Nioxin for Hair Loss

Nioxin is a hair care system of cleansers, conditioners and leave-in treatments. It is often mistakenly believed to stop hair loss; however, the FDA has not approved it for this use. In addition, the manufacturer specifically states that Nioxin is not a hair loss product. What Nioxin does do is work to rid the scalp of excess sebum, product buildup and other residues that can damage follicles and lead to thinning hair. By cleaning and nourishing hair's roots, the products may positively influence its overall appearance.

Basics

Excess sebum on the scalp can contain dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, a natural byproduct of testosterone. DHT is believed to have a negative effect on hair follicles and growth, says Dr. D.J. Verret, author of the "Patient Guide to Hair Loss and Hair Restoration. In short, DHT can lead to thinning hair.

According to Nioxin product information, the system is formulated to wash away DHT, along with environmental residues and product buildup. Though some may conclude that this means Nioxin prevents thinning hair, neither scientific evidence nor Nioxin itself supports this claim. Furthermore, there is no proof that Nioxin cleansers are more effective at removing DHT than any other shampoo.

Types

Nioxin offers eight different scalp and hair care systems. Each system is formulated for a specific type of hair and comes with shampoo, conditioner and a leave-in treatment.

As the first step in the three-part regimen, the shampoo removes DHT and other damaging residues from the scalp. Step two is the conditioner, or Scalp Therapy, which uses a combination of essential oils, antioxidants and enzymatic complexes to moisturize and refresh skin and hair. The final step, Scalp Treatment, is a leave-in product that protects the scalp from further buildup.

Side Effects

Some individuals experience a temporary increase in hair loss after beginning the Nioxin system. This side effect is normal and only affects hairs that were already set to fall out naturally.

Healthy hair grows in a cyclical pattern of growth, transition and rest. Hairs remain in the resting phase for two to three months before falling out, prompting the cycle to begin again. But when sebum and other residues build up, hairs in the telogen phase can become trapped and unable to shed. Nioxin works to wash away this buildup; trapped hair is suddenly freed, giving the appearance of excess hair fall.

Considerations

According to Nioxin.com, independent market research shows that 9 out of 10 people experience a "thickening effect" with daily product use. However, scientists on The Beauty Brains say that while hair might seem thicker, it is not actually thicker. The leave-in scalp treatment contains ingredients that can coat the hair, making it slightly stiffer and giving the illusion of greater body.

Safety

Nioxin products are formulated for daily application and can be used indefinitely. Furthermore, discontinuing use does not cause any known side effects. Nioxin is generally considered safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women, individuals undergoing chemotherapy and those with genetic hair loss; however, consult with a professional before use.