Plant-Based Hair Growth Serum: Dermatologist Review
Scientists have recently tested a new plant-based serum that claims to regrow hair and improve hair thickness in just 8 weeks. The results sound impressive: a 23.9% increase in hair density and thicker, longer hair in under two months.
But what does this actually mean for your hair health? And is it right for you? Let’s break down the study in simple terms—backed by published research and clinical evidence.
The Study: What Happened?
Researchers from Schweitzer Biotech Company, Kyoto University’s Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), and University of Pennsylvania’s Division of Plastic Surgery—in collaboration with Hungkuang University and China Medical University—conducted a rigorous clinical trial with 60 healthy adults over 56 days.
The research was published on medRxiv in September 2025 and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Antai Tian-Sheng Memorial Hospital (IRB No. 25-016-A). Participants applied the serum to their scalp nightly, and scientists used specialized tools to track hair density, thickness, and growth rate using standardized clinical measurement protocols.
The serum featured four active ingredients working together:
Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola): A botanical long used in traditional Asian medicine to support skin health and improve blood circulation to the scalp. The serum used isolated plant extracellular vesicles—tiny packets that cells can absorb to deliver nutrients directly to hair follicles.
Growth Factors (IGF-1 and FGF-7): Specialized proteins that signal hair follicles to stay in the active growth phase longer. Research shows these molecules are essential for healthy hair cycling, working through similar mechanisms to therapies like GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate) treatment, which delivers concentrated growth factors directly to dormant follicles.
Caffeine: Known to stimulate hair shaft growth and extend the growth cycle. Caffeine works by countering DHT-related suppression and improving scalp circulation.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5): A natural moisturizer that strengthens the hair barrier, reduces inflammation, and supports the health of cells that produce hair.
The Results: By the Numbers
The study compared the full formula against a placebo (no active ingredients). Here’s how the active serum performed:
| Measurement | Active Serum | Placebo | Difference | Statistical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Density | 23.9% increase | 11.9% increase | +12.0% | p < 0.001 *** |
| Hair Thickness | 27.9 micrometers | 13.9 micrometers | +14.0 μm | p < 0.0001 **** |
| Hair Loss (Shedding) | 63.6% reduction | 43.1% reduction | +20.5% | p < 0.05 * |
| Scalp Oil Production | 59% reduction | 47.7% reduction | +11.3% | p < 0.01 ** |
The Takeaway: The active serum performed nearly twice as well as the placebo across all key measurements. Results were visible as early as Day 14 and remained consistent through Day 56. See the full clinical trial data.
How Does It Work?
Think of hair growth like a plant that needs both water and sunlight. This serum works on multiple levels:
- Growth Factors send biochemical signals to hair follicles, telling them to stay in the “growth phase” (called anagen) longer instead of transitioning to the “resting phase” (called telogen) where hair naturally sheds.
- Centella Asiatica improves blood flow to the scalp and reduces inflammation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients directly to hair roots.
- Caffeine and Panthenol nourish the scalp, suppress inflammation-causing signals, and support the structural integrity of the hair shaft itself.
When all four ingredients work together, they create a synergistic effect—meaning the combination is more powerful than any single ingredient alone.
How Does It Compare to Proven Treatments?
As dermatologists, we always evaluate new research against established, evidence-based options. The most commonly discussed treatments are Minoxidil (Rogaine), Finasteride (Propecia), and advanced professional therapies like GFC therapy.
| Treatment | Mechanism | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minoxidil (Rogaine) | Prolongs growth phase | FDA-approved; 30+ years of data; topical application | Hair sheds again when you stop; takes 4+ months for results | Mild to moderate hair loss; those who prefer topical options |
| Finasteride (Propecia) | Blocks DHT hormone | FDA-approved; addresses root cause | Oral medication; potential sexual side effects; not suitable for women | Genetic male pattern baldness; long-term commitment |
| GFC Therapy | Concentrated growth factors | Higher growth factor dose than serum; minimally invasive; no systemic side effects | Requires clinical administration; multiple sessions | Early to moderate hair loss; those seeking professional intervention |
| New Plant Serum | Multiple growth signals + botanical support | Natural/topical; fast initial results; non-hormonal | Not FDA-approved; only 8-week data; unproven long-term results | Healthy scalps; mild thinning; those seeking non-hormonal boosters |
Important Note: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends discussing all options with a dermatologist before starting treatment, as effectiveness varies by individual.
Important Limitations: What You Need to Know
Before you switch your routine, it’s vital to understand the limitations of this study. This helps set realistic expectations:
1. Short Study Duration
The study only lasted 8 weeks. Hair naturally grows in cycles that take 2 to 6 years to complete. We don’t yet know if benefits continue after stopping or if there’s a rebound shedding effect like some treatments experience. The growth phase alone typically lasts 3-5 years, so 56 days captures only a fraction of normal hair cycling.
2. Tested Only on Healthy Scalps
Participants did not have diagnosed Androgenetic Alopecia (pattern baldness). Here’s why this matters: When you have genetic hair loss, your hair follicles are miniaturized by DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone. Healthy follicles respond very differently to growth stimulation than compromised or miniaturized follicles. If you have pattern baldness, this serum alone may not be sufficient—you likely need hormone-blocking treatments like Finasteride or professional therapies like GFC therapy.
3. Not Yet Peer-Reviewed
This data comes from a preprint study published on medRxiv in September 2025. It’s promising research, but it has not yet been verified through formal peer review.
4. No Head-to-Head Comparison with Standard Treatments
The study didn’t directly compare this serum against Minoxidil or Finasteride. Without this comparison, we can’t say whether it’s more effective, equally effective, or less effective than proven treatments.
5. Research Team Has Financial Interest
The study was funded by Schweitzer Biotech Company, which manufactures the serum. While the research appears rigorous, independent verification by researchers without financial interest would strengthen confidence in the results.
The Bottom Line for Your Hair
This serum represents exciting early-stage research. The science behind using growth factors and plant bioactives is sound, and the safety profile appears good in this 8-week trial.
However, do not stop your prescribed treatments.
If you have diagnosed hair loss, FDA-approved treatments like Minoxidil and Finasteride or professional procedures such as GFC therapy remain your best evidence-based options.
Who Might This Be Right For?
This serum is best suited for:
- Individuals with healthy hair experiencing mild thinning
- People wanting a non-hormonal booster to improve hair thickness and scalp health
- Those interested in plant-based approaches as a complement to existing routines
- Anyone with normal scalp conditions (no severe inflammation or disease)
This serum is NOT appropriate for:
- People with diagnosed Androgenetic Alopecia (pattern baldness)
- Severe hair loss or significant shedding requiring clinical intervention
- Pregnant or nursing women (safety data not available)
- Those with active scalp infections or inflammatory conditions
- Anyone taking medications that affect hair growth (consult your dermatologist first)
Is This Right for You?
The honest answer: We can’t tell without examining your scalp.
Hair thinning has many causes—genetics, hormones, stress, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid conditions, medications, and more. The treatment that works best depends entirely on the root cause of your hair loss. This is why professional evaluation is essential.
Your Next Steps
Don’t guess with your hair health. If you’re noticing thinning, shedding, or changes in hair texture, the best first step is a professional evaluation.
Schedule a Hair Loss Consultation at Derma Clinic Kathmandu
Our experienced dermatologists can:
- Examine your scalp and assess the cause of your hair loss
- Discuss proven treatment options including GFC Therapy, Topical or Oral treatment and other advanced treatments
- Create a personalized hair health plan tailored to your specific condition
- Monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed
Book your appointment today. Whether you’re experiencing early thinning or significant hair loss, Derma Clinic Kathmandu is here to help you make informed decisions based on your individual needs and the latest clinical evidence.
Schedule Your Dermatology Consultation at Derma Clinic Kathmandu for Hair loss treatment in Nepal.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is a research-based informational review only. The product discussed has not been tested, prescribed, or clinically evaluated by our dermatologists, and we have not treated any patients using this product. Any images or results mentioned are sourced from the reviewed materials and are not original clinical outcomes from our practice.
This content does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any hair loss treatment.
This article was written based on publicly available research and information and reflects the evidence available at the time of publication.