Prostaglandin Analogs for Hair: What the Research Shows

Prostaglandin analogs are drugs such as bimatoprost, which is approved for eyelash hypotrichosis and is also used for eye conditions. A 2023 meta-analysis of six randomized trials found that topical prostaglandin analogs improved hair length and density in people with hair loss versus placebo, with no significant difference in adverse events. They are drugs, and the research on scalp hair is early.

Here's what the research shows about prostaglandin analogs and hair, how prostaglandin D2 is different, and the safety questions raised.

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Key Takeaways

• A meta-analysis of six randomized trials found topical prostaglandin analogs significantly improved hair length and density versus placebo, with no significant difference in adverse events. The best dose and frequency need further study.
• Prostaglandin D2, a different prostaglandin, inhibits hair growth and is elevated in the bald scalp of men with androgenetic alopecia.
• A review argues that eyelash trials of bimatoprost may have underreported application discomfort and prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy.
• These are medicines. Talk to a doctor before using one.

What Are Prostaglandin Analogs?

Prostaglandin analogs are synthetic compounds that mimic natural prostaglandins. They are used in glaucoma treatment, and bimatoprost 0.03% is FDA-approved for eyelash hypotrichosis.

Do They Help Hair?

In trials, they improved hair measures, including eyelashes and eyebrows, compared with placebo. For scalp hair, the evidence is early.

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What To Know

• They are medicines, and a decision for you and your doctor.
• Side effects matter. Reviews raise gaps in what we know about eyelash product safety.
• Don't confuse them with cosmetic serums. Check what a product actually contains.

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What The Research Shows

Trials Of Topical Prostaglandin Analogs

A systematic review and meta-analysis of six randomized trials, all comparing prostaglandin analogs with placebo, in hair, eyelashes and eyebrows, found they significantly improved hair length and density (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in adverse events. The authors said the best dose and frequency need further study (Jiang et al., 2023).

Prostaglandin D2: The Opposite Effect

Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) is elevated in bald scalp compared with haired scalp in men with androgenetic alopecia. PGD2 inhibited hair growth in explanted human follicles and when applied to mice, and the effect required the receptor GPR44. The authors suggested the PGD2-GPR44 pathway as a potential treatment target (Garza et al., 2012).

Safety Questions

Bimatoprost 0.03% was approved by the FDA for eyelash hypotrichosis in 2008. A review found the literature is dominated by industry-sponsored trials, and that study design choices may have systematically underreported application discomfort and prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy. The risk of increased iris pigmentation remains inadequately investigated, so patients need education and monitoring (Steinsapir & Steinsapir, 2021).

See also: Kukui Nut Oil for Hair: What the Research Shows · Ashwagandha for Hair: What the Research Shows

For the ingredients with real evidence and how to choose one, see our guide to the best hair growth serums.

For how minoxidil and finasteride work, their results and side effects, see our guide to minoxidil and finasteride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do prostaglandin analogs grow hair?

In a meta-analysis of six placebo-controlled trials, they improved hair length and density. Scalp evidence is early.

Are prostaglandin analogs safe?

Trials found no significant difference in adverse events, but a review says eyelash trials may have underreported some side effects. Talk to a doctor.

Where do I get a prostaglandin analog?

That is a question for your doctor or pharmacist. Be sure of what a product contains.

References

1. Jiang S, Hao Z, Qi W, et al. The efficacy of topical prostaglandin analogs for hair loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Med (Lausanne). 2023. PubMed
2. Garza LA, Liu Y, Yang Z, et al. Prostaglandin D2 inhibits hair growth and is elevated in bald scalp of men with androgenetic alopecia. Sci Transl Med. 2012. PubMed
3. Steinsapir KD, Steinsapir SMG. Revisiting the Safety of Prostaglandin Analog Eyelash Growth Products. Dermatol Surg. 2021. PubMed