Inside the Hair Growth Hype: Science, Serum, and What Really Matters

Across social media, glossy clinical “breakthroughs” promise thicker hair in months. Every week there’s a new hero ingredient, a new chart, a new before-and-after that looks too perfect to be real. If you’re currently dealing with thinning hair, it’s easy to feel like you’re one product away from fixing everything, especially when the marketing is loud and the science is presented like a mic drop.

But how reliable are these claims, and where do natural options fit into a truly effective routine, especially if your hair is going through hormonal shifts like postpartum hair loss? The reality is that hair growth is rarely about one miracle ingredient. It’s about a consistent, evidence-informed approach that supports the scalp environment, strengthens fragile strands, and helps follicles do what they’re designed to do over time.

In this post, we’ll unpack what the latest “buzzed-about” clinical claims are really saying, what they often leave out, and how a natural hair growth serum can still play a powerful role, particularly when you choose a targeted scalp serum designed to support circulation, comfort, and density.

What the study claims (and what’s missing)

A 2025 corporate clinical study currently circulating online reported up to 30% improvement in hair density after five months using a copper peptide-based formula. It compared several products, placing drug-based treatments like finasteride and minoxidil below its peptide complex. The numbers sound impressive, and copper peptides have plausible biological mechanisms that make the claim feel “science-backed.”

The issue isn’t that the concept is impossible. The issue is credibility.

When a study isn’t peer-reviewed, doesn’t publish full data, lacks a control group, or doesn’t clearly explain how measurements were taken, it becomes difficult to interpret what actually happened. Sometimes “improvement” is calculated in a way that flatters the product. Sometimes the participants are carefully selected. Sometimes the study conditions are nothing like real life (perfect compliance, controlled routines, no competing products, frequent clinic monitoring).

Credibility rating: Low–Medium. The mechanism may be promising, but without independent verification, consumers should treat the headline numbers as interesting, not definitive.

So what should you do with that information? Keep the curiosity, but don’t build your entire hair routine around one unverified claim. Instead, focus on the fundamentals that have the best chance of moving the needle regardless of whether you choose peptides, botanicals, or a combination.

What actually matters for hair growth

Hair health usually comes back to four biological levers. If your routine supports these, you’re playing the long game in the right direction.

1. Follicle stimulation

Hair follicles need blood flow, oxygen, and nutrient delivery. When circulation is sluggish or the scalp environment is compromised, growth can feel slow and hair can look finer. This is where massage, scalp care, and certain actives that support micro-circulation can be helpful.

2. Inflammation control

An irritated scalp can quietly sabotage progress. Sensitivity, itchiness, excess oil, or flaking can all create an environment where follicles don’t thrive. Supporting comfort and balance matters, especially if you’re using styling products or washing less frequently.

3. Hormonal and stress-related triggers

For many people, thinning hair isn’t only about follicles, it’s about what’s happening systemically. Stress, sleep disruption, nutritional gaps, and hormonal fluctuations can all influence shedding patterns. This is particularly relevant during postpartum hair loss, when the hair cycle shifts after pregnancy.

4. Cell signalling and the growth cycle

Healthy hair growth depends on the follicle spending enough time in the growth (anagen) phase. Some ingredients aim to support signals associated with follicle activity and strength. Whether it’s peptides or plant extracts, the goal is similar: encourage the scalp to behave like a healthier, more growth-supportive environment.

Copper peptides and botanical extracts can both contribute. Peptides are often discussed in terms of collagen support and signalling pathways, while herbs are frequently used for scalp comfort, circulation support, and overall hair quality. The “right” choice often comes down to tolerance, consistency, and whether the formula suits your scalp.

Where natural formulas fit (and why they’re not “less scientific”)

Natural doesn’t mean weak. It means the approach often focuses on supporting the scalp ecosystem and reducing the factors that hold your hair back, instead of forcing dramatic change overnight. For people who want something that fits easily into daily life and feels gentle enough to keep using, a botanical scalp serum can be a smart middle ground.

The biggest advantage of natural routines is consistency. You’re far more likely to stick with something that feels good on your scalp, doesn’t leave residue, and doesn’t clash with your styling habits. And consistency is where results usually come from, especially when you’re navigating thinning hair and want visible improvement over months, not days.

Where Dushi fits

Dushi’s Rapid Hair Growth Serum focuses on botanical bioactivity rather than synthetic peptides. It’s a concentrated, leave-in hair growth serum designed to help improve scalp circulation and support hair thickness, while strengthening and protecting the strands.

It’s also been recognised as a Mum Central 2024 Awards Bronze Winner in the Best Product for Pregnancy Recovery category, which matters because postpartum hair loss is one of the most common concerns mums talk about in that season of life.

Here’s how the key ingredients support a multi-factor approach:

Nigella sativa (black cumin)

Often used for scalp support, black cumin is valued for its soothing properties and is commonly included in routines targeting scalp comfort and balance.

Panax ginseng extract

Ginseng is frequently linked with micro-circulation support and is a popular ingredient in scalp care routines designed to energise the roots.

Liquorice root extract

Liquorice is known for calming properties, making it especially relevant if your scalp tends to feel irritated or reactive.

Hydrolysed soy protein

Proteins help support the hair fibre itself. When hair is breaking easily or feels weaker through the lengths, this kind of support can make the hair look and feel healthier while you work on new growth.

Together, these ingredients support the same big objective as many “high-tech” formulas: better scalp conditions, stronger strands, and a more supportive environment for growth, with a naturally gentler feel for many users.

Why this matters for postpartum hair loss

Postpartum hair loss can feel sudden. One day your hair looks normal, the next you’re pulling more out in the shower and noticing extra shedding around the hairline. While it’s often temporary, that doesn’t make it any less stressful, especially when you’re already running on low sleep.

In postpartum seasons, your routine needs to be realistic. A leave-in scalp serum that’s fast-absorbing and non-greasy can be easier to maintain than complicated multi-step systems. And because results rely heavily on time and consistency, your best option is usually the product you’ll actually use daily.

Routine tips for best results using Dushi’s Rapid Hair Growth Serum

Consistency

Apply once daily to a clean scalp, focusing on affected areas. If you can only do one thing, do the application and a brief massage. Even 60 seconds helps you stay consistent and supports distribution across the scalp.

Massage for absorption

Massage for 1–2 minutes to support absorption and stimulate the scalp. This step also helps you become more aware of where your thinning hair is most noticeable so you can apply strategically.

Timeline

Give it 8–12 weeks before judging progress. With natural actives, results are usually gradual. Early wins may look like less oiliness, a calmer scalp, fewer flyaways, and improved hair feel before density changes become obvious.

Synergy (optional)

If your skin tolerates it, pairing with a gentle scalp tool (like Dushi Hair Growth Derma Roller) may support penetration and micro-circulation. This is optional, and it’s not for everyone, especially sensitive scalps.

Lifestyle support

Sleep, protein intake, iron status, stress management, and gentle hair handling all amplify results. A hair growth serum works best as part of a bigger routine, not as a replacement for fundamentals.

Proof and realistic expectations

Herbal serums typically provide steady support rather than dramatic reversal. Signs of progress often show up as:

• fewer hairs shedding over time

• improved texture and softness

• stronger hair through the lengths

• a fuller-looking ponytail or less “see-through” part over successive months

If you notice mild shedding early on, don’t panic. Sometimes routine changes and stimulation can shift the timing of shedding. But if shedding is intense, patchy, or lasts beyond what feels normal for you, consider checking in with a GP or dermatologist to rule out underlying causes.

Mini FAQ

Is it safe for sensitive scalps?

Dushi is designed as a botanical-focused scalp serum and is intended to be non-oily and fast absorbing. Still, sensitive scalps vary, so patch-testing is a smart step.

How long does it take to notice results?

Many people notice hair feel and manageability changes within 2–4 weeks, while visible thickening typically takes 2–3 months of daily use.

Can it be used with minoxidil or other serums?

Often yes, but apply at different times of day so you don’t dilute either product and to help you track how your scalp responds.

Does it cause shedding at first?

Some people notice temporary shedding. If it’s mild and short-lived, it may be part of follicle turnover. If it’s significant or concerning, stop and seek professional advice.

Do I need a derma roller?

Optional. It may enhance penetration for some people, but it’s not necessary for everyone and should be used carefully.

Should I patch-test first?

Yes. Apply a small amount to the inner arm and wait 24 hours before full use.

Ready to explore nature’s potential for stronger, thicker hair?

👉 See Dushi Rapid Hair Growth Serum — with ginseng, black cumin, and soy protein for scalp vitality and hair strength.