FAQ

Questions and answers about ribogrow

General Questions

What is the active ingredient 2-deoxy-D-ribose and how does it work?

2-Deoxy-D-Ribose (2dDR) is a naturally occurring sugar molecule that plays a central role in human biochemistry. It is a modified form of ribose and a component of the DNA backbone.

Several preclinical studies published in peer-reviewed journals (including Frontiers in Pharmacology) have shown that 2dDR improves blood circulation in the skin by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stimulating the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). This improved blood supply to the hair follicles stimulates hair growth.

A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Pharmacology (Anjum et al., 2024) shows that 2dDR achieves comparable results to minoxidil-based solutions, without some of the associated side effects. A detailed overview of the scientific evidence can be found in the question "What does the science say about the effect in humans?" below.
More information is available on the product page.

What does the science say about the effect in humans?

The efficacy of 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose has been investigated in several studies. Here is a selection:

Stimulation of hair growth in an animal model of androgenetic alopecia with 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose Muhammad Awais Anjum et al. (2024), Frontiers in Pharmacology Result: The study shows that 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose effectively stimulates hair growth in an animal model of hereditary hair loss, achieving comparable results to the FDA-approved drug Minoxidil.

2-Deoxy-D-Ribose upregulates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stimulates angiogenesis Serkan Dikici et al. (2020), PubMed Result: 2dDR stimulates the formation of new blood vessels through increased VEGF production, a mechanism that is also crucial for the nutrient supply to hair follicles.

Development of wound dressings with 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose for the induction of angiogenesis Serkan Dikici et al. (2021), NCBI Result: This study confirms the angiogenic potential of 2dDR in a different application context and supports the underlying mechanism of action, which is also relevant for the stimulation of hair follicles.

Are these results transferable to humans? The transferability of the study results to humans is considered scientifically plausible. The biological mechanisms of hair follicle regeneration are similar in mammals, and the antioxidant effects observed in the studies, as well as the promotion of cell proliferation, also play a crucial role in the human hair follicle.

In addition to conducting our own clinical studies, we continuously improve our formulas and active ingredient combinations in close collaboration with experts, to ensure that our products are not only highly effective but also particularly well tolerated.

Are there any side effects?

ribogrow products are formulated to minimize the risk of side effects. The formula uses as few ingredients as possible, free from fragrances, colorants, and unnecessary additives, to ensure maximum tolerability.

The products Hair Booster Serum and Hair Booster Tonic have been independently tested by Dermatest with the top rating of "Excellent" certifying the best possible skin compatibility.

The vast majority of users tolerate ribogrow very well.

However, if you have a particularly sensitive scalp or are allergic to one of the ingredients, mild irritations may occur in rare cases. We recommend checking the full list of ingredients before first use.

ribogrow contains no Minoxidil or Finasteride and is therefore not associated with the side effects commonly linked to minoxidil-based treatments.

How long does it take for ribogrow to work?

The time to visible results varies from person to person and depends on factors such as genetic predisposition, the stage of hair loss, and the regularity of application.

With consistent twice-daily application, most users can notice first changes after 2–4 months. Patience and regularity are key — a higher dosage does not accelerate results, but applying too little or skipping applications should be avoided.

What you can typically expect:

  • Months 1–2: The rate of hair loss begins to stabilize.
  • Months 2–4: First signs of improved hair density may become visible.
  • From month 4 onwards: Continued improvement with regular use.

To maintain the effect of ribogrow, long-term use is recommended, as the product only works for as long as it is applied.

What do the studies say about the active ingredient

A recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology shows promising results regarding the use of 2-deoxy-D-ribose to promote hair growth. This study used an animal model of androgenetic alopecia to investigate the effectiveness of the sugar. The results suggest that 2-deoxy-D-ribose can significantly promote hair follicle regeneration by increasing the rate of cell division and reducing oxidative stress in the hair follicles.

The researchers found that after regular use of 2-deoxy-D-ribose, the treated animals had increased hair density compared to a control group. This suggests that the substance has the potential to support hair growth and combat hair loss. The study highlights the antioxidant properties of 2-deoxy-D-ribose, which help protect hair follicles from free radical damage.

These results are particularly promising because oxidative stress is one of the main causes of weakening and loss of hair follicles. By reducing this stress, 2-deoxy-D-ribose could offer an effective, natural solution to promote hair growth.

What other studies are there?

The effectiveness of 2-deoxy-D-ribose has been confirmed in numerous studies. Here is a selection:

Stimulation of hair regrowth in an animal model of androgenic alopecia using 2-deoxy-D-ribose
link
Muhammad Awais Anjum et al. (2024)
Result: The study shows that the 2-deoxy-D-ribose hydrogel effectively stimulates hair growth in an animal model of androgenetic alopecia¹ and achieves similar results to the FDA-approved drug minoxidil.

2-deoxy-d-ribose (2dDR) upregulates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stimulates angiogenesis
link
Serkan Dikici et al. (2020)
Conclusion: This study suggests that 2-deoxy-D-ribose stimulates angiogenesis² by increasing VEGF​​³ production.

Developing Wound Dressings Using 2-deoxy-D-Ribose to Induce Angiogenesis as a Backdoor Route for Stimulating the Production of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
link
Serkan Dikici et al. (2021)
Conclusion: This study suggests that the addition of 2dDR to conventional wound dressings may provide a cost-effective and easy-to-use proangiogenic solution for the treatment of chronic, non-healing wounds.


¹ hereditary hair loss
² Angiogenesis is the biological process by which new blood vessels are formed from pre-existing capillaries. This process is essential for the growth and regeneration of tissues as it ensures the supply of oxygen and nutrients. Angiogenesis is crucial for supplying hair follicles with oxygen, nutrients and other important growth factors. Hair follicles are surrounded by a dense network of blood vessels that supply them during the growth cycle. Good blood circulation is necessary to provide sufficient nutrients to the hair follicles and support hair growth.
³ Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a signaling protein that plays a crucial role in angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). It promotes the growth and permeability of blood vessels, especially in tissues that are deprived of oxygen.

In addition to scientific studies, we continuously improve our formulas in close cooperation with experts. This way we ensure that our products are not only highly effective, but also particularly well tolerated.

Why is ribogrow odorless and colorless?

The idea behind ribogrow was to develop a naturally effective remedy for hair loss that comes with no side effects. That’s why our formulas are kept as simple as possible—free from unnecessary additives and focused on maximum effectiveness.

Fragrances and colorants, including natural ones like essential oils, can cause irritation not only in allergy sufferers but also on healthy skin. They are among the most frequently reported triggers of contact allergies, and about one in five people reacts sensitively to them—often without knowing it.

That’s why ribogrow relies on formulas without fragrances or colorants.

A slightly yellowish or greenish coloration is completely normal. It is caused by the natural plant-based active ingredients that work together with 2-deoxy-D-ribose in the active ingredient matrix to stimulate the hair root. This color nuance has no negative influence on the quality of the product.

Is a slightly yellowish or greenish coloration normal?

Yes, a slightly yellowish or greenish coloration is completely normal. It is caused by the natural plant-based active ingredients that work together with 2-deoxy-D-ribose in the active ingredient matrix to stimulate the hair root. This color nuance has no negative influence on the quality of the product.

Product

What is the difference between Serum and Tonic?

Hair Booster Serum and Hair Booster Tonic contain the same active ingredients at the same concentration and are equally suitable and effective for both men and women. The main difference lies in the method of application:

Hair Booster Tonic Light texture with a spray head – ideal if you have short hair, want to treat advanced hair loss, or need to reach targeted areas such as the temples or tonsure. The fine mist distributes the tonic evenly across the scalp without weighing it down.

Hair Booster Serum Light texture with a pipette – ideal if you have longer hair, want thicker/more voluminous hair, or wish to treat the scalp with pinpoint precision. The pipette delivers the serum directly to the scalp without wetting or weighing down the lengths.

Both products are equally effective, the choice simply comes down to personal preference and hair length.

What is the active ingredient concentration in the Hair Booster Tonic?

The exact concentration of the active ingredients is not disclosed for reasons of trade secrecy. However, we can share the following:

The concentration of 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose used in ribogrow is deliberately set higher than the values reported in published studies. This is intended to ensure a noticeable effect in everyday use, without taking unnecessary risks. The formulation also places particular emphasis on optimizing the bioavailability, stability, and synergistic effect of the entire active ingredient matrix.

Our formulas are developed in close collaboration with dermatologists and pharmacists and are continuously refined based on the latest scientific findings.

Because we are so confident in the efficacy, our attractively priced 3-pack of the Hair Booster line can be tested with a 100-day money-back guarantee. This allows the effectiveness to be assessed personally and without any risk.

Are ribogrow's products suitable for both men and women?

Yes, ribogrow can be used regardless of gender with equal effectiveness.

The active ingredients - 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose, Caffeine, and Pisum Sativum Extract - are well tolerated and effective regardless of gender. They support hair growth, strengthen the hair roots, and improve the nutrient supply to the scalp.

ribogrow has no hormonal effects and does not interfere with the hormonal balance. It is therefore particularly suitable for women with diffuse, hormonally induced, or stress-related hair loss, including during sensitive life phases such as after pregnancy or during the various stages of menopause.

As a topical product, ribogrow can also be used safely during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Is ribogrow vegan?

Yes, ribogrow products are vegan.

Is ribogrow tested on animals?

No, ribogrow is not tested on animals.

Why does ribogrow Hair Booster line contain alcohol?

Alcohol fulfils three important functions in ribogrow:

  1. Preservation: Alcohol acts as a natural preservative, protecting the product from bacteria and germs without the use of additional chemical preservatives.
  2. Improved absorption: Alcohol temporarily increases the permeability of the scalp, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate more effectively and work where they are needed.
  3. Fast drying: Thanks to the alcohol content, ribogrow dries quickly after application and leaves no residue — ideal for daily use, even on fine or oily hair.

The alcohol used is skin-compatible and is applied at a concentration tailored to the sensitive scalp.

Why does ribogrow use a serum or tonic rather than a gel?

The term "deoxyribose gel" is sometimes used in connection with 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose products, as some early studies used a hydrogel as a carrier. However, a serum or tonic offers clear advantages over a gel:

  1. Better skin penetration: A water/alcohol-based formula dissolves the skin barrier more effectively, allowing the active ingredients to reach the hair follicles more efficiently than through a gel.
  2. No stickiness: A serum or tonic evaporates quickly and does not weigh the hair down — an important factor for people who are already mindful of hair volume.

The twice-daily application of ribogrow compensates for the more consistent release that a gel would offer, while simultaneously enabling better absorption and a more pleasant everyday experience.

Application

How is ribogrow Hair Booster Tonic used?

Spray ribogrow Hair Booster Tonic twice daily onto the areas affected by hair loss, morning and evening, approximately 5 sprays per application. Apply the product to dry or towel-dried hair, not to wet hair, to ensure optimal absorption of the active ingredients.

Distribute the tonic with your fingertips or the ribogrow silicone scalp brush and gently massage it in for 1–2 minutes. Wash your hands after application to avoid accidental contact with the eyes.

Close the bottle after use and store it in a cool, shaded place. After approximately 10 minutes, you can style your hair as usual. Avoid getting the scalp wet for approximately 4 hours after application to ensure maximum effectiveness. One bottle is designed for approximately one month of use.

How is the ribogrow Hair Booster Serum used?

Apply the ribogrow Hair Booster serum twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening) to the areas of the scalp affected by hair loss. It is best to part the hair beforehand so that the serum reaches the scalp directly. The amount is approximately 2 pipettes (press once, do not fill completely) per application.

The fill volume of one bottle is designed for one month of use.

Distribute the serum with your fingertips or the ribogrow silicone scalp brush over the affected areas and gently massage it in for 1–2 minutes. Wash your hands after application to avoid accidental contact with the eyes.

After use, close the ribogrow Hair Booster Serum and store it in a cool, shaded place. After approximately 10 minutes, you can style your hair as usual; however, you should avoid getting the scalp wet for approximately 4 hours to ensure maximum effectiveness.

How long should the ribogrow Hair Booster Line products be used for?

The ribogrow Hair Booster line is designed to stabilize hereditary hair loss and provide long-term support for hair growth. To maintain the effect, continuous use is recommended, the product only works for as long as it is applied regularly.

With twice-daily application, first results are typically expected after 2–4 months. One bottle lasts approximately one month.

ribogrow can be combined with other hair loss treatments. However, it should be fully absorbed before other products are applied to the affected areas.

A higher dosage does not improve results. To achieve optimal outcomes, applying too little or using the product irregularly should be avoided.

Return and Warranty

How does the 100 days money-back guarantee work?

For 3-month bundles of the Hair Booster line, we offer a voluntary extended 100-day money-back guarantee in addition to the statutory right of withdrawal. If you are not satisfied with your purchase and have used a maximum of three bottles (150 ml in total), the product can be returned with a full refund of the purchase price. Please note that shipping costs cannot be refunded.

The guarantee applies exclusively under the following conditions:

  • 3-month bundles of the Hair Booster line only: The guarantee does not apply to individually purchased units, even if multiple individual units were purchased.
  • Once per person: The guarantee can only be claimed once per person, regardless of the number of orders placed.
  • Once per household and delivery address: Even if multiple people from the same household place orders, the guarantee will only be granted once.
  • No simultaneous follow-up purchase: The guarantee becomes void if, at the time of the return or guarantee request, a further order of the same product exists or has existed for the same person, the same household, or the same delivery address.

To initiate a return under the guarantee, please contact our customer service via the contact form.

Statutory right of withdrawal: Beyond the 100-day guarantee, all customers have the statutory right to withdraw from their purchase within 14 days of receiving the goods, regardless of the product purchased. All information regarding the right of withdrawal can be found on our page under Widerrufsrecht.

How does a return work under the 100-day money-back guarantee?

If you would like to return a product under our 100-day money-back guarantee, please first contact our customer service via the contact form, providing your order number and order date, before sending anything back.

Our customer service team will inform you of the next steps for the return.

Once your return has been received, we will review whether it can be refunded under the applicable conditions. This review may take up to 5 business days.

After a successful review, the refund of the purchase price will be initiated via the payment method used at the time of purchase.

Please note:

  • Shipping costs cannot be refunded.
  • The cost of the return shipment is borne by the sender.

How does a return work under the statutory right of withdrawal?

All information can be found in the cancellation policy (https://ribogrow.com/policies/refund-policy) on our website.

What should I do if the order was delivered incorrectly?

We are sorry about that! Please contact our customer service via the contact form as soon as possible. To help us resolve the issue quickly, please have the following information ready:

  • Your order number
  • A brief description of the problem (e.g. wrong product, missing item)
  • If possible, a photo of the delivered contents

We will get back to you promptly and make sure that the correct product reaches you.

Shipping & Delivery

How long does delivery usually take?

We ship all orders with DHL or Deutsche Post and their international partner companies.

The delivery time depends on your location:

  • Germany: 2–4 business days
  • EU countries: 2–8 business days
  • Switzerland, United Kingdom, Norway: 3–8 business days

Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a shipping confirmation with a tracking link to the email address provided at the time of the order. This allows you to track your delivery at any time.

For deliveries to non-customs-free destination countries, we unfortunately have no influence on the duration of the customs clearance process.

What's are the shipping costs?

Standard shipping is free for all orders, regardless of your location or order value. There is no minimum order value.

Please note that for shipments to non-customs-free areas, customs clearance fees as well as duties may apply. These are to be borne by the recipient.

Which countries can ribogrow products be delivered to?

We deliver throughout Europe, to all EU member states as well as to Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Norway.

If your country should not be available at checkout, please contact us via the contact form, we will be happy to help.

Do you deliver to Switzerland?

Yes, we deliver to Switzerland. No additional shipping costs apply.

Please note that shipments to Switzerland may be subject to customs duties upon arrival. All orders are dispatched with the necessary customs documentation. Any customs fees or import duties are to be borne by the person placing the order.

How does shipping to non-customs-free areas outside the EU work?

Shipments to non-customs-free areas outside the EU may be subject to customs duties upon arrival. All orders are dispatched by us with the necessary customs documentation.

Any customs fees or import duties are to be borne by the person placing the order.

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