What is PTD-DBM?
PTD-DBM is a peptide from hair research. It engages the Wnt signaling route, important for the activation of hair follicles. Unlike most other entries here, PTD-DBM is usually applied topically to the scalp, often combined with microneedling.
How it works
A protein called CXXC5 normally brakes the Wnt route by binding the protein Dishevelled. PTD-DBM displaces CXXC5 from this binding, the Wnt route becomes more active again, and that promotes the activation of hair follicles. In animal models even the formation of new follicles in wounds was described.
Use
Usually topically on the cleansed scalp, often together with microneedling to improve uptake.
- Apply per product instructions.
- Regular use over weeks to months, the effect builds slowly.
Dosing
Members only
Dosing recommendations are visible to logged-in members only. Logging in is free.
What the research shows
A study (Lee, Choi, 2017) showed that PTD-DBM stimulated hair growth in mice via inhibition of CXXC5 and even promoted the formation of new hair follicles in wounds. That is a clean preclinical basis but animal and cell research, no controlled human studies.
Side effects
- Topically generally well tolerated, occasionally mild scalp irritation.
- Solid human data are limited.
Storage
Before mixing the powder is robust, normal room temperature (around 20 to 25 degrees) is fine, ideally kept in the dark. After mixing, keep in the fridge (2 to 8 degrees), do not freeze. It stays good there for at least 8 to 10 weeks with barely any loss of potency, in practice considerably longer. Swirl or shake to mix, both are fine.