Transdermal Delivery of Valproate–Choline Ionic Liquid Induces Hair Regrowth

February 2025 in “ ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces ”

Sai Gao, Xueqing Cheng, Yunhao Feng, Dingqi Wu, Zeren Han, Qian He, Ming Zhang, Qiong Dai, Liyun Zhang, Chaoyong Liu, Yunfeng Lu

valproic acid choline-based valproic acid ionic liquid VPA-IL transdermal delivery Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway hair papilla cell proliferation PCNA K14 loricrin hair follicle stem cell activity alopecia VPA hair regrowth hair loss treatment

TLDR A new treatment using valproic acid helps regrow hair safely.

This study introduces a novel choline-based valproic acid ionic liquid (VPA-IL) for treating hair loss, demonstrating its effectiveness in promoting hair regrowth by enhancing the transdermal penetration of valproic acid (VPA). The VPA-IL disrupts the lipid bilayer of the stratum corneum, facilitating VPA delivery and activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, crucial for hair papilla cell proliferation. In vivo assessments showed that VPA-IL application upregulates key markers like PCNA, K14, and loricrin, promoting hair follicle stem cell activity without causing skin irritation or systemic toxicity. This research presents a safe and promising therapeutic option for alopecia.

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