Hair loss is something many struggle with, and it often leads to feelings of insecurity. But new research out of UCLA may soon offer real hope for those dealing with baldness or thinning hair. Scientists have discovered a molecule called PP405 that could completely change the way we treat hair loss.
This tiny molecule seems to “wake up” hair follicles that have gone dormant. In simple terms, it tells them to start growing hair again. And the results aren’t just soft baby fuzz. According to researchers, within just a week, actual thick hair strands begin to grow.
PP405 works by blocking a protein that normally keeps hair follicles in a resting state. Once that protein is out of the way, the follicles “wake up” and start growing hair naturally.
The project already has major support. Google Ventures has backed the research, and the team has raised over $16 million so far to continue testing.
If everything goes as planned and the product passes safety testing and gets FDA approval, it could hit the market as early as 2027.