preventing hair follicle miniaturization and promoting regrowth.
4. Latanoprost
   • Mechanism: Latanoprost, a prostaglandin F2α analog, binds to prostaglandin receptors in the hair follicle. This binding action prolongs the anagen phase and increases the size of the hair follicles, promoting the growth of thicker and darker hair.
5. Cetirizine
   • Mechanism: Cetirizine is an antihistamine that blocks histamine receptors, reducing inflammation and potentially calming the scalp. Reduced inflammation can help prevent hair follicle damage and promote a healthier scalp environment, conducive to hair growth.
6. Spironolactone
   • Mechanism: Spironolactone acts as an anti-androgen by blocking androgen receptors, which reduces the effects of androgens like testosterone on the scalp. This reduction is particularly beneficial for women experiencing hair loss due to high androgen levels.
7. Caffeine
   • Mechanism: Caffeine may help hair follicles stay in the growing phase longer, which can lead to longer, stronger hair. Increasing blood circulation: Caffeine can improve blood flow to hair follicles, which can help deliver nutrients and oxygen.
8. Tretinoin/Retinoic Acid
   • Mechanism: Tretinoin increases cell turnover in the scalp, which helps remove dead skin cells and improve the scalp environment for hair growth. Additionally, it enhances the absorption of other topical treatments, such as minoxidil, making them more effective.
9. Melatonin
   • Mechanism: Melatonin acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation around the hair follicles. These protective effects help maintain a healthier scalp and prolong the growth phase of hair follicles.
10. Vitamin D
    • Mechanism: Vitamin D plays a role in hair follicle cycling by influencing the differentiation of keratinocytes, the cells that make up a large portion of hair. It can help regulate the growth and shedding phases, reducing hair shedding and promoting regrowth.

 

Roots by Genetic Arts has can create a custom topical for your hair growth needs. Start your hair regrowth treatment today with Roots by Genetic Arts!