NANOCARRIER-BASED APPROACHES FOR ENHANCED MANAGEMENT OF ANDROGENETIC ALOPECIA: ADVANCEMENTS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

Abstract

Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), the most common form of patterned hair loss, is genetically inherited, potentially treatable scalp hair loss that occurs only in the frontal and central scalp of predisposed individuals. The 5-Alpha Reductase (5-AR) enzyme converts testosterone into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) under hormonal influences, which results in hair follicle miniaturization and the development of AGA. Finasteride (FIN) and Minoxidil (MXD) are the only two U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs available; however, their drawbacks, such as topical and systemic side effects and inconsistent effectiveness, have prompted research into more sophisticated drug delivery methods. Nanocarriers show potential for targeted drug administration in the treatment of AGA, including liposomes, niosomes, Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs), polymeric nanoparticles, transferosomes, and Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs). These nanocarriers enhance drug stability, target follicular delivery, and maintain drug release by overcoming the stratum corneum barrier. Nanocarriers reduce systemic exposure while increasing drug bioavailability and concentration at target sites. For example, antioxidant-based formulations lessen oxidative stress, and nanoparticles loaded with spironolactone block androgen receptors and inhibit 5-AR activity within hair follicles. Nanotechnology enhances treatments and enables the use of new therapeutic agents, including anti-inflammatory and regenerative organic substances. Preclinical results are encouraging, but limited robust trials, regulatory obstacles, and financial limitations impede the translation to clinical practice. This review highlights nanotechnology’s potential to revolutionize AGA treatment through localized, patient-centric strategies, emphasizing the need for clinical validation and scalable manufacturing.