The Science Behind the System
Every active in a Growth Bomb formula is selected for one reason: it works. No filler. No fairy dust. No ingredient that looks good on a label but does nothing on a scalp. Here's what's inside, why it's there, and what the research says.
Growth Bomb products are cosmetic formulations. The published research referenced below relates to ingredient-level studies conducted independently of Growth Bomb's specific formulas.
Capixyl™
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 + Trifolium pratense (Red Clover) Extract
Capixyl is a patented biomimetic peptide complex that targets two of the most common drivers of visible hair thinning: weakened follicle anchorage and a shortened growth cycle. It combines Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 - a synthetic peptide that mimics the body's own signalling proteins - with a concentrated extract of Trifolium pratense (Red Clover), rich in biochanin A.
Together, they support the extracellular matrix around the follicle, helping to maintain the structural environment needed for hair to stay in its active growth (anagen) phase for longer.
Published research
A randomised, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science assessed the Trifolium pratense and biomimetic peptide combination on 30 participants with receding hair. After 4 months of daily topical application, the treated group saw anagen (active growth) hair increase by an average of +13%, telogen (resting) hair density decrease by -29%, and the anagen-to-telogen ratio - the core measure of growth cycle health - improve by +46% compared to baseline. The placebo group moved in the opposite direction across all three measures.
Loing E, et al. A new strategy to modulate alopecia using a combination of two specific and unique ingredients. J Cosmet Sci. 2013;64(1):45-58. PMID: 23449130
Found in: Booster Serum Strength & Length, Hair Growth Support Kit, Post Pregnancy Support Kit, Hair Rescue Tonic
Caffeine (via Yerba Maté Extract)
Ilex paraguariensis leaf extract - natural source of caffeine antioxidants
Caffeine is the active backbone of the Growth Bomb system. Delivered via fermented Yerba Maté leaf extract - a native South American plant with among the highest caffeine and antioxidant density of any botanical - it penetrates the scalp surface and gets to work at follicle level.
Caffeine is one of the most studied topical actives in hair science. Its primary mechanisms: counteracting the follicle-suppressing effects of DHT (the androgen linked to pattern thinning), extending the active growth phase, and stimulating keratinocyte proliferation in the hair matrix. It also supports IGF-1 expression - a key growth factor involved in keeping follicles in anagen.
Published research
A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology by researchers at the University of Lubeck investigated caffeine on human hair follicles in vitro. Results showed caffeine enhanced hair shaft elongation, prolonged anagen duration, stimulated hair matrix keratinocyte proliferation, and increased IGF-1 protein expression in both male and female follicles. It also counteracted testosterone-enhanced TGF-β2 expression - the catagen-promoting factor that signals follicles to stop growing. Female follicles showed particularly strong sensitivity to caffeine's growth-supporting effects.
Fischer TW, et al. Differential effects of caffeine on hair shaft elongation, matrix and outer root sheath keratinocyte proliferation, and TGF-β2/IGF-1-mediated regulation of the hair cycle in male and female human hair follicles in vitro. Br J Dermatol. 2014;171(5):1031-43. PMID: 24836650. doi.org/10.1111/bjd.13114
Additional research
A separate human scalp study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found topical caffeine provided protection against UV-induced hair follicle damage, reduced cytotoxicity in follicle compartments, and stimulated IGF-1 expression in the proximal follicle - supporting follicle vitality under environmental stress.
Gherardini J, et al. Transepidermal UV radiation of scalp skin ex vivo induces hair follicle damage that is alleviated by topical caffeine. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2019;41(2):164-182. PMID: 30746733. doi.org/10.1111/ics.12521
Found in: Supercharge Shampoo, Supercharge Conditioner, Booster Serum, Hair Rescue Tonic, Hair Booster Tonic, Strengthening Hair Mask, Scalp Revival Scrub
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 - scalp barrier reinforcement and antioxidant defence
A healthy scalp barrier is non-negotiable for a healthy hair cycle. When the barrier is compromised - by buildup, oxidative stress, or inflammation - follicles become less effective at cycling through anagen, and hair shedding increases. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) works to reinforce that barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support the scalp's natural antioxidant defences.
In the Growth Bomb shampoo formula, niacinamide works in combination with caffeine - a pairing that has been the subject of independent clinical research.
Published research
A 24-week randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study assessed a shampoo and leave-on regimen containing niacinamide, caffeine and complementary barrier-enhancing actives in participants with self-perceived hair thinning. Compared with placebo, the treatment regimen delivered statistically significant reductions in hair shedding, increased total hair count as measured by phototrichogram, reduced transepidermal water loss (a marker of scalp barrier health), and improved scalp biomarker values. Participants also self-reported noticeable improvements.
Davis MG, et al. Scalp application of antioxidants improves scalp condition and reduces hair shedding in a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2021;43 Suppl 1:S14-S25. PMID: 34424558. doi.org/10.1111/ics.12734
Found in: Supercharge Shampoo, Supercharge Conditioner
Redensyl™
DHQG + EGCG2 - plant-derived hair stem cell activators
Redensyl is a patented complex developed by Givaudan (Switzerland) from two plant-derived molecules: dihydroquercetin-glucoside (DHQG) from larch wood, and epigallocatechin gallate-glucoside (EGCG2) from green tea. Its mechanism targets hair follicle stem cells (specifically the outer root sheath fibroblasts) to support the conditions for follicles to reactivate and re-enter the anagen growth phase.
Unlike most botanical actives that work indirectly via DHT inhibition or scalp circulation, Redensyl targets the follicle at a cellular level - supporting the signalling environment that governs whether a follicle stays dormant or becomes active.
Redensyl is backed by proprietary in vitro and in vivo data published by its manufacturer, including a clinical study (n=26) reporting measurable improvements in hair density over 84 days. While this data sits outside the independent peer-reviewed literature, Redensyl is one of the most widely studied and used peptide-class actives in professional scalp care globally.
Found in: Hair Booster Tonic, Mens Regrowth Support Kit, 2-in-1 Shampoo & Conditioner
Saw Palmetto
Serenoa repens - botanical 5-alpha-reductase modulator
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a well-researched botanical used in hair health supplementation for its interaction with the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme - the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated DHT is one of the primary drivers of androgenetic hair thinning in both men and women.
Saw Palmetto extract has been studied as a supplement option for androgenetic alopecia, with published research examining its effects on hair count and density over extended supplementation periods.
Published research
A 24-month randomised study published in the International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology examined Serenoa repens 320mg daily in 50 men with mild-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia. 38% of participants in the Saw Palmetto group showed an increase in hair growth over the study period, with effects observed predominantly at the vertex.
Rossi A, et al. Comparative effectiveness of finasteride vs Serenoa repens in male androgenetic alopecia: a two-year study. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2012;25(4):1167-73. PMID: 23298508. doi.org/10.1177/039463201202500435
Found in: Regrowth Assist Supplement, Supercharge Shampoo, Supercharge Conditioner
Biotin
Vitamin B7 - keratin infrastructure support
Biotin is one of the most well-known vitamins associated with hair and nail health. Its role in the body is structural: it supports the production of keratin - the protein that forms the physical shaft of every hair strand and the plate of every nail. Without adequate biotin, keratin synthesis is compromised, and hair and nail strength suffer.
Biotin works as part of a broader nutritional system. In the Growth Bomb supplement range it is combined with zinc, amino acids and other B vitamins - nutrients that each play a distinct role in the keratin production cycle and scalp health from within.
As with all supplements, the role of Biotin in hair and nail health is most relevant where nutritional support may be beneficial. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, speak with your healthcare professional.
Found in: Hair & Nail Booster Supplement, Post Pregnancy Hair Strength Support Supplement
White Cypress Extract
Callitris glaucophylla - Australian native fibre-strengthening extract
White Cypress is an Australian native botanical used in cosmetic formulation for its fibre-supporting properties. It works at the hair shaft level, helping to maintain the appearance of hair diameter and supporting the structural integrity of the fibre - which translates to visibly reduced breakage and a fuller-looking result over time.
It complements caffeine and peptide actives in leave-in formulas by addressing the cosmetic outcome - visible body, diameter and bounce - alongside the scalp-level activity of the hero actives.
Found in: Hair Rescue Tonic, Hair Booster Tonic, Booster Serum
Zinc
Zinc oxide - hair health, scalp health and keratin support
Zinc is an essential mineral involved in protein synthesis, cell division and immune function - all processes that directly affect hair follicle cycling. Zinc deficiency is one of the most studied modifiable factors in hair loss, and supplementation has been examined across multiple hair conditions including androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium.
Published research
A 2024 systematic review published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research assessed the relationship between micronutrients and androgenetic alopecia across 49 studies published between 1993 and 2023. The review found that zinc deficiency is associated with increased risk of androgenetic alopecia, and that zinc supplementation shows potential benefits in improving hair growth and preventing hair loss. Zinc was identified alongside Vitamin B, Vitamin D and iron as one of the micronutrients playing a critical role in hair growth and maintenance.
Wang R, et al. Micronutrients and Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2024;68(22):e2400652. PMID: 39440586. doi.org/10.1002/mnfr.202400652
Additional research
A comprehensive review published in Dermatology and Therapy covering the role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss confirmed that micronutrients including zinc play an important role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function, and that deficiency represents a modifiable risk factor associated with the development, prevention and treatment of alopecia.
Almohanna HM, et al. The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2019;9(1):51-70. PMID: 30547302. doi.org/10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6
Found in: Hair & Nail Booster Supplement (AUST L 399356), Post Pregnancy Hair Strength Support (AUST L 413607), Regrowth Assist (AUST L 448230)
Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera root extract - adaptogen, stress and cortisol support
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well-studied adaptogenic herb with TGA-permitted indications for helping the body adapt to stress and reducing stress symptoms. Its relevance to hair health is indirect but evidence-based: chronically elevated cortisol is associated with disruption to the hair growth cycle, and reducing the physiological stress burden supports the body's conditions for healthy hair maintenance.
In the Hair & Nail Booster formula, Ashwagandha is included at 3g dry root equivalent - consistent with the doses used in published clinical trials.
Published research
A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine assessed 64 adults under chronic stress receiving 300mg high-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract twice daily for 60 days. The treatment group showed a statistically significant reduction across all stress-assessment scales (p < 0.0001) and a substantial reduction in serum cortisol levels (p = 0.0006) compared to the placebo group.
Chandrasekhar K, et al. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012;34(3):255-62. PMID: 23439798. doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.106022
Additional research
A second double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study published in Cureus assessed 60 healthy adults with elevated perceived stress scores receiving Ashwagandha at 125mg or 300mg twice daily for 8 weeks. Both doses produced significant reductions in perceived stress scores and serum cortisol, alongside improved sleep quality compared to placebo.
Salve J, et al. Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Cureus. 2019;11(12):e6466. PMID: 32021735. doi.org/10.7759/cureus.6466
Found in: Hair & Nail Booster Supplement (AUST L 399356)
Postpartum nutrition and hair shedding
The published evidence behind the Post Pregnancy Hair Strength Support formula
Postpartum hair shedding is a widely reported experience, and the nutritional picture behind it is increasingly well-documented. Large-scale retrospective studies have identified specific micronutrient deficiencies as consistent findings in women presenting with hair shedding - providing a direct evidence base for targeted supplementation in the postpartum period.
Published research
A retrospective analysis of 3028 women with telogen effluvium published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found Vitamin D deficiency in 72.2% of patients, Vitamin B12 deficiency in 30.7% and zinc deficiency in 2.1%, with nutritional supplementation - particularly iron, Vitamin D and zinc - as the most frequently prescribed treatment approach across the cohort.
Yorulmaz A, et al. Telogen effluvium in daily practice: Patient characteristics, laboratory parameters, and treatment modalities of 3028 patients with telogen effluvium. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022;21(6):2610-2617. PMID: 34449961. doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14413
Additional research
A separate retrospective review of 2851 female patients with telogen effluvium published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found ferritin levels were below the reference range in 46.5% of patients and iron deficiency was detected in 29.5%, confirming that nutritional deficiencies are a common and measurable finding in women presenting with hair shedding.
Karakoyun O, et al. Retrospective Review of 2851 Female Patients With Telogen Effluvium: A Single-Center Experience. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(2):e70037. PMID: 39950230. doi.org/10.1111/jocd.70037
Relevant to: Post Pregnancy Hair Strength Support Supplement (AUST L 413607), Post Pregnancy Support Kit
The Growth Bomb standard
We select every active based on published evidence or manufacturer clinical data. We dose for efficacy, not for the label. And we're transparent about what the research shows and where it sits on the evidence spectrum - because you deserve to know exactly what you're putting on your scalp and why.
Growth Bomb products are cosmetic formulations. References to published research on this page relate to ingredient-level studies conducted independently of Growth Bomb's specific formulas. Always read the label and follow directions for use. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.
