Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss: 2020 Systematic Review Research Summary
This is a plain-language summary of the original published research. We do not add conclusions or opinions of our own. This is not medical advice — consult a certified healthcare practitioner before making any decision.
Original research published in Skin Appendage Disorders, 2020
Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss: 2020 Systematic Review Research Summary
Study conclusion
This systematic review of 7 studies (5 RCTs and 2 prospective cohort studies) found positive effects of topical and oral saw palmetto for pattern hair loss. About 60% of participants reported improvement in hair quality and 27% improvement in hair count. However, the evidence base is thin and study quality was variable.
Strength of evidence
Who it applies to
Who was studied
Adults with pattern hair loss — men and women. 7 studies using topical or oral saw palmetto at doses of 100-320mg daily.
Who was NOT studied
People with hair loss types other than androgenetic alopecia. Older adults beyond included study populations.
What to look for when shopping
Saw palmetto supplements are available without prescription. No saw palmetto product is FDA-approved for hair loss. Evidence quality is low to moderate.
What research cannot help you decide
How saw palmetto compares to FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil or finasteride in a direct head-to-head trial. Whether oral or topical administration is more effective. Which specific product or standardised extract works best.
Key findings
- About 60% of participants across included studies reported improvement in hair quality
- About 27% improvement in hair count was reported across studies
- Both topical and oral saw palmetto (100-320mg) showed positive effects in the included studies
- Evidence quality was variable — most studies were small with design limitations
- No saw palmetto product is FDA-approved for hair loss
What this study does not show
- 1.How saw palmetto compares to minoxidil or finasteride in a direct head-to-head trial.
- 2.Whether the dose or preparation (oral vs topical, extract standardisation) affects results.
- 3.Long-term effects beyond the study periods.
Limitations
- 1.Small study samples across most included trials.
- 2.Heterogeneous saw palmetto preparations and doses across studies.
- 3.Variable study quality — some included cohort studies with limited controls.
- 4.No saw palmetto product is FDA-approved for hair loss.
- 5.No direct comparison with established treatments.
Used in these articles
Links added as fact-checks and articles citing this study are published.