Hair loss linked to gut and scalp bacteria in new study

NCT ID NCT07716748

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Skin Centre Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 21, 2026 · Last updated Jul 22, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study investigates whether the bacteria living in the gut and on the scalp differ between men with androgenetic alopecia (common hair loss) and those without. Researchers will also look at how these bacterial communities change after treatment with oral minoxidil, a standard hair-loss medication. By analyzing stool, scalp swabs, hair follicles, and blood samples, the study aims to uncover biological markers that could lead to better understanding and future treatments for hair loss.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: oral minoxidil
What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal how gut and scalp bacteria influence hair loss and point toward new microbiome-based treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early exploratory study with only 66 participants, so findings may not apply broadly. It focuses on biological markers, not on proving that minoxidil works.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

alopecia androgenetic alopecia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HAIR LOSS

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.