ABSTRACT Background Diffuse hair loss and shedding is often managed with food supplements, yet evidence for ingredient combinations is limited. Our exploratory study evaluated a nutritional supplement (Priorin capsules, Bayer) containing millet extract, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), L‐cystine, and biotin (vitamin B7) in healthy subjects with light diffuse hair loss. Methods In this open‐label, intra‐individual, multicenter study, subjects with non‐illness‐related, light diffuse hair loss used the product (two capsules/day) for 12 weeks. Endpoints included objective measurements of hair density, hair growth coefficient, and hair loss (phototrichogram), subjective evaluations of hair appearance, beauty and volume (hairdresser‐rated), consumer perception and acceptance, and tolerability. Results In 112 subjects (mean age 32 ± 1 years; 93.8% female), hair density ( n = 109) and the proportion of hairs in the anagen phase increased significantly, while the telogen proportion decreased ( p < 0.001, week 12 vs. baseline). Hair loss had declined by 59% at week 12 ( p < 0.001). Significant improvements in the hairdresser‐rated hair quality and appearance parameters (shine, softness/elasticity, strength, smoothness, dryness, vitality, volume) were observed ( p < 0.001). From week 2, subjects reported progressive improvement in appearance, growth, and slowing of hair loss. At week 12, 90% of subjects perceived improved hair appearance and growth, 85% reported slowing down of hair loss, and 82% were satisfied with the overall hair improvements with treatment. The supplement was generally well tolerated. Conclusions The combination of millet extract, pantothenic acid, L‐cystine, and biotin was associated with reduced hair loss, improvements in hair growth and appearance, and high subject satisfaction, and was well tolerated over 12 weeks.
Proksch et al. (Fri,) studied this question.