Hair follicle-targeted delivery for hair recoloration using scalp-curvature-conforming microneedles based on sodium alginate and polyvinylpyrrolidone

Hair-related disorders are currently widely concerned issues for not only the scientific society but also the public attentions. Microneedle-based drug delivery system has been regarded as a promise hair follicle-targeted drug delivery approach, largely because they can effectively penetrate the stratum corneum barrier and deliver drugs to hair follicles within dermis. However, the currently reported microneedles for treating hair-related disorders usually rely on rigid backings, showing poor adaptability to the curved scalp and thereby restricting their usability for hair follicles targeted drug delivery. To this end, this study utilized sodium alginate and polyvinylpyrrolidone to construct a scalp-curvature-conforming microneedle with flexible backing. Subsequently, Psoralea corylifolia extract (PE) was loaded into the microneedles to investigate its capability in delivering PE to the hair follicle site for treating leukotrichia associated with vitiligo. These PE-loaded microneedles can effectively conform to the curvature of skin, enhancing the efficiency of microneedle insertion and ensuring stable drug delivery. Moreover, animal studies demonstrate that the PE loaded microneedles can effectively penetrate the stratum corneum, benefiting the drug delivery to hair follicles located site, and consequently showing a successful inhibition of hair graying. In summary, the present study reports a design and preparation of scalp-curvature-conforming microneedle. This design may offer a potential solution for efficient drug delivery using microneedles to the curved skin.