What is prostaglandin D2 (PGD2)?
PGD2 is a lipid compound found in higher concentrations in bald scalps and believed to inhibit hair follicle growth and regeneration.
It works by blocking the signaling pathways necessary for transitioning follicles into the active growth phase.
While red light therapy doesn’t directly suppress PGD2, it may help offset its inhibitory effects by enhancing mitochondrial function and supporting pro-growth signaling in follicle cells.
Related terms
Keratinocytes
Mechanisms of Action
Keratinocytes are cells in the epidermis responsible for producing keratin.
Photobiomodulation (PBMT)
Mechanisms of Action
Photobiomodulation (PBMT) is a therapeutic technique that uses specific light wavelengths to stimulate biological processes at the cellular level.
Dermal Papilla Cells
Mechanisms of Action
Dermal papilla cells are specialized cells located at the base of each hair follicle that regulate hair growth by interacting with surrounding stem cells and signaling molecules.
Hair Cycle Dysregulation
Mechanisms of Action
Hair cycle dysregulation refers to an imbalance in the natural phases of hair growth (anagen, catagen, telogen).