In this randomized, double-blind study, Chinese menopausal women (ages 45-60) supplemented with either 50mg of Pycnogenol or placebo three times daily with meals for six months. At the beginning of the study, and again at two and six months, the researchers took digital photos of the participants’ hair, which were further evaluated by computer software to track changes in hair thickness. They also measured blood vessel function and moisture loss in the scalp using specialized devices.

The results showed a significant increase in hair thickness in the Pycnogenol group, peaking at 30 percent above baseline at two months, and remaining elevated at 23 percent above baseline at six months, while no significant changes were observed in the placebo group. Taking Pycnogenol also showed clear benefits to the scalp, including improved blood vessel function and circulation and reduced moisture loss, effects that were not observed with placebo.

Pycnogenol is well known for its impact on vascular function, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and for promoting healthy circulation, which were likely key contributors to the improvements in scalp health and hair thickness observed in this study. These effects can also support the normal function of cells involved in maintaining hair follicles. Together, this may help women in menopause enjoy fuller, healthier-looking hair.

Forever Chemicals Linked to Higher Risk of Liver Disease in Adolescents

PFAS, a group of compounds known as “forever chemicals” for their ability to persist in the environment, may also play a role in the development of liver disease. A 2026 study² of adolescents and young adults found that higher blood levels of certain PFAS were linked to greater odds of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), particularly during adolescence. Because associations were strongest in adolescence—a period when the liver and metabolic systems are still maturing—this life stage may represent a particularly sensitive window for PFAS-related effects on liver health.

It’s estimated that up to 14,000 different PFAS compounds are accumulating in the environment.³ These man-made chemicals contain exceptionally strong bonds, making them highly resistant to breakdown and enabling them to linger in the environment forever. PFAS also bioaccumulate in humans, where they act as endocrine disruptors⁴ and have been linked to a range of health concerns beyond liver disease, including impaired immunity, reduced fertility, and several types of cancer.⁵

One practical way to reduce exposure is to steer clear of products labeled “stain-resistant,” “grease-resistant,” or “waterproof,” terms that often signal the presence of PFAS.⁶ These properties also point to everyday items where PFAS are commonly found: non-stick cookware, carpeting, synthetic fabrics, and fast-food packaging—a notable source, as many adolescents frequently consume fast food. Water is another common source of PFAS, so drinking filtered water can help reduce exposure; both reverse osmosis and activated carbon have been shown to effectively remove these compounds.⁷ And finally, eat organic food as much as possible—organic standards do not allow the use of toxic pesticides, many of which now contain PFAS.⁸ Because PFAS exposures accumulate over time, taking small but consistent steps toward reducing contact can make a meaningful difference for long-term health and wellbeing.

References

1. Cai, C., Zeng, B., et al. (2023). An oral French maritime pine bark extract improves hair density in menopausal women: A randomized, placebo controlled, double blind intervention study. Health Sci Rep; 6:e1045. https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.1045
2. Li, S., Chen, J.C., Costello, E. et al. (2026). Associations between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in adolescents and young adults: Modifying roles of age, lifestyle factors, and PNPLA3 genotype. Environ Res. 288(Pt 2):123320. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.123320
3. Yale Office of Sustainability. (2025, May 20). Yale experts explain PFAS “forever chemicals.” Yale University. https://sustainability.yale.edu/explainers/yale-experts-explain-pfas-fo…
4. Endocrine Society. (n.d.). PFAS chemicals: EDCs contaminating our water and food supply. Endocrine Society. https://www.endocrine.org/topics/edc/what-edcs-are/common-edcs/pfas
5.  Yale Office of Sustainability. (2025, May 20). Yale experts explain PFAS “forever chemicals.” Yale University. https://sustainability.yale.edu/explainers/yale-experts-explain-pfas-fo…
6. Amarelo, M. (2022, January 26). New tests find toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in bedding, yoga pants and other textiles. Environmental Working Group. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2022/01/new-tests-find-toxic-for…
7. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2018, August 23). Reducing PFAS in drinking water with treatment technologies. https://www.epa.gov/sciencematters/reducing-pfas-drinking-water-treatme…
8. Center for Food Safety | PFAS in Pesticides | | PFAS in Pesticides. (n.d.). Center for Food Safety. https://www.centerforfoodsafety.org/issues/6927/forever-chemicals/pfas-…