Capixyl is a peptide and botanical hair growth complex that may increase hair density by extending the hair growth cycle and reducing local hormonal activity that can lead to hair loss.
While early research is promising, real world evidence for Capixyl remains limited. So Capixyl is best viewed as a potential complementary treatment, rather than a proven alternative to licensed hair loss treatments.
Learn what Capixyl is, how it works, who it may benefit, and how it compares with minoxidil, finasteride and other proprietary hair loss formulas. Explore the current evidence for using Capixyl for hair loss, see the best application advice and learn when to seek specialist advice to improve your hair growth results.
Key takeaways
Capixyl is a proprietary blend of botanical extracts and peptides, which have been shown to prolong the growth phase of the hair growth cycle in clinical studies. Capixyl contains acetyl tetrapeptide-3 and red clover flower extract, which can combine to increase anagen-phase hair growth rates and potentially reduce the impact of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on your hair [1].
Capixyl is designed for topical application, with many popular hair density serums and shampoo containing this patented hair growth complex.
That said, there’s actually fairly limited research into the effectiveness of Capixyl on its own. Most studies include other complementary therapies (like Redensyl and rosemary hair oil), and are based on animal models or human studies with very small sample sizes. So while Capixyl has potential for increasing hair growth, results aren’t guaranteed.
Capixyl’s underlying hair growth mechanism is powered by two key ingredients: red clover flower extract and acetyl tetrapeptide-3. Combined, one study has shown that these ingredients may [1]:
However, this study only included 30 participants. Additionally, this study was affiliated with Lucas Meyer Cosmetics, the manufacturer of Capixyl, so the results need to be verified by larger independent studies to show the real world impact of this complex.
Capixyl may help lower scalp DHT levels, making it a viable treatment for male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss [1, 3]. DHT binds to receptors in the hair follicles, leading to hair follicle miniaturisation. Miniaturised hair follicles can’t produce hair, leading to progressive widespread balding.
Theoretically, Capixyl may also help those with telogen effluvium, which is caused by a broad range of triggers such as stress, childbirth, illness, and trauma. However, there’s not much evidence yet to show how effective Capixyl is in these instances.
Yes, Capixyl is available in the UK, though it’s not generally sold as a standalone formula. Instead, it’s used as an ingredient in many different hair density serums and shampoos to minimise hair loss.
Several over-the-counter hair growth products contain Capixyl. This table compares 6 different products containing Capixyl across categories including type, cost, and complementary ingredients.
Note: The Wimpole Clinic isn’t affiliated with any cosmetic hair treatment manufacturers or sellers. We don’t get commission if you buy any of these products.
• Pea sprout extract
• Caffeine
• Biotinoyl tripeptide-1
• Saw palmetto extract
• Rosemary leaf extract
• Biotin
• Redensyl
• Ginseng extract
• Procapil
• Placental Protein
• Hydrolyzed Keratin
• Saw palmetto
• Salicylic acid
Serums tend to be more effective than shampoos when it comes to hair growth ingredients like Capixyl. Serums and lotions allow the formula to sit longer on the scalp, rather than being washed away within a minute or two. Here’s how you should apply a hair growth serum containing Capixyl for best results:
If you’re looking for a shampoo to boost hair growth rather than a serum, it’s best to look for products like caffeine shampoos that have more substantial evidence to support their use in shampoo form.
Studies so far haven’t shown that Capixyl is harmful to women, although female-centred studies are very limited. The largest study demonstrating Capixyl’s effectiveness on its own exclusively studied male participants [1].
In another study that also included female participants, no adverse local effects were reported [2]. The formulation trialled in this case included Redensyl and ginseng extract as well as Capixyl, but suggests Capixyl is unlikely to cause significant or dangerous side effects for women.
That said, DHT blocking agents like Capixyl aren’t always suitable for women. Topical formulations (like Capixyl) are safer than oral DHT blockers for women, but you should still exercise caution, especially if you’re pregnant or planning to conceive soon.
If you’re here, you’re probably already aware of the two major treatments for male pattern baldness: minoxidil and finasteride. Capixyl has far less evidence to support its use than either of these treatments, so you’re probably less likely to see results when using Capixyl. However, Capixyl may be a useful adjunctive treatment.
Compare Capixyl with topical minoxidil and oral finasteride to see the pros and cons of each treatment in the table below.
• Prolongs anagen phase of hair growth cycle
• Temporary shedding
• Scalp redness
• Erectile dysfunction
• Low mood
While formulas containing Capixyl can offer some potential hair growth improvements, the evidence is much weaker compared with minoxidil and finasteride. These licensed treatments for hair loss have shown consistent results for decades. As a result, we know much more about their effectiveness, side effects and risks — and at a similar price point, you’re more likely to see the results you want.
That said, there’s no evidence that it’s harmful to use Capixyl alongside minoxidil and/or finasteride. So you could consider adding a Capixyl-based serum to your treatment plan to potentially improve your results.
Capixyl isn’t the only proprietary hair loss formula on the market. Redensyl, Procapil, Baicapil, Anagain and other emerging complexes are also used in many cosmetic hair growth serums. So how does Capixyl measure up against these alternative formulas?
• The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
• John Frieda PROfiller+ Hair Growth Scalp Serum
• Revivv For Her Hair Growth Serum
• Revivv For Him Hair Growth Serum
• Bondi Boost Anti-Thinning Procapil Scalp Tonic
• BaseLift Baicapil & Caffeine Hair Growth Serum
Procapil — which combines biotinoyl tripeptide-1, apigenin and oleanolic acid — appears to be the most studied of these formulas. But right now, there’s no research to show any individual formula is better than any other, including Capixyl.
Most evidence for all these treatments is theoretical. The individual active ingredients have shown promise for treating hair loss, but there are very few clinical studies that prove each formula works in isolation. Studies tend to combine the treatments, which can actually be useful when you’re buying products, as most serums contain multiple active ingredients.
It’s also important to note that many trials for these proprietary formulations are funded and/or carried out by the manufacturer. This doesn’t necessarily negate the findings, but it does mean that independent large-scale studies are needed to corroborate the results.
Hair growth formulas like Capixyl offer some potential positives for your hair, but they’re likely to be most useful as part of a broader hair loss management plan. That’s where a specialist hair loss clinic like the Wimpole Clinic can help.
We’ve been named the UK’s best hair transplant clinic for six years in a row, so we’re well-placed to help you achieve thicker, fuller hair. Even if you’re not yet exploring surgical options, we can create a personalised therapeutic plan to help control hair loss and encourage regrowth, including botanical products like Capixyl as well as licensed drugs and off-label treatments.
Book a consultation at the Wimpole Clinic today to get started with our friendly team of hair loss specialists.
Explore all the Capixyl FAQs to understand more about this hair growth formula.
No. Capixyl is available over-the-counter or online as part of many cosmetic hair growth serums and shampoos. You don’t need a prescription to buy products containing Capixyl.
No studies have yet compared minoxidil directly with Capixyl. However, one study compared the application of topical 5% minoxidil with a topical formulation containing Capixyl, Redensyl, and Procapil, known as RCP [12]. Researchers found that RCP offered a higher researcher score, higher photographic evaluation score, and higher self-evaluation score than minoxidil 5%.
So combining Capixyl with other formulas may lead to better results than minoxidil alone. However, there is much more established, long-term evidence to support the use of minoxidil compared with these proprietary formulations.
In many cases, yes, although women should note that Capixyl may affect local DHT levels in the area(s) of application. Women are usually advised to avoid DHT blockers, though topical formulations tend to be safer than systemic DHT blocking drugs like finasteride.
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t use Capixyl.
No studies have directly compared the effectiveness of Capixyl versus finasteride, but it’s very unlikely to be as effective. Oral finasteride has decades of evidence to show that it can reduce overall DHT levels, which leads to consistent and noticeable improvements in hair density.
That said, Capixyl may be a decent alternative to finasteride if you’re concerned about side effects. Capixyl may suppress DHT levels locally, but it doesn’t affect systemic DHT levels, so it’s very unlikely to cause side effects like finasteride.
It depends on what other hair loss control measures you’re taking. If you’re also using minoxidil and/or other proven hair loss treatments, you may not see too much disruption to your hair if you stop using Capixyl.
However, if you’ve seen benefits from Capixyl alone, discontinuing Capixyl use may lead to increased hair loss. So if you decide to stop using your Capixyl product, it’s best to replace it with another proven treatment to maintain the effects.
It’s unlikely that Capixyl will do much to help if you have widespread hair loss. In these cases, hair transplant procedures like FUE or FUT are normally required to restore your hair. Even then, getting a hair transplant when you’re completely bald may not restore total coverage or density.
Talk to a professional hair loss specialist about your options for treating extensive baldness. The Wimpole Clinic offers free consultations and hair loss assessments to those considering hair transplantation.
Yes. You’ll need to wait around 2 weeks after your hair transplant before you can start using serums containing Capixyl to reduce the risk of infection. But after this time (or when you’ve been cleared by your clinical support team) you can start or continue to use products containing Capixyl to help limit native hair loss.
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Dr Ricardo Correia (GMC 7426938) is an experienced hair transplant surgeon at the Wimpole Clinic. With experience in all steps of the transplant process, including graft extraction, incisions, and graft placement, as well as proficiency with all incision methods – including sapphire blades – Dr Correia possesses an in-depth skill set at the disposal of his clients’ wishes.
Dr Correia’s clientele has included celebrities, professional athletes, and social media influencers, all seeking discreet, high-quality care tailored to their public-facing lives.
Having undergone extensive training under the guidance of pioneering hair transplant surgeon Mr. Michael May at the esteemed Wimpole Clinic, Dr Correia has developed a wealth of expertise in the field of hair restoration. His experience and mentorship under Mr. Michael May have equipped him with cutting-edge techniques and a profound understanding of the intricate art and science of hair transplantation. This comprehensive training has positioned him as a skilled and innovative practitioner in the realm of cosmetic surgery, ready to deliver exceptional results to his clients.
Having graduated from University College London with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, along with a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Dr Ricardo Correia continued with a 10-year career in the NHS in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, focusing on surgical specialties, including Emergency, Colorectal, Breast, and Transplant Surgery.
Dr. Correia combines his interest in the science of hair transplantation with his upbringing in an artistic family to create natural aesthetic designs that complement his clients’ unique features. He also understands how important the decision to undertake a hair transplant can be for his clients and prioritises collaboration throughout the process for optimal outcomes.
