Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) has established its potential for positive effects on promoting hair regrowth and reducing hair loss, particularly in the context of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Similar to finasteride, the primary mechanism underlying its efficacy lies in its inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase (5αR) enzymes. These enzymes catalyse the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) within hair follicles. Elevated levels of DHT are associated with the miniaturisation of hair follicles, a hallmark of AGA.

Saw palmetto's inhibition of 5αR consequently leads to a reduction in DHT levels, mitigating its adverse effects on hair follicles. By impeding the conversion of testosterone to DHT, saw palmetto aims to maintain the structural integrity and normal functioning of hair follicles. Additionally, saw palmetto possesses anti-androgenic properties, potentially further modulating the hormonal milieu within the scalp.

Research suggests that saw palmetto may also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which can be particularly relevant in the context of AGA, as inflammation is implicated in the progression of hair loss. Furthermore, saw palmetto may contribute to improved blood circulation in the scalp, facilitating the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, thereby promoting an environment conducive to hair regrowth.

Caffeine, a methylxanthine compound, has garnered attention for its potential efficacy in treating hair loss. Scientific investigations propose that caffeine, when topically applied, may exert positive effects on hair health through multiple mechanisms. Primarily, caffeine is known to inhibit phosphodiesterase enzymes, leading to elevated levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) within hair follicles. This increase in cAMP has been associated with the stimulation of hair keratinocyte proliferation, extending the duration of the anagen (growth) phase. Furthermore, caffeine's vasoactive properties promote enhanced blood circulation when applied to the scalp, facilitating improved nutrient and oxygen delivery to hair follicles. As a result, caffeine emerges as a compelling candidate for inclusion in hair care formulations,

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, has been studied for its potential positive effects on promoting hair regrowth and reducing hair loss. The biological activities of niacinamide that contribute to its efficacy in this context involve its role as a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a critical coenzyme involved in various cellular processes.

Niacinamide's impact on cellular metabolism is of particular relevance to hair follicle function. By enhancing cellular energy production through the NAD+ pathway, niacinamide supports the energetic demands of actively growing hair follicles, potentially extending the duration of the anagen (growth) phase and optimizing the overall hair growth cycle.

Moreover, niacinamide exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may be pivotal in addressing conditions associated with hair loss. Inflammation within the scalp, whether due to environmental factors or underlying conditions, can contribute to hair follicle damage and subsequent hair loss. Niacinamide's ability to modulate inflammatory responses may, therefore, play a role in maintaining a conducive environment for hair regrowth.

Additionally, niacinamide has been suggested to contribute to improved blood circulation. Enhanced blood flow to the scalp can support the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, promoting their health and functionality.

While the body of scientific evidence supporting niacinamide's specific role in hair regrowth is still evolving, studies and research indicate its potential as a valuable component in formulations aimed at reducing hair loss and promoting overall hair health.

Trifolium pratense is currently under scrutiny for its potential beneficial impact on hair loss. This botanical entity is enriched with isoflavones, notably formononetin and biochanin A, which exhibit estrogenic activity and are implicated in modulating hormonal pathways. These isoflavones, through their interactions with key molecular players, may contribute to the preservation of hair follicles and stimulation of hair regrowth. Moreover, red clover's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant attributes are posited to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammatory cascades that are implicated in hair loss. While initial investigations suggest a promising role for red clover in addressing hair loss, further rigorous studies are essential to validate and delineate the mechanisms underlying its potential therapeutic efficacy in this context. Given the promising reports so far Anagenix chose to inlude this in their AX:01 formulation.