A one-year exploratory randomized, controlled, multicentric pilot study evaluating the efficacy and tolerance of an anti-hair loss serum containing Silybum marianum extract, manganese PCA, and Lespedeza capitata extract following hair transplantation in men with androgenic alopecia.

INTRODUCTION: Hair transplantation is a therapeutic option for androgenic alopecia (AGA) with visible results after 1 year. Post-transplant care may aid graft survival and growth, though few studies have assessed its efficacy. We evaluated the long-term tolerance and clinical efficacy of a hair serum containing two plant-derived active extracts (Silybum marianum, Lespedeza capitata) and manganese PCA, in men undergoing AGA post-hair transplant.

METHODS: In this 1-year exploratory randomized controlled trial, hair transplant patients received either study serum with neutral shampoo or shampoo alone. Tolerance and efficacy were evaluated by both investigators and patients at 0.5 month (M0.5) then M1, M3, M6, M9 and M12, depending on parameters, compared to baseline (before hair transplant).

RESULTS: Thirty men [median age: 40.0 (26.0-64.0) years], 15 per group, were included. Daily use of the serum on the recipient area post hair-transplant in men with AGA improved scalp tightness at M1 and discomfort perceived as painful at M0.5 (p = NS) and M1 (p < 0.05 vs. controls), as well as hair condition at M1 evaluated by patients (p < 0.05). The global aspect of the scalp from M1 to M12 and hair growth from M6 to M12 evaluated by investigators showed more pronounced and rapid improvement vs. controls (p < 0.05). Serum tolerance and acceptability by patients were excellent.

DISCUSSION: This first randomized controlled pilot trial suggested that this serum enhances global scalp aspect and hair state and appears to promote hair growth after transplantation, thus acting as a safe, dermocosmetic adjuvant for optimal long-term post-procedure hair care.