Effects of a Botanical Extract Versus Minoxidil on Hair Loss-Associated Biomarkers: An In Vitro Study

This in vitro study evaluated the effects of a botanical extract compared to minoxidil on hair loss-associated biomarkers in human keratinocyte cells. Both treatments increased growth factors VEGF and KGF and reduced the expression of 5α-reductase type II (SRD5A2), with minoxidil showing a stronger effect. Minoxidil also significantly decreased inflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, while the botanical extract only reduced IL-6 and TNF-α. Additionally, minoxidil reduced TGF-β, a negative regulator of hair follicle cycling, whereas the botanical extract increased it. Overall, minoxidil demonstrated more pronounced effects, but the botanical extract showed a similar response pattern, indicating its potential as an alternative treatment for hair loss and warranting further in vivo studies.