Efficacy, Tolerability, and Superiority of Propylene Glycol-Free, North American Witch-Hazel-Based Solution of 5% Minoxidil Sulfate for the Treatment of Female Androgenetic Alopecia

A study involving 50 women aged 25-64 with female androgenetic alopecia (FAGA) who had not responded to conventional 5% topical minoxidil solution found that a propylene glycol-free, North American witch-hazel-based solution of 5% minoxidil sulfate (5MSS) was effective and well-tolerated. After switching to the 5MSS, 70% of patients showed observable clinical improvement, and 22% showed improvement with epiluminescence microscopic-only. The treatment was particularly well-tolerated in patients with propylene glycol sensitivity and irritable scalp syndrome. The study concluded that the 5MSS is effective and safe for the treatment of FAGA, specifically in minoxidil nonresponders and patients with propylene glycol sensitivity or irritable scalp syndrome.