In vitro skin permeation of monoolein nanoparticles containing hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin/minoxidil complex

The study aimed to improve the skin permeation of minoxidil, a drug used to treat hair loss, by developing a topical preparation that reduces the barrier function of skin and enhances the permeation of the active ingredient through skin. The researchers prepared monoolein cubic phase nanoparticles containing hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin/minoxidil complex and found that the nanoparticles had higher in vitro skin permeation of minoxidil loaded than that of minoxidil dissolved in propylene glycol/water/ethanol. However, the amount of minoxidil remained within the skin was higher with the minoxidil solution than with the nanoparticles. The study concluded that further research is needed to increase the skin retention of the nanoparticles for effective hair growth promotion.