This post was originally written in 2024. I have added new updates from 2025 and 2026 at the bottom. I have extensively covered the work of the esteemed Japanese hair loss researcher Dr. Junji Fukuda for over ten years. Among the posts that I have written in relation to his team’s work at Fukuda Lab include the following: February 21, 2024 A Visit to Fukuda Lab at Yokohama National Reader “Theo” just sent me a link to a very interesting diary of a hair transplant surgeon from Japan who just visited the Fukuda Lab. Note that while Dr. Fukuda is based at Yokohama National University, the research seems to be taking place at Kanagawa Life Innovation Center (per the above link). One of the images also mentions the Kanagawa Center for Clinical Research & Strategy (KCCR). Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan and is the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture. Check out this PDF of the regenerative medicine sector at Kanagawa Prefecture. From this visit and summary, I learn some very interesting things. There are three distinct methods in which Dr. Fukuda is pursuing hair regeneration. I mentioned them in my past lengthy post too, but now we have more clarity. 1) Dermal Papilla Cell Transplantation “Dermal papilla cell transplantation is about to begin in Japan.“ Transplantation of dermal papilla cells (via stratified culture). I assume that the “stratified cuture” in the translation means 3D culturing. Dr. Fukuda mentions that Shiseido already conducted a clinical trial using 2D culturing. In this method, cells are are lined up on a flat surface when culturing, but it only resulted in a 5% increase in hair volume. The 3D method will likely be superior and the clinical trials are about to finally begin! It is hoped to be “put into practical use within five years”. 2) Transplantation of Hair Follicle Primordium “I think this will take some time.” The creation of hair follicle primordia means generating hair from scratch. i.e., hair multiplication. I previously discussed the Yokohama team’s process of achieving this via increasing and mixing epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells. These then form “hair follicle primordia“ that are transplanted to the same donor’s scalp in order to regenerate hair in thinning regions of the scalp. Per the latest feedback from Dr. Fukuda, while this process has already been proven by them in mice, human hair is a different animal. Once the primordium tissue is transplanted to human heads, the direction and length grow haphazardly. He thinks that this will take some time. 3) Transplantation of Regenerated Hair Follicles in Vitro (Organoids) “It will likely take more than 10 years before it can be used in humans.” The final method is in vitro regenerated hair follicle transplantation (also called organoid). In this process, hair follicles are regenerated outside the body, lengthened by almost 100%, and then transplanted into the scalp. Per Dr. Fukuda, it will likely take more than 10 years before it can be used in humans. Other Notes In March 2023, Dr. Fukuda and his Yokohama team published an important hair regeneration related study. They made an improvement in the expansion of hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) and dermal papilla cells via the use of a newly designed microwell array device. Fukuda Lab’s hair research summary poster. Source:Naohiro Uchida, Director of Almo Plastic Clinic Hair Transplantation. Update: April 18, 2024 New Junji Fukuda interview given to Tokyo Television. Someone please translate it into English if you know Japanese. Not yet on YouTube. Junji Fukuda TV Interview. Update: June 15, 2025 Yet Another Visit to Fukuda Lab Yet again, Tokyo TV visited world renowned hair loss researcher Dr. Junji Fukuda at Yokahama National University. A Japanese reader posted a link to the full video in the comments, but it did not load for me. However, I managed to find two of the segments on YouTube. You can turn on English captions in the videos. The Japanese viewer comments underneath the first video are funny. Update: June 12, 2026 A number of new updates in recent months. In December 2025, Dr. Fukuda gave an interesting interview. He said that his team’s initial goal is to popularize hair regeneration therapy, thereby establishing the necessary infrastructure (such as cell processing facilities). In the future, they aim to expand this technology to regenerative medicine for various organs, in particular, the liver. Quote: “Hair is naturally formed by two types of cells (epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells) exchanging information with each other. We are challenging ourselves to unravel the mechanism of this “interaction” and completely reproduce it in a culture dish. In fact, most of the organs in our bodies are formed by the interaction of these two types of cells.” Of note, Dr. Fukuda is described as the President and CEO of TrichoSeeds, a company he co-founded several years ago. He also continues to work at Yokohama National University via Fukuda Lab as a professor and researcher. In March 2026, Dr. Fukuda co-authored a paper on the potential of employing hiPSC-derived ectodermal precursor cells in hair follicle organoid cultures in hair regenerative medicine. In April 2026, it seems like the Fukuda Lab got some funding from Beyondge Capital (Japan). Also in April 2026, Dr. Fukuda gave a presentation titled: “Treatment of male pattern baldness using microRNA produced by human papilla cells in stratified culture.” In April, Dr. Fukuda and his team authored yet another paper. They discuss their findings about the correlation between reduced CD200 expression and increased hair regenerative capability of cultured hair follicle bulge cells. Quote: “Our study refines the functional interpretation of CD200-defined bulge heterogeneity and provides insights for optimizing human bulge cell-based approaches to hair follicle regeneration.“ Source link

Will Your Hair Grow Back? In most cases, yes. Telogen effluvium resolves as the body stabilizes and nutrient stores are replenished, with shedding slowing within three to six months and visible density improving over the following six to nine months. The important distinction: hair loss driven by advancing androgenetic alopecia follows a different path and responds best to targeted clinical treatment. Getting a proper diagnosis is what makes the difference between watching and waiting and actually getting ahead of it. What You Can Do Now Prioritize protein. Hair is made of keratin, and dietary protein is its primary building block. Falling short during caloric restriction is one of the most direct drivers of follicle stress. Get your levels tested. A panel covering ferritin, zinc, vitamin D, thyroid, and hormones gives a clear picture of where deficiencies exist before shedding becomes significant. Most of our hair loss programs start with comprehensive testing which you can do in person at our Scottsdale clinic or at home. To learn more about our blood tests, click here. Start early. Earlier clinical support consistently produces better outcomes. Waiting until shedding is severe means the follicles have already been through a full cycle of stress. Ready to Build a Plan with our Hair Loss Clinic in Scottsdale? If you have been on a GLP-1 medication for three months or more and are noticing changes in your hair, a consultation with our Scottsdale team is the right next step. At NHLMA, we start with a thorough diagnostic workup and build a personalized protocol around your specific presentation — whether that includes comprehensive lab testing, PRP therapy, secretome stem cell therapy, or targeted clinical products. Your weight loss journey and your hair health are two things you should never have to choose between. With the right support, you can have both. Source link

The popular Amazon Prime Day runs from June 23-June 26, 2026 this year. You will need an Amazon Prime membership to take advantage of the event. If you’re not a member, sign up for a free 30-day trial in order to participate in the sale. You can cancel your trial before the 30 days are up to avoid being charged. If you have Prime membership, shipping is free. Below, I will list the early deals as they come. Hair Loss Product Deals Other Big Deals Source link

Is SPF Hurting Your Hairline? When we think about hair loss, most of us jump straight to genetics, hormones, or stress. But one factor people rarely consider is sun exposure and how it affects the scalp and hairline, especially when hair is thinning. So, let’s break down what we actually know about sun, sunscreen, and hair loss in simple terms. How the Sun Can Affect Hair and the Scalp Hair does give the scalp some natural protection, but it’s not perfect, especially if you’re experiencing thinning or a receding hairline. Here’s what research shows: UV rays can damage hair, making it drier, weaker, and more likely to break Sun exposure can also impact the scalp, causing inflammation or irritation In some studies, UV exposure has been linked to changes in the hair follicle that may affect growth over time Think of UV damage like “aging” for both hair and the scalp. If hair is already fragile or sparse, the sun can make things worse. So is there a link between Sunscreen and Hair Loss? You may have seen headlines or TikToks warning that sunscreen causes hair loss – especially around the hairline. Here’s the truth: Some studies have found that people with a condition called frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) were more likely to report using sunscreen or skincare products on the face This led to the theory that sunscreen or certain ingredients might trigger irritation or inflammation in some people But, and this is important, researchers are not sure if sunscreen is actually the cause. Many of these studies show a “connection” but not clear proof. There are also other explanations, such as: People who use sunscreen more often tend to take care of their skin, so they may just notice changes sooner Some sunscreens may be irritating to sensitive skin, especially sprays and fragranced products used near the hairline So far, there isn’t strong evidence that sunscreen directly causes hair loss. Should You Put SPF on Your Scalp? If you have full, dense hair, your scalp is naturally protected most of the time. If you’re thinning or have a receding hairline, your scalp is more exposed, which means more risk of sun damage. What we recommend: Use hats or physical protection when you’re in direct sunlight for long periods If you use sunscreen, choose formulas made for scalp or sensitive skin, ideally mineral-based and non-irritating Avoid heavy sprays and thick creams directly on the hairline if they cause redness, itching, or flaking Bottom line: protecting your scalp from UV is helpful,  just be mindful of what products you use. What About Prevention and Hair Growth? If someone is dealing with thinning, early hairline recession, or ongoing hair loss, sun protection can be part of a bigger prevention strategy, along with: UV damage won’t be the main cause of hair loss, but reducing irritation and inflammation can support healthier growth. Our Hair Restoration Approach at NHLMA We help clients build long-term, personalized hair growth plans to support and protect the scalp. That means looking at: Genetics Hormones Inflammation Lifestyle Environmental exposure And overall scalp health Because hair loss is never just one thing and neither is recovery. If you’re noticing thinning, increased shedding, or changes to your hairline, we can help you figure out what’s going on and create a treatment plan that makes sense for your body and goals. Final Takeaway The sun can harm hair and the scalp, especially when hair is thinning. Sunscreen isn’t clearly proven to cause hair loss, but some formulas may irritate sensitive skin. Protect your scalp, pay attention to products that cause irritation, and think of hair health as an inside-out process. If you want support in understanding what’s causing your hair changes, or you’re curious about treatments that work – we’re here to help so book a free hair loss consultation below. Source link

What are the Types of Dermal Fillers? Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Brands you may know: Juvederm, Restylane, Revanesse Versa Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most popular type. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance your body already naturally produces, so these fillers tend to look and feel very natural. HA fillers are often used for lip plumping, filling under-eye hollows, softening lines around the mouth, and restoring volume in the cheeks. They work quickly, so results are visible right away. They typically last between six months and one year, depending on the product and the area treated. A big benefit of HA fillers is that they can be dissolved if needed, which gives patients a sense of reassurance if they are nervous about looking “overdone”. Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers Brand you may know: Radiesse Radiesse is a thicker filler that is great for creating structure and lift, especially in the cheeks, jawline, and deep folds around the mouth. It gives immediate results, but it also stimulates collagen production over time, which helps firm and smooth the skin from within. Radiesse typically lasts a year or longer. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, it cannot be dissolved, so it requires more careful placement and is best used with a skilled injector. This type of filler is ideal for someone who wants noticeable contouring and longer-lasting results without surgery. Collagen-Stimulating Fillers Brand you may know: Sculptra Sculptra works differently than traditional fillers. Instead of filling areas right away, it stimulates your body to build its own collagen over the course of several months. This makes it a great option for overall facial rejuvenation, softening deep wrinkles, and restoring volume slowly and naturally. Sculptra is often used in the cheeks, temples, and lower face to create a “lifted” and refreshed look. Results are gradual and can last up to two years or more. Because the change is subtle and long-term, it’s best for someone who wants improvement without looking like they suddenly had something done. Semi-Permanent Fillers Brand you may know: Bellafill Bellafill is a long-lasting filler that uses small microscopic beads to provide structure under the skin. It can last five years or more. It is commonly used for deep folds and acne scars. Because this filler lasts so long, it is critical that it is placed by a highly experienced provider and that the patient is a good candidate. Fat Transfer Fillers In some cases, fat from another part of the body can be injected into the face. This is considered a more permanent option, since the fat becomes part of the body’s own tissue. Fat transfer is often used for significant volume loss in the cheeks, temples, or under the eyes. Results can be natural and long-lasting, but the procedure is more invasive than traditional fillers. How Long Do Fillers Last? This depends on the product, the area treated, and individual metabolism. On average: Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane last six months to one year. Radiesse often lasts a year or more. Sculptra can last two years or more. Bellafill can last five years or more. Fat transfer can be long-lasting or permanent. Many clients return for maintenance treatments once or twice per year to keep results consistent with natural aging. Source link

What Botox Actually Does Botox (botulinum toxin type A) works by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles. These are the lines that form from repeated facial movements like squinting, smiling, and furrowing your brow. When those muscles are relaxed, the overlying skin smooths out. Results typically appear within three to seven days, peak around two weeks, and last anywhere from three to four months depending on your metabolism, the area treated, and how frequently you’ve been treated in the past. Regular treatments can actually extend the time between appointments, since the muscles gradually retain less tension. Common treatment areas include the forehead, the lines between the brows (often called the “elevens”), and crow’s feet around the eyes. With the right injector, Botox can also address a brow lift, a gummy smile, lip lines, neck bands, and even jaw slimming. What Makes a Good Botox Injector This is where it really matters. Botox is a prescription medication that requires clinical training and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. Results vary significantly based on who’s holding the needle. Here’s what to look for when choosing an injector in Scottsdale: Medical credentials. Your injector should be a licensed medical professional, whether that’s a physician, nurse practitioner, or registered nurse working under physician oversight. Always ask. Before and after photos. Ask to see real patient results, specifically in the areas you want treated. Consistent, natural-looking outcomes are the goal. A consultation before injection. Any reputable provider will sit down with you, listen to your goals, assess your anatomy, and discuss realistic outcomes before ever picking up a syringe. If someone is rushing you to the table, that’s a signal to slow down. Dosing transparency. Botox is measured in units, and the number of units used matters. A trustworthy injector will tell you exactly how many units they’re using and why. For example, for our hair loss specialist Leiah, we recently showcased her Botox and Juvederm dosage at her latest appointment in our newsletter. Source link

Has your hair growth stopped? If you have been consistent with your PRP or exosome treatments, you have already taken an important step toward supporting healthier, stronger hair. Many clients see encouraging progress early on, then notice that results begin to slow or level off. This is known as a hair growth plateau, and it is a very common part of the regenerative process. It does not mean your treatments have stopped working.  It usually means your hair follicles have adapted. Understanding Hair Follicles Hair follicles are living, responsive structures. When they receive the same type of stimulation repeatedly, their biological response can decrease over time. This is similar to what happens with skincare routines or exercise programs when the body becomes accustomed to a single approach. Adaptation is normal, but it can slow visible progress. Cycling Hair Loss Treatments For Boosting Hair Growth This is where cycling treatments becomes valuable. Cycling means intentionally rotating or layering different regenerative hair loss therapies so hair follicles continue to receive varied signals that support circulation, cellular repair, and growth activation. Changing the stimulus can help reawaken follicles that have become sluggish and encourage them to reenter a more active growth phase. Source link

Myth 2: Wearing hats or pulling your hair back causes balding Hats do not suffocate hair follicles, and everyday ponytails are not the reason you are experiencing hair thinning. True balding begins beneath the surface of the scalp at the follicular level. While consistently tight hairstyles can contribute to breakage or traction related thinning over time, they do not cause pattern hair loss. Understanding this distinction helps separate common balding misconceptions from reality. If hair breakage is a concern, protecting your strands matters. Our NHLMA Silk Sleep Set with an eye mask, scrunchie, and pillowcase helps reduce friction, retain moisture, and support healthier hair while you sleep. Available in white or grey. Myth 3: Hair loss only happens as you get older Age can influence hair density, but hair thinning does not wait for a certain milestone. We regularly see men and women in their twenties and thirties experiencing changes triggered by stress, hormonal shifts, inflammation, or nutrient deficiencies. One of the most important hair thinning truths is that early intervention often leads to better outcomes than waiting until loss is more advanced. Myth 4: If you are shedding, you are going bald Shedding and hair loss are not the same thing. Daily shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle. Increased shedding can occur after illness, stress, or hormonal changes and is often temporary. True hair loss happens when follicles gradually miniaturize or stop producing strong hair over time. Knowing the difference can reduce unnecessary worry and help guide smarter treatment decisions. Myth 5: Nothing really works for hair loss This may be the most discouraging of all hair loss myths and also the least true. Advances in regenerative medicine have transformed what is possible. Treatments like medical grade laser therapy, PRP, exosomes, and targeted cellular support help improve follicle health, enhance cellular signaling, and restore a healthier scalp environment. While no treatment is one size fits all, personalized plans guided by science can deliver meaningful, visible results. Source link

Bonus: Get Monthly Personalized Facials Monthly personalized facials play a powerful role in managing both acne and signs of aging. Acne is often driven by inflammation, congestion, and imbalance within the skin barrier. Our customized facials focus on calming inflammation, regulating oil production, clearing pores, and supporting healthy cell turnover without compromising the skin’s integrity. For anti aging concerns, monthly custom facials or Hydrafacials help stimulate circulation, support collagen production, and improve skin texture and tone over time. By adjusting techniques and active ingredients each month, we can address fine lines, dullness, dehydration, and loss of firmness in a controlled, progressive way. Because skin is constantly changing, personalization is key. These facials allow our providers to respond to breakouts, hormonal shifts, seasonal changes, or post procedure needs in real time. They also enhance the results of treatments like microneedling, lasers, and injectables by keeping the skin balanced and resilient between visits. Think of monthly personalized facials as ongoing skin maintenance. They help prevent setbacks, support long term clarity and firmness, and keep your skin performing at its best. Source link

If you’ve been researching advanced skin or hair treatments, you’ve likely come across exosomes. They’re often described as “next-generation regenerative therapy,” but what does that actually mean, and are exosomes worth considering? At NHLMA, we believe patients make the best decisions when they understand why a treatment works, not just what it promises. Below, we break down exosome therapy in clear, straightforward terms so you can decide whether it aligns with your goals. What Are Exosomes? (In Plain English) Exosomes are microscopic messengers naturally released by cells. Their job is to deliver instructions between cells, telling them how to repair, regenerate, and function more efficiently. In aesthetics, exosome therapy for skin treatment uses purified, lab-derived exosomes that contain powerful growth factors, proteins, and signaling molecules. When applied to the skin or scalp, these signals help activate the body’s natural repair processes rather than forcing change from the outside. Think of exosomes as communication tools: they don’t replace your cells, but they encourage them to perform better. Source link