What is PP405?

PP405 was originally developed by researchers at the University of California (UCLA). It is now being further developed by researchers at Pelage Pharmaceuticals. This company was founded after the discovery to further develop the find and turn it into a commercial product. The discovery is rooted in stem cell research and promises to reactivate the cells in our hair follicles. This makes it work differently from the most well-known products such as minoxidil and finasteride.

Where minoxidil mainly improves blood flow and finasteride blocks DHT, PP405 focuses more on the stem cells in the hair follicles. In hereditary hair loss, these cells become “dormant” and eventually disappear. Under the influence of DHT, this hormone causes hair follicles to gradually produce less and less hair. This is a slow process, so when a hair follicle stops producing hair, it does not mean that it has disappeared completely. That is why it is called “awakening dormant hair follicles”. PP405 could reactivate them, thereby potentially producing new hair. However, it would be an oversimplification to say that a product such as PP405 can simply revive all hair follicles and restore your full head of hair. Depending on the extent of hair loss, your hair follicles may still be present in your skin. In advanced hair loss, the follicles have completely disappeared. Also, this drug will not help with every type of hair loss. For example, it will not help with the condition scarring alopecia. This is a form of hair loss in which the hair follicles are irreparably damaged. They cannot be “reactivated”.

Linn Minoxidil 5% spray 3-pack (3x100 ml)

The form of Minoxidil we recommend for most men. The 5% concentration has been shown to be more effective than 2% in stimulating hair growth. Minoxidil can provide visible hair growth after 4 months with effective use.

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Panthrix hair growth serum (Redensyl)

Redensyl, an active ingredient with two patented molecules known for their ability to restore inactive hair cells. The serum contains highly efficient active ingredients that stimulate blood circulation and deliver vital vitamins and nutrients to the hair follicles. This serum stimulates hair growth and combats hereditary hair loss.

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Revita hair growth shampoo (205 ml)

One of the most well-known and effective shampoos to stimulate hair growth and combat hair loss. The shampoo also promotes a healthy scalp and thicker, healthier hair. It is suitable for both men and women predisposed to hereditary/non-hereditary hair loss.

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Initial test results: what do we know so far?

The first test (a so-called phase 2a study) was conducted on 78 men and women with hereditary hair loss (alopecia androgenetica). Participants applied PP405 or a placebo to their scalp once a day for four weeks. The effect was then monitored for another eight weeks.

The most important results according to the manufacturer:

• Safety: There were no major side effects or absorption of the drug into the body. This is good news for a new product.
• Effect: In men with more advanced baldness, 31% showed an increase in hair density of more than 20%. This did not occur in the placebo (dummy drug) group.

But... there are still many questions

Although the initial results are interesting, we also want to be clear about the limitations of this study:

• Small group and short time frame: The test lasted only four weeks, with a short follow-up period. This is very short for a hair growth product, as a hair cycle usually lasts months.
• Few details shared: No photos, graphs, or average results have been published yet. As a result, we do not know how strong the effect really was.
• Not yet clear whether it is permanent: Because the treatment stopped after four weeks, we do not know whether the new hair remained or fell out again.
• More research needed: No large follow-up study has been started yet. A phase 3 study with more participants and a longer treatment duration may not be available until 2026.

Why are we following this development?

Research into hair loss solutions is ongoing. The company or researcher who finds a new way to tackle baldness could become very successful. But that also means that big promises about breakthroughs and new methods must be viewed critically.

At Hairgivers, we are here for people who are dealing with hair loss. We know how much impact this can have on your self-confidence and daily life. That is why we are always looking for new solutions, but ones that are realistic, safe, and proven.

PP405 works in an innovative way: via stem cells in the hair follicle. This could be a great addition to existing remedies, which do not work for everyone. Especially if it really does produce thick, permanent hair rather than just fine vellus hairs. In the meantime, there are good, scientifically proven hair growth products available that you can start using now.

That is why we are keeping a close eye on this development. However, we believe it is important not to raise false hopes at this stage, as it will be several years before this product is available on the market.

Our conclusion: promising, but not yet proven

PP405 sounds like a promising product, especially since it works differently than existing products. The initial results give a little hope, but there is still a lot that is unclear.

We are following developments with interest, but are waiting for more evidence before recommending it. For now, it is especially important that people with hair loss use good, proven options and get honest advice.