Signalling molecules involved in the hair cycle. Some (like PGE2) appear to support growth while others (PGD2) are raised in balding scalp and may suppress it. This pathway is an active research target; the drug latanoprost works on a related receptor, and altered prostaglandins partly explain eyelash growth from such drugs.
Related terms
Try the free self-check →Sources: AAD ↗
Explore more
Self-check →Treatments →Transplant →Women →New →Hair Loss Causes →Hair-Loss Glossary →Hair-Loss Questions & Answers →Hair-Loss Ingredient Evidence Ratings →Hair Transplant Cost by City →
Not medical advice. General education only; it does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.
⚠️ When to see a doctor — don’t self-treat
- Sudden patchy or circular bald spots
- Redness, scaling, pus, pain or itch (possible scarring alopecia — treat urgently)
- Broken hairs or rapid loss
- Loss with body-wide signs (weight loss, fatigue, cycle changes, acne, extra hair)
- Loss right after a new medication
- Any hair loss in a child