Re: Is there any way to actually increase the rate of hair growth on the head?

Dane,

That's a great question - and one that is worth a fortune!!! You can bet that if there was a sure fire way to improve hair growth, many companies would be selling it!! At present there is almost nothing that works well. There is a drug that is rubbed on the scalp - Minoxadil, also called Rogaine, that the manufacturers claim works well. You can find out more information at http://www.rogaineonline.com/

As for Jell-o I wish it did. I would try some myself.

One last point, the TV commercial here in Australia shows a guy and his bald Dad and talks about inheritable hair loss. This is misleading as male pattern baldness is inherited from the mother's side. Basically, if you want to know your chances of going bald, look at your mother's brothers.

Hope this answers your question - and thanks for using the Mad Scientist Network

Dr Jim

[Moderator's Note: Regarding the sun, the scalp is as susceptible to skin damage (and cancer) as any other area of skin exposed to UV rays from the sun. It's always a good idea to wear a hat or sunscreen when you go outside...]