Studies carried out by the University Of Jena in Germany found that caffeine significantly boosted growth of hair follicles, leading the team to conclude that caffeine is indeed a stimulator of hair growth.
But before you head for Starbucks, knocking back an espresso won’t miraculously give you Rapunzel-inspired locks.
However caffeine-enriched shampoos might be the answer. Not only is caffeine packed with tress-boosting antioxidants, it also has anti-inflammatory benefits, which can reduce scalp irritation.
“Caffeine penetrates into the hair roots and stimulates them and triggers stronger hair growth,” says top hairdresser Armin Morbach. “Be sure to allow the caffeine-containing shampoo to stay on the scalp for at least two minutes. It takes a while for the caffeine to penetrate to the hair roots and show an effect.”
Want to give your locks a caffeine rush? Here are some products to check out:
Wella Professionals Refresh Revitalising Shampoo
This body-boosting shampoo is enriched with caffeine and menthol to soothe, calm and refresh the scalp and hair for a radiant, glossy finish.
Alpecin Caffeine Shampoo
The best-selling shampoo claims it can stimulate hair growth in as little as 120 seconds.
D.S. Laboratories Revita Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo
This detergent-free shampoo is perfect for those with fragile hair and sensitive scalps. It’s enriched with caffeine and amino-acids to stimulate the growth of thinning follicles.