Khaberni - In an exciting scientific step that may pave the way for a simple and effective baldness treatment, researchers from National Taiwan University have announced the development of a topical serum (skin serum) that successfully regrew hair in mice within just 20 days, according to a study published in the journal Cell Metabolism, and reported by the British newspaper "Daily Mail".
The scientists explained that this serum relies on natural fatty acids that stimulate the stem cells in hair follicles without causing skin irritation, making it potentially eligible to be marketed as an over-the-counter cosmetic product in the future.
An Innovative Mechanism to Stimulate "Skin Fats"
As explained by the research team, led by Professor Sung-Jan Lin, the principle is based on activating the subcutaneous fat layer.
In initial experiments, the scientists used a skin-irritating substance known as SDS to provoke an immune response in mice, causing immune cells to migrate into the fat layer, which then secreted special fatty acids absorbed by the stem cells responsible for hair growth, thereby stimulating the regeneration cycle and producing new hair within about 10 to 11 days of treatment.
The New Serum... Without Irritants
Subsequently, the researchers replaced the irritants with a mixture of fatty acids dissolved in alcohol, such as oleic acid and palmitoleic acid, and discovered that this formulation alone was sufficient to stimulate hair growth without the need for skin injury or inflammation. Professor Lin told "New Scientist" magazine: "I tested the serum myself on my leg for three weeks and indeed noticed the growth of new hair in the areas I used it."
The serum, according to study results, showed efficiency similar to known drugs like minoxidil, with a clear advantage in hair growth speed and absence of side effects.
The Next Step... Human Trials
Despite the promising results, the researchers stressed that the treatment is still in its early stages. The team has patented the compound and is preparing for clinical trials on humans soon to determine the optimal doses and scalp safety.
Lin said: "The fatty acids used are naturally found in body tissues and many plant oils, so we believe they are safe, but we need to prove their effectiveness on a broader range of volunteers."
Why Does Baldness Occur?
It is noted that male pattern baldness results from the gradual shrinkage of hair follicles under the influence of male hormones and genetic factors, until they ultimately stop producing hair.
While current treatments are limited to minoxidil, finasteride, or hair transplantation, these are either temporary or may cause side effects such as depression or hormonal disturbances.
Therefore, this discovery is one of the most significant developments in hair loss research in recent years, relying on activating the body's own ability to renew hair follicles through natural fats. Experts believe that the success of human trials may open the door to a natural, easy-to-use treatment that restores hope to millions of men and women around the world suffering from hereditary baldness.
