TLDR Liposomes are not better than acetone for applying DHT on skin.
The study evaluated the topical application of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) using the female hamster flank organ model. DHT encapsulated in liposomes showed negligible systemic absorption compared to significant absorption from an acetone solution. However, the biological effect of DHT was reduced when delivered via liposomes. Under the experimental conditions, the liposome system did not offer any advantages over the acetone solution for DHT application.
87 citations,
April 1973 in “Endocrinology” The chemicals 17βC and its methyl ester can block the effects of testosterone on hamster skin but not the effects of DHT.
70 citations,
February 2015 in “Expert Opinion on Drug Discovery” Topical drugs and near-infrared light therapy show potential for treating alopecia.
174 citations,
November 2002 in “Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine” Hair loss needs more research for better treatments.
24 citations,
July 2018 in “Drug Design Development and Therapy” NTF gel improves finasteride delivery for hair loss treatment, reducing side effects.
January 2020 in “Elsevier eBooks” Plant-based chemicals may help hair growth and prevent hair loss but need more research to compete with current treatments.
Nanocarriers with plant extracts show promise for safe and effective hair growth treatment.
