Biom Biolab Launches Doctor Lactocell Scalp Serum for Hair Loss & Scalp Health
A new approach to scalp health and hair growth is emerging, centered around the microbiome – the ecosystem of microorganisms living on the skin. Biome Biolab has recently launched three “Doctor LactoCell Microbiome Scalp Tonic Serum” products: a 20ml rolling-type serum, a 120ml spray, and a 120ml scalp massager. These products build upon the company’s existing ‘Lactocel’ skincare line.
The Science Behind the Scalp Serum
The new serum is based on a “composition for preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth” – patent application number 2024-0168488 – with an international patent application (PCT/KR2025/011964) underway. The formulation utilizes a complex fermentation technology (EMBC) and incorporates extracts from clove, rice, rosemary, and cinnamon. It also includes menthol, salicylic acid, panthenol, and soluble collagen, all ingredients recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
From Farm Observation to Scalp Health
The development of this serum is the culmination of 20 years of research led by Jeong Normal-yeop, a research and development specialist. The initial spark for this work came from observing a positive change in the coats of cattle after the application of complex lactic acid bacteria at a farm in Gyeonggi Province. This observation led to an investigation into the scalp and hair environment.
The Role of the Scalp Microbiome
Biome Biolab views hair as an extension of the skin and prioritizes the scalp ecosystem. The company believes that lactic acid bacteria can help reduce harmful bacteria on the scalp and create an environment where hair follicles aren’t stalled, potentially mitigating excessive hair loss. In the growth phase, these bacteria may help stabilize the hair. The complex fermented lactic acid bacteria are designed to shift the scalp environment to a beneficial state through metabolic byproducts and anti-inflammatory, anti-aging components.
This process aims to simultaneously suppress harmful bacteria and promote beneficial ones, reducing inflammation and increasing microbial diversity. These changes are believed to be linked to improved hair growth and scalp health. Stabilizing the scalp microbiome with probiotics is intended to restore overall scalp balance.
Potential Benefits Observed
Research suggests the composition may promote the growth of hair follicle cells and inhibit 5α-reductase, a factor in hair loss, while increasing the expression of hair growth factors FGF7, FGF10, and EGF. In company experiments, individuals with androgenetic alopecia showed increased hair density, with a fourfold increase in scalp lactic acid bacteria and a twofold increase in microbial diversity. Improvements in dandruff and itchiness were also noted, linked to the suppression of Pityrosporum ovale and an increase in beneficial bacteria like S.epidermidis.
Improvements in hair and skin health were also observed, including reduced oxidative stress, increased levels of the antioxidant enzyme SOD, and increased hair thickness, follicle count, and skin layer thickness. A reduction in systemic inflammation may also improve nutrient supply.
Microbiome Stabilization and Future Research
The stabilization of the scalp microbiome was associated with a maximum threefold increase in lactic acid bacteria diversity and a decrease in S.caprae, a bacterium linked to alopecia areata. Biome Biolab plans to further refine the product through joint research with Inha University and Inha University Hospital, including clinical trials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in the Doctor LactoCell Microbiome Scalp Tonic Serum?
The serum combines complex fermented lactic acid bacteria, plant extracts (clove, rice, rosemary, cinnamon), and functional ingredients certified by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, including menthol, salicylic acid, panthenol, and soluble collagen.
What was the origin of the research behind this product?
The research began with an observation of improved coat quality in cattle after the application of complex lactic acid bacteria at a farm in Gyeonggi Province, leading to an investigation of the scalp and hair environment.
What is the intended effect of the lactic acid bacteria on the scalp?
The lactic acid bacteria are intended to reduce harmful bacteria, create a favorable environment for hair growth, and stabilize the scalp microbiome, potentially leading to improved hair health and reduced hair loss.
Could a focus on the scalp microbiome represent a significant shift in how we approach hair and scalp health?