Stevioside accelerates hair growth by supercharging minoxidil delivery, study finds
The technology may also be adapted for other dermatological applications, broadening its impact beyond hair regrowth.
AUSTRALIA – New research by scientists from the University of Sydney and collaborating institutions has revealed that stevioside, a natural sweetener derived from the Stevia plant, dramatically boosts the efficacy of minoxidil when delivered via a dissolving microneedle patch, accelerating hair regrowth in preclinical studies.
Researchers at the University of Sydney developed a dissolving microneedle patch that combines stevioside and minoxidil.
The patch is designed to penetrate the skin’s outer barrier and dissolve, releasing the drug formulation directly into the scalp near hair follicle regions.
The patch, which dissolves into the skin, delivered 85% of minoxidil into the skin within 24 hours, compared to only 68% with a standard 2% minoxidil solution, significantly improving absorption and retention.
Stevioside acts as a solubilizing agent, encapsulating minoxidil in micelles and improving its skin permeability and retention.
In a mouse model of alopecia, the stevioside-infused microneedle patch achieved approximately 67% hair regrowth coverage by day 35, compared to only up to 26% with standard 2% minoxidil solution.
The patch increased minoxidil delivery to the skin by 18-fold and improved retention by 18%, versus just 8% for the conventional solution.
The enhanced delivery activated more hair follicles into the growth (anagen) phase, resulting in earlier and more robust new hair development.
The study suggests that stevioside not only boosts minoxidil’s solubility and skin absorption but also makes the treatment more efficient and potentially more comfortable for users, as microneedle patches are painless and easy to apply.
According to the researchers, if these results are replicated in human trials, this approach could revolutionize hair loss treatment by improving outcomes, reducing side effects, and offering a more convenient alternative to liquid minoxidil applications.
While the research is still in the animal testing phase, the findings are promising for the development of more effective, natural, and user-friendly hair regrowth therapies.
The same microneedle technology could potentially be adapted for other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, acne, and hormone therapy, broadening its medical impact.
This innovation marks a significant advancement in the field of dermatology and cosmetic science, offering new hope for individuals seeking improved hair loss treatments.
These findings, published in Advanced Healthcare Materials, suggest that stevioside-based dissolving microneedle patches could revolutionize hair loss treatments, offering a more effective, natural, and user-friendly solution for millions affected by alopecia.
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