Austin, TX—Branded ingredients supplier Gencor has reported positive results from a study published in theJournal of Cosmetology & Trichology.The pilot, open-label, randomized, parallel and in-vitro study assessed the efficacy and safety of an Ageratum conyzoidesformulation on hair loss.

Also known as “goat weed” or “billy goat weed," A. conyzoides L. is an annual herb traditionally used in the treatment of skin disorders, ulcers, burn wounds, diarrhea, infectious diseases, headaches, and gynecological concerns, Gencor explained in a press release. The new study looked at hair loss, aiming to determine the effect of an extract of the herb 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).

Overview: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; participants' quality of life was assessed by the Hair Distress Questionnaire.

Findings:64% of men and 100% of women self-reported an improvement in their hair loss symptoms associated with application of the A. conyzoides gel formulation at 1% and 0.5% strength. Over 65% of both men and women indicated an improvement in their hair-related quality of life.

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

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

Regarding the findings, Shryoc added: "We couldn’t be happier with the results from these studies. We are encouraged by what we have seen and are excited to continue research in this area."