While over 80% of men and nearly half of women experience signifcant hair loss, going bald isn’t completely inevitable. One of the most popular treatments — minoxidil (commonly sold as Rogaine) — is proven to stimulate hair follicles. Recent research revealed that adding an extra ingredient to the over-the-counter foam can give hair follicles a sweet boost. A recent study reports that the natural sweetener Stevia can improve the absorption and efficacy of minoxidil when delivered via a specialized, dissolving micro-needle patch. Researchers combined minoxidil with stevioside derived from the stevia plant and applied the mixture to mice with hair loss. What they discovered is that hair follicles were prompted to re-enter the growth phase, the first stage of new hair growth. This discovery represents a promising step toward more effective and natural treatments for hair loss, potentially benefiting millions worldwide. Rogaine and topical foams containing minoxidil are popular hair loss treatments, but they’re not without their flaws. Not only do they sometimes have trouble soaking into the scalp, they also don’t fully dissolve in water. Manufacturers can add extra ingredients like ethanol to improve penetration, but that can lead to unpleasant side effects like itching, rashes or dandruff. The new mixture of Stevia and minoxidil eliminates these issues while providing a convenient and long-lasting option. The combination ensures prolonged drug release directly into the targeted area with accurate dosage.
