Microemulsion Formulation of Combination of Virgin Coconut Oil and Rice Bran Oil for Hair Growth

In a study from April 27, 2018, researchers investigated the hair growth promoting effects of a microemulsion containing a combination of virgin coconut oil (VCO) and rice bran oil (RBO). Three different formulations were prepared with varying ratios of VCO to RBO: 1:1 (FI), 1:2 (FII), and 2:1 (FIII), using 45% tween 80 as a surfactant and 20% glycerin as a co-surfactant. Over 8 weeks of storage, the formulations were evaluated for physical stability, including organoleptic properties, pH, homogeneity, density, globule particle size, and phase freeze-thaw. Additionally, a rabbit hair growth activity test was conducted over 18 days. The results showed that all three formulations remained physically stable, with pH values between 6.7 and 7.0, densities from 1.085 to 1.088 g/mL, and average globule particle sizes of 34.6 nm for FI, 54 nm for FII, and 68.8 nm for FIII. The most effective formula for hair growth was FIII, which resulted in an average hair growth length of 1.26 cm over the 18-day period.