Psoralen, when used in combination with ultraviolet light therapy (a treatment known as PUVA), is generally administered under strict medical supervision due to the precise nature of the treatment and potential side effects. Here’s how you can access treatments involving psoralen:

1. Dermatologist or Specialist Clinic: Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy is typically administered in a healthcare setting by a dermatologist or a specialist trained in treating skin conditions. This treatment is commonly used for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo, and its use in hair repigmentation is an extension of its applications in these skin disorders.
2. Prescription: Psoralen is available by prescription only, as it needs to be used under medical guidance. The treatment involves taking psoralen orally or applying it topically, followed by exposure to UVA light under controlled conditions.
3. Specialized Treatment Facilities: Because PUVA therapy requires special equipment (UVA light), it is offered in specialized treatment facilities or hospitals that have dermatology departments.

If you are considering psoralen for hair repigmentation or any other treatment, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss its suitability for your specific condition, the potential benefits, and risks associated with its use. They can provide guidance on how to access this treatment safely.

Cyclosporine A and tacrolimus are both immunosuppressive drugs that have interesting applications beyond their primary uses in preventing organ rejection. Here’s a bit more about each and their potential role in hair repigmentation:

1. Cyclosporine A: This is a medication primarily used to prevent organ transplant rejection. It works by suppressing the immune system to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ. Interestingly, cyclosporine A has also been found to have effects on hair growth. In dermatology, it has been occasionally used to treat alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss. Research suggests that cyclosporine A can promote hair growth by modulating the immune system and possibly through direct stimulation of hair follicular cells.
2. Tacrolimus: Like cyclosporine A, tacrolimus is also an immunosuppressant used primarily to reduce the risk of organ rejection following an organ transplant. Tacrolimus has a mechanism of action similar to that of cyclosporine but is generally considered to be more potent. In dermatological uses, tacrolimus is often applied topically for conditions like eczema, where it helps reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses in the skin. Regarding hair pigmentation, tacrolimus’s role isn’t as directly established as cyclosporine A in promoting hair growth. However, its overall effects on cellular mechanisms related to immune response and possibly epigenetic modifications might contribute to its potential use in hair repigmentation treatments, as mentioned by Dr. Sinclair.

The combination of these drugs, as discussed by Dr. Sinclair, aims to leverage their effects on the immune system and possibly the epigenetic landscape of hair follicle cells to rejuvenate hair and restore its color. This approach posits that altering the hair follicle environment can reverse the aging process at the cellular level, promoting pigment production and potentially reversing graying. These findings are still in the experimental stage and are not yet widely used for this purpose in clinical settings.

Both cyclosporine A and tacrolimus have a range of side effects, particularly due to their immunosuppressive actions. Here are the main side effects associated with each drug:

Cyclosporine A

1. Renal Dysfunction: One of the most serious side effects of cyclosporine A is its potential to cause kidney damage, which can be acute or chronic. Regular monitoring of kidney function is required when using this medication.
2. Hypertension: Increased blood pressure is a common side effect, which needs to be managed during treatment.
3. Immunosuppression: As an immunosuppressant, cyclosporine A can increase the risk of infections and decrease the ability to fight them.
4. Gastrointestinal Issues: These include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.
5. Gum Hyperplasia: Overgrowth of the gums is a notable side effect that can complicate oral hygiene.
6. Hypertrichosis: Unusual hair growth, which is ironically one of the side effects, given its potential application in promoting hair growth.
7. Tremors: Some patients may experience tremors or other neurological side effects.

Tacrolimus

1. Immunosuppression: Like cyclosporine A, tacrolimus also suppresses the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
2. Nephrotoxicity: Although generally less nephrotoxic than cyclosporine, tacrolimus can still impair kidney function, necessitating regular monitoring.
3. Neurological Effects: Headaches, tremors, and other neurological issues can occur.
4. Gastrointestinal Problems: Nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are common.
5. Diabetes: Tacrolimus has been associated with an increased risk of new-onset diabetes after transplantation.
6. Hypertension: Increased blood pressure can also occur with tacrolimus.
7. Skin Cancer: There is an increased risk of skin cancer with long-term use, especially when applied topically for dermatological conditions.

Both drugs require careful monitoring for side effects and are usually prescribed with a risk management plan in place. Their use in hair repigmentation treatments, particularly in non-transplant scenarios, would necessitate a careful evaluation of the benefits against these potential risks.

The document titled «How I Reversed My Hair Loss + Greying» outlines a personal account of how the author managed to combat hair loss and reverse greying. Here are the key points summarized from the document:

1. Early Intervention: The author emphasizes the importance of starting hair care early, ideally before noticeable hair loss begins, suggesting that preventative measures are more effective than treatments initiated after significant hair loss.
2. Daily Routine: The author uses a red light therapy cap daily, which has 312 laser diodes, to stimulate blood flow and follicle activity. This routine is part of a daily regimen that also includes applying a specially formulated topical treatment that includes ingredients like minoxidil and other additives tailored by a compounding pharmacy.
3. Additional Treatments: Besides the daily use of a red light cap and topical treatments, the author mentions the use of microneedling to enhance the absorption and effectiveness of topicals. However, they also note concerns about causing excessive trauma to the scalp due to multiple treatments.
4. Hair Care Practices: Basic hair care practices are highlighted, such as gentle combing and avoiding harsh treatments, to prevent further damage to hair follicles.
5. Grey Hair Reversal: The author discusses their efforts in reversing grey hair, mentioning the use of two specific formulations:
   • GR-7: A product used multiple times a week.
   • Myraki: An herbal extract used in tandem with GR-7 that also contributes to repigmentation, which the author notes has been verified through hair biopsy and microscopic examination showing pigment production beneath the scalp.
6. Psychological Impact: The document reflects on the psychological stress associated with hair loss and the complexity of dealing with it.
7. Simpler Options: For those overwhelmed by the detailed regimen, the author suggests starting with simple over-the-counter solutions like 5% minoxidil (Rogaine) before potentially moving to more complex therapies.
8. Ongoing Experiments: The author is experimenting with new treatments involving exosomes and a skincare system called Tixel, aiming to enhance treatment efficacy by opening up channels in the scalp for better delivery of therapeutic agents.

This summary captures the essence of the author’s protocol and experiences in managing hair loss and grey hair reversal, providing insights into both the practical aspects of his regimen and the personal impact of these conditions.