Berberine and hair growth: what does the Cheng study show?
Short answer: In the study by Cheng et al. published in Phytomedicine in 2025, berberine supported the proliferation of human dermal papilla cells, lengthened normal and miniaturised human hair follicles in the laboratory, and accelerated hair growth in mice. The effect was linked to the Wnt/β-catenin pathway via Axin2. However, this is preclinical research; it does not prove that a berberine serum treats hair loss in patients.
Hair loss research is examining molecules that may support the growth capacity of the hair follicle. The study by Cheng and colleagues, published in Phytomedicine in 2025, is one of the studies evaluating berberine, found in plants such as barberry (Berberis vulgaris), from this perspective. For general information on berberine and hair, see our article Berberine (barberry) and hair.
How was the study done?
The researchers examined the effects of berberine in human dermal papilla cells, in normal and miniaturised human hair follicles kept alive in the laboratory, and in mice. It was not a clinical trial in which berberine was given to patients.
- Dermal papilla cells: Cells at the base of the hair follicle that control the hair growth cycle.
- Miniaturised follicle: A follicle that shrinks and produces thin, short hair in androgenetic (genetic-hormonal) hair loss.
- Mouse model: Used to see the effect on the hair cycle in living tissue.
What were the results?
In the experiments, berberine supported the proliferation of dermal papilla cells, increased the elongation of normal and miniaturised hair follicles, prolonged the anagen (growth) phase, and accelerated hair growth in mice.
The fact that an effect was also seen in miniaturised human follicles is noteworthy for further hair loss research.
How does berberine work?
The study linked berberine’s effect to the Axin2 protein and the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway. Genetically suppressing Axin2 reduced berberine’s effect on cell proliferation.
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway is one of the key signalling pathways for the hair follicle to enter and maintain its growth phase, and Axin2 is one of the proteins that regulates it. The reduced effect when Axin2 was suppressed supports a role for this mechanism.
What do these results mean for people?
The study shows that berberine is worth investigating for hair growth. But a human follicle responding in the laboratory does not prove that a serum will give the same result in patients.
Controlled human studies are needed before clinical use. If you are experiencing hair loss, the cause should be investigated first rather than using berberine products on your own.
Hair loss assessment in Ataşehir, Istanbul
Hair loss can be caused by genetic predisposition, hormones, iron deficiency, thyroid disease, stress or a past illness, and the right treatment depends on the cause. At Op. Dr. Salim Balin’s clinic in Ataşehir (Metropol İstanbul Block B, Floor 18), hair loss is assessed at an examination; for suitable patients, options such as hair mesotherapy, hair PRP and hair exosome treatment are discussed. See our Hair treatments page for all options.
For appointments, call or WhatsApp +90 506 520 30 55. Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 09:00–18:00. Address and directions
The clinic is in Atatürk Mahallesi, Ataşehir, in Metropol İstanbul Block B. Besides the Barbaros, İçerenköy, Küçükbakkalköy, Kayışdağı, Yenisahra and Ferhatpaşa neighbourhoods of Ataşehir, we see patients from Kadıköy (Kozyatağı, Bostancı, Göztepe, Erenköy), Ümraniye, Maltepe, Çekmeköy, Sancaktepe, Üsküdar, Kartal and other districts of Istanbul.
Frequently asked questions
Does berberine make hair grow?
In the 2025 study by Cheng et al., berberine increased the elongation of human hair follicles in the laboratory and accelerated hair growth in mice. However, there is no controlled clinical study showing that it regrows hair in people.
Was the Cheng 2025 study a clinical trial?
No. It was preclinical research in human dermal papilla cells, human hair follicles kept alive in the laboratory, and mice; berberine was not given to patients.
Can a berberine hair serum be used?
From this study, an effective serum concentration, frequency of use and long-term safety cannot be determined. Controlled human studies are needed before clinical use; for hair loss, investigating the cause first is recommended.
How does berberine act on the hair follicle?
According to the study, berberine activates the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway via the Axin2 protein. This pathway is important for hair to enter and maintain its growth (anagen) phase.
Where can I get hair loss assessed in Ataşehir?
Op. Dr. Salim Balin’s clinic is at Atatürk Mah., Ertuğrul Gazi Cad. No: 2H, Metropol İstanbul Block B, Floor 18, No: 282, Ataşehir / Istanbul. Appointments: +90 506 520 30 55 (phone or WhatsApp).
Sources and further reading
Cheng K, Lin J, Wu M et al. Berberine promotes hair growth by targeting Axin2 and activating Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Phytomedicine. 2025;141:156669 ↗This article is for information only and does not contain personal diagnosis or treatment advice. The evidence summary belongs to the published source and is not a promise of individual results.
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Get in touch with your questions about Berberine and hair growth or to request an appointment.
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