FROM FOLLICLE TO FORMULATION: EXPLORING SAW PALMETTO AND CAFFEINE SHAMPOOS FOR ALOPECIA MANAGEMENT

Alopecia is a common hair disorder characterized by excessive hair loss and reduced hair density, with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) being strongly associated with genetic factors and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Limitations of conventional treatments have encouraged the exploration of alternative topical formulations. Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), rich in fatty acids and phytosterols, may influence 5α-reductase activity, while caffeine may promote hair follicle activity and regulate hair growth. This review explores the potential of combining saw palmetto and caffeine in shampoo formulations for alopecia management, focusing on their mechanisms of action, formulation development, physicochemical characterization, stability, safety, and quality control. Although both ingredients demonstrate promising biological properties, their combined clinical efficacy and potential synergistic effects remain insufficiently established. Further standardized formulations and controlled clinical studies are needed to validate their effectiveness as an adjunctive approach to AGA management.