HSA's advisory

* 'Androgenetic hair loss, also known as male or female pattern hair loss, is one of the most common causes of hair loss in our adult population.

'Currently, HSA has licensed only two medicinal ingredients that have been proven scientifically to be effective for the treatment of androgenetic hair loss. They are topical minoxidil for use in both men and women and oral finasteride for use in men.

'The efficacy of complementary health products such as CPM and cosmetics is not assessed by HSA. As such, claims that such products can promote hair growth or slow hair loss may not be substantiated by scientific evidence,' says Ms Chan Cheng Leng, division director of the enforcement branch of HSA.

'HSA will not hesitate to take regulatory actions against dealers who import, sell and supply health products that contain undeclared western medicinal ingredients,' she added.

* Members of the public are reminded to exercise caution when they encounter health products promising quick cures or advertisements with exaggerated and misleading claims. HSA advises consumers to be wary of unrealistic or exaggerated claims on health products. Common techniques or gimmicks include :

* Promotions using terms such as 'scientific breakthrough', 'ancient remedy'

* Testimonials from people claiming amazing results

* Promises of no-risk, money-back guarantees

* Promises of an easy fix

* Claims that the product is 'all natural' or 'non-toxic'