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Caffeine (topical)

Also known as: Alpecin, caffeine shampoo

Limited EvidenceTopicalAndrogenic Alopecia

Topical stimulant that may counteract DHT suppression of hair growth in vitro.

Regrowth Potential15%
Long-Term Viability50%

Mechanism of Action

Topical caffeine penetrates hair follicles and stimulates hair shaft elongation by inhibiting phosphodiesterase, increasing cAMP levels. In vitro studies show it counteracts testosterone-induced suppression of hair matrix keratinocyte proliferation.

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