Topical Sandalore, a Specific OR2AT4-Stimulating Odorant, Ameliorates Female Telogen Effluvium: Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

In a study from 2019 involving 60 female volunteers with telogen effluvium, a topical solution with 1% Sandalore®, a synthetic odorant that activates the OR2AT4 olfactory receptor, was shown to significantly reduce hair shedding, increase hair volume, and raise the percentage of anagen phase hair follicles over a 24-week period compared to a placebo. The placebo used natural sandalwood oil, which has a similar scent but does not stimulate OR2AT4. The treatment did not impact hair shaft thickness or density. Improvements were noted after 8 weeks and sustained until week 24. Participants using Sandalore® also reported higher satisfaction with their hair's appearance. The study suggests that olfactotherapy could be a beneficial adjunct treatment for hair loss disorders.