Lipid Nanoparticles for Topical and Transdermal Application for Alopecia Treatment: Development, Physicochemical Characterization, and In Vitro Release and Penetration Studies

The study focused on developing lipid nanoparticles for delivering anti-alopecia compounds, specifically minoxidil and finasteride, to the dermis and hair follicles. The nanoparticles, created using ultrasonication, had a mean size of around 200 nm and a zeta potential of approximately -30 mV, indicating good stability. Over 28 days, the formulations remained stable, with finasteride showing a high loading efficiency of 70%-90%, while minoxidil had less than 30%. Minoxidil-loaded nanoparticles demonstrated prolonged release, although penetration assays through pig ear skin showed low penetration levels for both drugs. The findings suggested that these lipid nanoparticles were promising for dermal delivery in alopecia treatment.