Nanozyme-Loaded Needles Spur Hair Regrowth

Researchers at Zhejiang University have developed a microneedle patch loaded with cerium-based nanozymes to treat androgenic alopecia, a common form of hair loss. The nanozymes mimic the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase, enzymes that neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) linked to hair loss. The patch, made of hyaluronic acid, delivers these nanozymes to hair follicles under the skin. In animal models, the patch released its nanozyme cargo within 5 minutes of application to depilated skin. After 2 weeks of daily treatments, the patch was found to be as effective as the over-the-counter hair-loss drug minoxidil (Rogaine), but required only five applications.