Effect of a Hydrolyzed Collagen, Vitamin, and Zinc Containing Nutritional Supplement on Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium (TE) is a prevalent cause of diffuse, nonscarring hair loss, characterized by the premature entry of hair follicles into the telogen phase. Previous research from our group demonstrated the efficacy of a nutritional supplement containing hydrolyzed collagen, Group B vitamins, and zinc (Pilopeptan^® Intensive) in improving the anagen/telogen ratio after a 1-month treatment. This study aimed to further assess and validate the sustained effects of this supplement in a larger cohort.

A 1-month intervention with Pilopeptan^® Intensive was administered to 343 TE patients, with assessments at baseline (T0), posttreatment (T1), and after a 30-day washout period (T2). Parameters evaluated included self-assessed hair thickness, hair amount, hair shedding, hair strength, hair brightness, hair softness, pull test results, subject-perceived improvement, treatment satisfaction, adherence, and side effects.

Out of 343 patients, 340 completed the second visit, and 330 completed all three visits. The participants, predominantly women (92.1%), had a mean age of 43.2 years. Significant improvements in all hair parameters were observed at T1 and T2 (P < 0.001). The pull test indicated reduced hair shedding, with sustained effects during the washout period (P < 0.001). Participants reported overall improvement and satisfaction with treatment. Mild side effects were reported by ten patients, with high adherence observed.

Pilopeptan^® Intensive showed promising effects in improving hair parameters for TE patients, with sustained benefits posttreatment. The study supports the potential role of nutritional supplements as nonpharmacological adjuvants for TE treatment. Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is warranted to validate long-term efficacy and safety.