ADVANCES IN DELIVERY SYSTEMS FOR HAIRCARE: A REVIEW

Over the last 10-15 years, hair problems such as hair loss, slow hair growth, and reduced follicular function have been among the most common issues faced by younger generations, which in turn drives the need to seek out conventional cosmetic products dominating in the forms like liquids, lotions, oils, and creams, although these formulations have encountered efficiency issues such as inadequate penetration of the active in the stratum corneum, rapid wash-off of the formulation, poor follicular retention, and potential instability of the active components. Consequently, to address these challenges and enhance the bioavailability, stability, and therapeutic effectiveness of these hair growth agents, numerous advanced delivery systems such as liposomes, niosomes, nano-emulsions, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), cyclodextrins, and various innovative carriers are effectively utilised. This article mainly highlights the function and mechanism of these novel delivery systems and examines their application in currently marketed products, while simultaneously emphasising the future direction of the field. To conclude, these delivery systems demonstrate significant promise in the haircare industry, providing improved outcomes and a scope for the creation of more efficient, scientifically supported cosmetic products.