Topically Applied Glycyrrhizic Acid Causes Hair Removal in Rats

The study investigated the effects of topically applied glycyrrhizic acid, derived from sweet licorice, on hair removal in Wistar rats. A solution containing 15% glycyrrhizic acid was applied twice daily, resulting in 20-30% hair removal after 3 days and 90-95% after 6-12 days. Long-term treatment over 9 months showed no inflammation and reduced hair regrowth by about 20%. Scanning electron microscopy indicated a smoothed hair cuticle, aiding hair shaft detachment. The findings suggested glycyrrhizic acid as a potential treatment for hypertrichosis in humans.