The influence of topical antioxidant use on hair regrowth and skin condition after chemical depilation

Abstract

Introduction: Hair restoration treatments for alopecia using existing medications are not always effective, highlighting the need for new therapeutic options. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a topical gel containing ethyl-methyl-hydroxypyridine succinate (EMHPS) on hair regrowth and biochemical and histological skin parameters in animals following chemical depilation. Methods: Experiments were conducted on 50 adult male Wistar rats. Alopecia was induced using a commercial depilatory product containing potassium thioglycolate. A 5% EMHPS gel (125 mg/kg) was applied daily to the depilated skin. Trichoscopy, biochemical analysis, and histological examination of skin samples were performed on days 3, 9, and 21 of treatment. Results: The EMHPS gel demonstrated a tendency to accelerate hair regrowth, reduce lipid peroxidation, normalize antioxidant enzyme activity, and restore hydroxyproline and glycosaminoglycan levels in the treated skin compared to the untreated pathology control. Conclusions: The EMHPS gel primarily influences skin biochemical parameters and may be beneficial for treating forms of alopecia associated with oxidative stress.