Protein that cuts fat, prevents hair loss

The research confirmed that changes in the hair growth cycle led to fluctuations in the thickness of the underlying fat layer of the skin - meaning that the skin can regulate fat production.

"The specific chemicals identified in this study could be produced synthetically and used in creams for topical application to the skin to modulate growth of fat beneath the skin," said Rodney Sinclair from the University of Melbourne and Epworth Hospital in Australia.

"A cream could trim fat specifically where it was applied by 'pausing’ the production of factors that contribute to fat cell growth,” he noted.

The effect of changes in the fat tissue on the synchronised patterns of hair follicle growth has long been established.

“This is the first demonstration that the skin below the hair follicle can regulate the development of fat,” Sinclair said.

This discovery could affect future treatment of obesity, male and female pattern baldness and alopecia - male and female baldness.

The study appeared in the journal in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.