Highly Solubilized and Skin-Permeable Finasteride Formulation Using HPCD-Incorporated Chitosan Nanocapsules to Promote Hair Regeneration

This study introduces a new topical formulation of finasteride using HPCD-incorporated chitosan nanocapsules (FINA@HCNCs) aimed at treating androgenic alopecia (AGA). The formulation enhances solubility, encapsulation, and skin permeability, showing long-term stability and sustained release. In vitro tests indicated no toxicity and increased cell proliferation in three hair regeneration-related cell lines. In vivo tests on an AGA mouse model demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy with half the dosage of finasteride, suggesting that FINA@HCNCs could be a promising alternative to oral finasteride, minimizing systemic side effects while maintaining effectiveness.