Is castor oil effective in slowing down baldness?

Balness is characterised by excessive hair loss. This phenomenon is characterised by the weakening of the activity of the hair follicles. As a result, hair decreases in certain areas of the scalp. Generally, baldness occurs between one's twenties and forties. This hair issue primarily affects men and is very widespread. It is estimated that about 30% of men show signs of alopecia at 30 years old, 50% at 50 years old, and 80% at 70 years old.

Also known as androgenetic alopecia, the most common form of baldness is linked to a hormonal cause. Both women and men produce androgens, steroid hormones, but the amount synthesised is greater in men. However, androgens bind to specific receptors located in the hair follicles of the scalp. This leads to a shortening of the hair growth cycle, a miniaturisation of the follicles and a gradual reduction in hair density. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of testosterone that is particularly involved in androgenetic alopecia. DHT is formed from testosterone thanks to the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase.

It is interesting to note that hair loss does not occur uniformly across the scalp. Indeed, those located at the top of the forehead and the crown are most affected by baldness, while those on the sides are often protected. These latter are in fact insensitive to androgens, and are even referred to as "eternal hairs". Finally, although these hormones play a major role in baldness, other factors can cause hair loss. These notably include genetic susceptibility, stress, and diet, particularly a deficiency in vitamin D.