Common Treatment Formulation for Non-Scaring (Androgenetic) Alopecia

Abstract

In spite of being a non-life-threatening condition, hair loss (alopecia) severely impacts the quality of life of individuals who experience it. Recent studies indicate that the number of patients suffering from alopecia globally is on the rise. Androgenic alopecia (AGA) affects both genders at all ages. Genetic factors and family history are found to greatly impact the likelihood of experiencing hair loss. Statistics reveal that during the course of their lives, 80% of men experience alopecia, while 40 to 50% of women are likely to face some form of hair shedding. AGA is characterized by frontal-temporal hair shedding in men and hair thinning of the midline part of the scalp for women. A variety of herbal formulations are available on the market to combat AGA, while only two FDA-approved medications exist at the moment: oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. Topical formulations of finasteride are still under clinical trials. Minoxidil and finasteride formulations provide effective AGA treatment for both genders. Recent concerns regarding potential side effects of these two medications have drawn interest in providing new innovative alternative formulations (nutrients, minerals and vitamins) to provide a safer treatment against AGA. This article provides a brief overview of the current and alternative AGA formulations.