“Honey, this is expensive—they say it definitely grows hair” ... That’s wrong: The truth about “patented shampoo” [Smart Wellness]

[Financial News] In recent years, a flood of patented hair-loss products touting proprietary ingredients and technologies has raised expectations among consumers concerned about hair loss. But breakthrough patented technologies do not automatically guarantee a fundamental cure for hair loss. Experts said, “Cosmetics are an adjunct that can enhance the effects of drug treatment,”and stressed, “Hair-loss treatment should center on prescription medications such as finasteride or minoxidil.”

According to data from the Korean Intellectual Property Office, over the 22 years from 2002 to 2023,an analysis of hair-loss cosmetic patents in five major jurisdictions (Korea, the United States, China, Europe and Japan) found thatKorean applicants filed 576 of the 1,344 applications in total, accounting for 42.9%Caregen, which showcases global peptide technology, ranked first with 115 filings, followed by major companies such as Amorepacific Corporation and LG Household & Health Care. With startups such as Gravity, based on technology from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), and Refield, which has patented its proprietary ingredient in Korea, the United States and China, joining the fray, Korea has established itself as a “patent powerhouse” in hair loss.
Each patented technology touts a sophisticated mechanism. Refield has boosted scalp penetration by combining its proprietary ingredient (cADPR), which helps promote hair growth by regulating intracellular calcium signaling, with plant-derived exosomes. Gravity, developed by KAIST researchers, reduced hair shedding by coating hair proteins with a polyphenol ingredient (LiftMax 308) inspired by the adhesive properties of mussels.
Familiar bestsellers have evolved, too. Dr.G has introduced a cooling function to reduce scalp heat and improved formula stability, while Dr.Groot, marketed by LG Household & Health Care, incorporates technology to improve microcirculation and strengthen hair roots, along with biotin capsules. Dr.FORHAIR has maximized penetration with its “Polygen Complex,” which delivers nutrients in ultra-fine liposomes.

The point consumers should be most cautious aboutis that “patent registration” does not necessarily mean “medical efficacy”A patent only certifies a technology’s originality; it is not a guarantee of hair-growth effects equal to those of prescription treatments. The industry, too, defines itsproducts as essentially “at-home care adjuncts” that help reduce hair sheddingand draws a clear line there.
So how should consumers use these products wisely? If they are hesitant to take oral treatments such as finasteride or dutasteride, which affect hormones, because they fear the side effects,a “minimal” defense against hair loss using these cosmetics until they decide on treatmentcan be built. However, this applies only to the early stages, when hair-loss symptoms are not severe. Even if the products prove effective, prescription treatments will likely still need to be used alongside them to maintain the results. Those already receiving standard drug treatment may find them worth trying as a “running mate” to support treatment efficacy and manage hair thickness and volume.
It is also important to identify scalp concerns accurately. Because these are functional products, improper use may actually irritate the scalp. If heat and itching are severe, choose products with cooling and soothing properties; if hair has become thin and limp, opt for patented ingredients that bind to proteins. The cornerstone of hair-loss treatment remains medical diagnosis and standard medication.

[email protected] Kim Hyun-seon Reporter