Development and Evaluation of a Niosome-Integrated Microneedle System for Targeted Follicular Delivery of Ketoconazole in Alopecia Therapy

    February 2026
    Priyanka Kandhare, Atmaram Pawar
    TLDR The new microneedle system improves hair growth in alopecia treatment.
    This study presents a novel transdermal delivery system for treating androgenic alopecia (AGA) using ketoconazole-loaded niosomes integrated into a dissolving microneedle array made from polyvinyl alcohol and gelatin. The optimized niosomes achieved a particle size of 201 ± 0.3 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 86 ± 0.63%. The microneedles effectively penetrate the skin, creating micro-channels for direct drug delivery to hair follicles. In vitro and ex vivo studies demonstrated a controlled, two-phase drug release over 24 hours, with a higher localized drug retention of 73.33% compared to 52.39% for pure drug-loaded microneedles. In vivo animal studies showed improved hair growth, with increased hair shaft diameter, thickness, and follicular elongation. This microneedle system offers a promising solution to the limitations of current topical AGA treatments.
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      community Is it worth adding Ketoconazole at this stage?

      in Ketoconazole  3 upvotes 3 days ago
      The conversation is about using Ketoconazole shampoo as a potential addition to Finasteride for hair density, with skepticism about its effectiveness for hair regrowth. Users suggest that Ketoconazole mainly helps with dandruff and scalp irritation, while Minoxidil and other treatments like oral Minoxidil or dutasteride might be more effective for hair density.

      community Using ketoconazole shampoo daily?

      in Ketoconazole  20 upvotes 2 weeks ago
      Using ketoconazole shampoo daily can dry out hair, and most users recommend using it 1-2 times a week with conditioner. Some users combine it with minoxidil and finasteride for better hair growth results.

      community Thoughts about ORAL ketoconazole? (pills)

      in Ketoconazole 1 month ago
      Oral ketoconazole is discussed as a potential hair loss treatment, but it poses significant health risks like liver damage and adrenal insufficiency. Users suggest safer alternatives like topical anti-androgens or spironolactone, emphasizing the importance of consulting a specialist.

      community Ketoconazole shampoo, which one to choose??

      in Ketoconazole  6 upvotes 2 months ago
      Ketoconazole shampoo is recommended at a 2% concentration for hair loss, with advice to leave it in the hair for 2-5 minutes. Users discuss different brands, noting that Nizoral contains artificial dyes, and suggest alternatives without dyes.

      community 2% Ketoconazole/Nizoral Daily?

      in Ketoconazole  11 upvotes 3 months ago
      Using 2% ketoconazole daily can dry out the scalp; 1-2 times a week is recommended. Combining ketoconazole with treatments like minoxidil, alfatradiol, and fluridil can help manage hair loss effectively.

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