Phytochemicals and novel delivery systems in alopecia management: An integrative review

Alopecia, a common dermatological disorder characterized by hair loss, can significantly impact psychological well-being and self-esteem despite being non-life-threatening. Various factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, environmental stressors, and medical conditions, contribute to its development. Conventional treatments such as minoxidil and finasteride stimulate hair growth by prolonging the anagen phase or inhibiting dihydrotestosterone production but may cause adverse effects, prompting interest in alternative therapies. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of herbal medicines and phytochemicals such as epigallocatechin gallate from green tea, curcumin from turmeric, and essential oils like rosemary and peppermint for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormonal-modulating properties. A combination of synthetic and natural therapies offers a promising synergistic approach, enhancing efficacy while reducing side effects. However, conventional topical formulations often face limitations in skin penetration and bioavailability. To address this, innovative transdermal drug delivery systems, including nanocarriers, liposomes, and microneedles, have been explored to enhance follicular targeting and improve therapeutic outcomes. This review summarizes recent advances in alopecia management, covering synthetic and herbal therapies, mechanisms of action, novel delivery strategies, evaluation methods, and commercial products. By integrating traditional remedies with modern technologies, future treatments may offer improved therapeutic outcomes and greater patient satisfaction.