FAQ

2-Deoxy-D-ribose (2dDR) is a sugar molecule that plays a central role in biochemistry. It is a modified form of ribose, a sugar found in RNA. For example, 2dDR supports the stability of the double helix in the DNA backbone.

A study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology found that treatment with the natural sugar could be just as effective as minoxidil-based solutions, but without some of the negative side effects.

In several preclinical studies, 2-deoxy-D-ribose has been shown to increase blood flow to the skin. It upregulates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stimulates angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. This increased blood flow could also stimulate hair growth.

More information is available on the product page

The unique formulation of the products, which focuses on using as few ingredients as possible, is designed to ensure there are no known side effects.

Most users tolerate ribogrow® well. However, in cases of sensitive scalp or allergies to any of the ingredients, irritation may occur. We recommend checking the ingredients before the first application.

The time it takes for ribogrow® to work varies from person to person. As a rule, initial results are visible after 3 months. Patience and regular application are important to achieve optimal results.

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

The researchers found that the treated animals exhibited increased hair density compared to a control group after regular application of 2-deoxy-D-ribose. 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 to protect hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals.

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

The transferability of the results to humans is considered plausible, as the underlying biological mechanisms of hair follicle regeneration are similar in mammals and the mechanism of action described here is well transferable from animal models to humans in other areas. In particular, the antioxidant effects and the promotion of cell proliferation observed in the animal study are processes that also play a crucial role in the human hair follicle.

The efficacy of 2-deoxy-D-ribose has been confirmed in numerous studies. Below 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 2-deoxy-D-ribose hydrogel effectively stimulates hair growth in an animal model for androgenetic alopecia¹ and achieves results similar 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)
Result: This study suggests that 2-deoxy-D-ribose stimulates angiogenesis² by increasing VEGF³ 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)
Result: This study suggests that adding 2dDR to conventional wound dressings could offer a cost-effective and easy-to-use pro-angiogenic solution for treating 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 critical 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 circulation is necessary to deliver sufficient nutrients to the hair follicles and support hair growth.
³Vascular 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, particularly in tissues with oxygen deficiency.

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

The following publications examine individual active ingredients of ribogrow®.

2-deoxy-D-ribose

1. Stimulation of hair regrowth in an animal model of androgenic alopecia using 2-deoxy-D-ribose
   Anjum M. A. et al., Frontiers in Pharmacology (2024)
   Animal study in mice with androgenetic alopecia¹: a gel containing 2-deoxy-D-ribose stimulated hair growth.
2. 2-deoxy-d-ribose (2dDR) upregulates vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stimulates angiogenesis
   Dikici S. et al., Microvascular Research (2020)
   Laboratory study: 2-deoxy-D-ribose promotes angiogenesis² by increasing the production of VEGF³.
3. Developing Wound Dressings Using 2-deoxy-D-Ribose to Induce Angiogenesis as a Backdoor Route for Stimulating the Production of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
   Dikici S. et al., International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2021)
   Review of the vessel-forming effect of 2-deoxy-D-ribose in laboratory and animal models, here in the context of wound dressings.

Caffeine

1. Effect of caffeine and testosterone on the proliferation of human hair follicles in vitro
   Fischer T. W. et al., International Journal of Dermatology (2007)
   Laboratory study on human hair follicles: caffeine counteracted the growth-inhibiting effect of testosterone and stimulated follicle growth.
2. Differential effects of caffeine on hair shaft elongation, matrix and outer root sheath keratinocyte proliferation, and transforming growth factor-β2/insulin-like growth factor-1-mediated regulation of the hair cycle in male and female human hair follicles in vitro
   Fischer T. W. et al., British Journal of Dermatology (2014)
   Laboratory study on hair follicles from men and women: caffeine promoted hair shaft growth and prolonged the growth phase (anagen).

Pisum sativum extract (AnaGain™)

1. AnaGain™: pea sprout extract
   Mibelle Biochemistry, manufacturer of the raw material
   According to the raw material manufacturer, the ratio of growth phase to resting phase (anagen/telogen) rose from 4 to 7.2 within 3 months in a study.

¹ Androgenetic alopecia: hereditary hair loss.
² Angiogenesis: the formation of new blood vessels from existing capillaries. Hair follicles are surrounded by a dense network of blood vessels that supplies them with oxygen and nutrients.
³ VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor): a signaling protein that controls the formation of new blood vessels.

The idea behind ribogrow® was to develop a naturally effective remedy for hair loss that has no known side effects. That is why our formulas are kept as simple as possible, without unnecessary additives, and are as effective as possible.

Fragrances and colorants, including natural ones like essential oils, can cause irritation not only in allergy sufferers but also on healthy skin. They are one of the most frequently cited causes of contact allergies, and about one in five people is sensitive to them – often without knowing it. That is why ribogrow® relies on formulas without fragrances and colorants.

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

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

Spray ribogrow® Hair Booster Tonic onto the areas of the scalp affected by hair loss twice daily. (1 application each morning and evening, approx. 5 sprays per application - one bottle is designed for one month of use)

Distribute the Tonic over the affected areas using 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 your eyes.

Close the ribogrow® Hair Booster Tonic after use and store in a cool, shaded place. You can style your hair as usual after approx. 10 minutes, but you should not dampen it for approx. 4 hours to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Apply the Hair Booster Serum twice a day, morning and evening, to the dry scalp in the affected areas – 2 pipettes per application (squeeze twice; the pipette does not need to be completely full). Gently massage the Serum in for 1–2 minutes with your fingertips or the ribogrow® silicone scalp brush, then wash your hands. After about 10 minutes you can style your hair; it should not get wet for about 4 hours. One bottle (50 ml) lasts about one month.

The ribogrow® Hair Booster Tonic was developed to stabilize hereditary hair loss. The effect depends on factors such as genetic predisposition, the stage of hair loss, and the previous use of other products. Initial results can be expected after 3 months with regular use (twice daily). A higher dosage does not improve the result, but you should also not use too little. One bottle lasts for about one month.

To maintain the effect of ribogrow®, it is recommended to continue use consistently. ribogrow® only works as long as it is being used.

The ribogrow® Hair Booster Tonic can be combined with other hair loss products, but it should be fully absorbed before applying other products.

One bottle of Tonic or Serum (50 ml) lasts about one month with twice-daily use. The 3-pack therefore covers the first 3 months – the period after which first results are usually visible.

It doesn't matter whether you use ribogrow® before or after washing your hair. Apply it to the dry scalp and then keep your scalp from getting wet for about 4 hours so that the active ingredients can absorb. You can style your hair after just about 10 minutes.

Like most cosmetic products, ribogrow® only works for as long as it is used. If you stop using it, the effect decreases.

Yes. ribogrow® is a cosmetic product and can be used together with other hair loss products. Only apply another product once ribogrow® has been fully absorbed. If you take prescription medication such as finasteride or want to stop using minoxidil, please talk to your doctor first.

Yes, once your scalp has healed and in consultation with your clinic. ribogrow® can support the hair follicles after a transplant.

Please talk to your doctor before using ribogrow® during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

From the age of 18.

Yes, you can also use ribogrow® on colored hair.

Yes, you can also use ribogrow® on your beard. However, beard hair grows differently from scalp hair, and there are no studies on its effect on the beard.

The Hair Booster Capsules are a food supplement with biotin, zinc and selenium, which contribute to the maintenance of normal hair, as well as saw palmetto fruit, green tea and bamboo extract, L-cysteine, vitamin E and copper. Take 1 capsule twice a day with plenty of liquid, not on an empty stomach. One pack of 60 capsules lasts one month. The capsules are vegan and non-hormonal and can be combined with the Tonic or Serum for the 3-month treatment. They are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or for people under 18.

The Hair Booster Serum and the Hair Booster Tonic differ primarily in how they are applied:
The Tonic is applied using a spray nozzle, while the Serum is dosed with a pipette. The concentration of active ingredients is identical in both products.
The pipette (Serum) is ideal for long hair, which is why we especially recommend the Serum for women. The spray nozzle (Tonic) is particularly practical for shorter hair, which is why we especially recommend the Tonic for men. Both products are nevertheless equally suitable for men and women.

The exact concentration of the active ingredients in the Hair Booster Tonic is not disclosed for internal company reasons. However, the formulation is based on current scientific findings and the best results from internal test series.

The concentration of 2-deoxy-D-ribose used is deliberately above the levels described in published studies to achieve a noticeable effect in practical application, without taking unnecessary risks. In addition, special emphasis was placed on bioavailability, stability, and the synergistic effect within FOLINODE™ technology during development.

The product can be tested without obligation – either as a single pack or in an attractively priced 3-pack with a 100-day money-back guarantee. This allows you to assess the effectiveness personally and risk-free.

Yes, the Hair Booster Tonic can also be used by women without any issues.
The active ingredients of FOLINODE™ technology—2-deoxy-D-ribose, caffeine, and Pisum sativum extract—are all well-tolerated and effective regardless of gender. They promote hair growth, strengthen the hair root, and improve the nutrient supply to the scalp.

Important to know:
The Tonic has no hormonal effects and does not interfere with the hormonal balance.
It is therefore particularly well-suited for women with diffuse, hormonally induced, or stress-related hair loss—including as supportive care during sensitive life phases such as postpartum or during menopause.

Yes, the ribogrow® products are vegan.

No, ribogrow® is not tested on animals.

Alcohol is used in the ribogrow® Hair Booster Tonic for several reasons:

1. Preservation: Alcohol acts as a natural preservative and protects the product from the growth of bacteria and germs – completely without additional chemical preservatives.
2. Improved absorption of active ingredients: Alcohol helps to better channel the active ingredients into the scalp by briefly making the skin more permeable. This allows the active ingredients to work more effectively.
3. Quick drying: Thanks to the alcohol content, the Tonic dries faster after application without leaving any residue – ideal for daily use, even with fine or oily hair.
   

The alcohol used is skin-friendly and is used in a concentration that is tailored to the sensitive scalp.

The term "deoxyribose" is sometimes used synonymously with "2-deoxy-D-ribose" (2DDR). 2DDR is a sugar component of DNA; together with phosphate, it forms the backbone of the DNA chain. Several studies have shown a positive effect on skin blood circulation, and one study identified a positive effect against hair loss.

In some of the studies, a hydrogel or gel was used for the application of 2DDR. The advantage of a gel is that the active ingredient can be released over a longer period. The disadvantage is that a gel penetrates the skin less effectively than a serum or tonic. Furthermore, a serum or tonic evaporates more quickly and does not make the hair sticky, allowing it to be styled shortly after application. Using it twice daily compensates for the negative effect compared to the more continuous release of an active ingredient provided by a gel.

As described in the last section, formulating it as a water/alcohol-based serum or tonic has two decisive advantages:

1. Skin barrier: The skin barrier is dissolved, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate the skin better.
2. Rapid evaporation/no stickiness: Especially in cases of hair loss, maximum hair volume is important for many of those affected. A serum or tonic evaporates quickly and does not stick or weigh down the hair like a gel or hydrogel.
   
   

Yes. In March 2026, the independent testing institute Dermatest GmbH in Münster tested the Hair Booster Tonic and Serum in a patch test on 30 people with sensitive skin. None of them showed a relevant skin reaction; both products received the Dermatest rating “Excellent”. Learn more in our article on the Dermatest.

The Hair Booster Tonic and Serum are made in Germany (Made in Germany), the Hair Booster Capsules in Austria.

ribogrow® is a brand of F2 Labs GmbH from Berlin, founded by Felix Bonnert and Frieder Damm. The idea came from personal experience: one of the founders wanted to do something about his own hair loss. Together with formulators and dermatologists, this led to the formula of the Hair Booster series.

No. ribogrow® is a cosmetic product and does not require a prescription. You can order it directly online. ribogrow® is Europe's first cosmetic product containing 2-deoxy-D-ribose and combines it with caffeine and Pisum sativum extract in FOLINODE™ technology.

ribogrow® was developed for men and women with hair loss. It is also suitable for thinning hair during hormonal phases of life, such as after pregnancy or during menopause, because it does not interfere with the hormone balance. In the case of sudden, severe or patchy (circular) hair loss, please have the cause checked by a doctor first.

Minoxidil is a medicine, while ribogrow® is a cosmetic product with FOLINODE™ technology based on 2-deoxy-D-ribose, caffeine and Pisum sativum extract. Both are applied externally to the scalp. Possible side effects of minoxidil include skin irritation, headaches and increased blood pressure. ribogrow® has no known side effects.

The active ingredients of FOLINODE™ technology are 2-deoxy-D-ribose, caffeine and Pisum sativum extract (from pea sprouts). ribogrow® is vegan and free from fragrances and dyes. Full ingredients of the Tonic and Serum (INCI): Aqua, Alcohol Denat., Alcohol, 2-Deoxy-D-Ribose, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Sprout Extract, Caffeine, Sodium Sulfite.

Once opened, ribogrow® keeps for 3 months. Store it tightly closed in a cool, shaded place.

Losing up to 100 hairs a day is considered normal: hair grows in cycles and falls out at the end of its growth phase, while a new hair grows back in the same spot. If you lose significantly more hair over several weeks or if your hair becomes visibly thinner, it is worth taking a closer look.

Typical symptoms include a receding hairline at the temples and/or thinning hair at the crown of the head (vertex). In most cases, hair loss begins gradually and progresses over many years.

Typical signs include a widening parting, thinner hair overall, a thinner ponytail, or a noticeably large amount of hair in the brush and drain – over the course of several weeks.

In the event of sudden, severe hair loss, circular bald patches, itching, dandruff, or inflammation of the scalp, you should have the cause medically examined, for example by a dermatologist.

For the Serum or Tonic 3-pack, in addition to your statutory right of withdrawal, we offer an extended voluntary 100-day money-back guarantee on your first order. If you are not satisfied with your 3-pack, you can return the bottles to us within 100 days of delivery, even if they have been opened or are empty, and you will receive a full refund of the purchase price. Please understand that shipping costs cannot be refunded.

The guarantee applies exclusively under the following conditions:

• First order only – the guarantee applies only to your first order with ribogrow®, not to subsequent orders.
• Only for the Serum or Tonic 3-pack – not for individually purchased units, nor for several individually purchased units.
• Once per person – the guarantee can be claimed only once per person, regardless of the number of orders placed.
• Once per household and delivery address – even if several people in the same household or at the same delivery address place orders, the guarantee is granted only once. This applies regardless of whether the orders are placed under the same or different names.
• No concurrent follow-up purchase – the guarantee does not apply if, at the time of the return or the guarantee request, there is or was another order for the same product to the same person, household, or delivery address.

Please contact our customer service team via the contact form if you wish to claim the money-back guarantee. We will then explain the next steps to you. As soon as we have received your return, we will refund the purchase price using the payment method chosen at the time of purchase. Please note that for technical reasons, the refund may take some time.

In this case, please contact our customer service via the contact form

Standard shipping is free – for all orders and with no minimum order value. For an extra charge, you can choose express shipping: €3.90 within Germany, €4.90 to the EU and €9.90 to Switzerland, the UK, Norway and Liechtenstein. We ship with DHL, Deutsche Post and their local partners.

Within Germany, your order usually arrives within 2–3 business days, counted from receipt of payment if you pay in advance. Delivery to other EU countries takes up to 6 business days on average.

We ship to all 27 EU countries as well as to Switzerland, the UK, Norway and Liechtenstein. Deliveries outside the EU may be subject to customs duties or import taxes. These are paid by the person placing the order.

Yes, upon request, we also deliver to DHL Packstations and post offices – convenient for anyone not at home during the day. You can then pick up your parcel flexibly at a time that suits you. As soon as your shipment is ready for collection, you will be notified automatically by DHL via email or SMS. There are no additional costs for this service.

1. Request a DHL Postnumber For delivery to a Packstation, you need a personal DHL Postnumber. You will receive this after a one-time registration directly on the DHL website (https://www.dhl.de/de/privatkunden/pakete-empfangen/an-einem-abholort-empfangen/packstation/packstation-registrierung.html).

2. Details required for your order Please provide the following information as the delivery address during checkout:

• First and last name
• Your personal DHL Postnumber
• The desired Packstation or post office
• Postal code and city

3. How to enter the address correctly

• Address addition / Company: Enter your Postnumber here. If this field is not available, add the Postnumber directly after your name, preceded by a forward slash.
• Street: Enter PACKSTATION or POSTFILIALE here.
• House number: Enter the number of the desired station here.
• Postal code and city: Enter the postal code and city of the Packstation.

Please note: It is not necessary to provide a street name – the station number and city are fully sufficient.

You can pay by credit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, SEPA direct debit, on invoice via Klarna or by prepayment (bank transfer).

Yes. You have a statutory 14-day right of withdrawal from receipt of the goods. This applies to unopened bottles; you bear the cost of returning them. In addition, the 100-day money-back guarantee applies to the 3-pack of Serum or Tonic on your first order – even for opened or empty bottles. All details can be found in the cancellation policy and in the question about the guarantee.

From an order value of €110, we automatically add the ribogrow® silicone scalp brush to your cart for free, for example with the 3-month treatment of Tonic or Serum and Capsules. The brush helps you spread the Tonic or Serum evenly over your scalp.

Not by default, but we are happy to do so on request. Simply email us at info@ribogrow.com after placing your order.

By email at info@ribogrow.com, by phone at +49 30 75437969 or via our contact form.