An update on nanocarriers for follicular-targeted drug delivery for androgenetic alopecia topical treatment

Introduction Androgenic alopecia is a multifactorial disease with a high incidence and a great psychological burden on patients. The current FDA-approved treatment is topical minoxidil or oral finasteride. However, both present significant limitations. While the systemic absorption of finasteride causes serious sexual side effects, minoxidil's low solubility imposes a challenge in obtaining a non-irritative and effective formulation. One way to solve such limitations is by using nanocarriers targeting the drug delivery to the hair follicles upon topical application.