Chinese scientists create electric comb that restores hair

This is a common form of hair loss caused by the effect of hormones on hair follicles. The comb's weak electrical impulses deliver therapeutic substances directly to the follicles. The device was tested on mice: over 28 days, hair grew back on nearly the entire treated area of skin. Minoxidil produced results on approximately 70% of the area in the same period. The study was published in the journal Nature Communications.

In appearance, Detangle resembles an ordinary comb, but its teeth are of varying lengths and equipped with electrodes. Some teeth contain small reservoirs with substances that stimulate hair growth. During combing, the teeth slightly lift the skin, and the electrodes emit weak impulses. The electric field penetrates deeper and helps therapeutic molecules reach the follicle cells.

Scientists used two substances that target different causes of hair loss. The first promotes the growth of new blood vessels around the follicles and improves their blood supply. The second reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone. Under the influence of this hormone, follicles shrink, and hair gradually becomes thinner.