Topical Arginine for Hair Loss?

Article by HairlossTalk.com

L-Arginine as a Topical Hair loss Treatment

L-Arginine

Some have experimented with topical L-arginine as well. However, there are some important considerations involved here. L-arginine is soluble in water, but only slightly soluble in hot alcohol. Accordingly, best results will be obtained by using a high water content vehicle. Dermovan cream would be an ideal candidate. Dermovan is an oil-in-water emulsion that is known as a blank cream, since it is merely a carrier vehicle. It is also considered a vanishing cream since it disappears rapidly into the skin due to its high water content-hence the "van" portion of its name. Water is an outstanding penetration enhancer, which is another reason to use such a vehicle in this case. A cream containing 2-5% L-arginine would likely be a reasonable experimental strength. This translates roughly into 40-100 mg per half teaspoon.

Is topical L-arginine effective, though? Of course, it is not an FDA approved treatment and never will be due to financial considerations. But those wishing to experiment can try it and see for themselves. Don't expect miracles. Remember that even the standard FDA approved treatments only produce modest results at best. L-arginine is a safe treatment, however, and is relatively inexpensive, so there is little risk in trying it if you are so inclined.

A word of Caution...

One caveat is that people with a propensity for cold sores should ingest supplemental L-arginine with care since it may encourage their development in sensitive individuals. The same would be true of ahigh L-arginine diet. Most people do not have this problem, however. On the other hand, there is some interesting scientific data suggesting why it may be beneficial for hair growth and maintenance. Self-experimentation will provide the only true test for any given person, of course.

Who should probably skip using it? Those who are satisfied with their results or prefer to stick to the standard approved treatments. Who might try it instead? Those who feel experimental and like to tinker with their own custom treatments and who wish to see if they can improve upon their present results. Of course, it is also available ready-made for purchase in a few products, as mentioned at the outset. In addition, those who cannot tolerate minoxidil well due to water retention or racing heart symptoms might find a good alternative in L-arginine.

Note that just because minoxidil serves as an NO analog does not mean that one should cast aside minoxidil and replace it with L-arginine. Always approach your treatment program with discernment and caution. It's best to consider L-arginine as a possible adjunctive treatment rather than as a replacement for something else.

Used internally, L-arginine may offer other benefits apart from general hair considerations when taken in sufficient amounts to elevate NO. Things positively affected by enhanced NO include hypertension, sexual function, and many others. As research continues in this area, still more benefits may be realized from nitric oxide and the amino acid L-arginine from which it is produced.

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