INTRODUCTION
Hair plays a central role in personal identity, societal interactions, and cultural expression.1 Hair appearance is viewed as a visible marker of age, health, and attractiveness.2 Consequently, hair growth and hair preservation are extremely prevalent dermatologic concerns for patients across all age groups and sexes. The length and thickness of a patient's hair are indicators of scalp health and contribute to overall personal appearance. Disruptions to hair growth cycling can result in hair thinning or clinically visible hair loss. Individuals with intact hair often seek to maintain their hair density and quality, and those experiencing hair loss pursue treatments to enhance their hair growth and retention.
Alopecia, or hair loss, is a universal dermatologic condition with a variety of etiologies, broadly classified as either nonscarring or scarring.3,4 Nonscarring alopecia may be reversible because the hair follicles remain intact with potential for renewed growth.3,5,6 Scarring, or cicatricial, alopecia is considered permanent due to inflammation and destruction of the hair follicles with associated fibrosis.3,5,7 Androgenetic alopecia, frequently referred to as male- or female-pattern baldness, is the most prevalent form of hair loss and is linked to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) sensitivity and genetic predisposition.3,4,8 Pattern hair loss typically presents with thinning at the crown in both men and women, with additional recession at the frontal hairline and temples in men.3,4 Alopecia areata is another common cause of hair loss, representing a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by patchy, sporadic balding across the scalp.3,4,8
More than 80% of men and 56% of women experience hair loss throughout their lifetime.9,10 Alopecia has a significant psychological impact on patients, associated with depression and anxiety, poor body image, and diminished quality of life.11 Due to the chronic nature of alopecia, the sizable patient population affected, and substantial patient burden, optimal treatment options are needed. Consistent with the widespread demand for hair growth, hair preservation, and hair loss management, the global market for hair-related therapies was estimated at $10.57 billion in 2025 and is projected to exceed $16 billion by 2030.12
Current hair preservation or hair loss treatment focuses on stimulating hair growth or preventing additional hair loss. Primary pharmacologic therapies include minoxidil, finasteride, and corticosteroids, which can be administered topically, orally, or intralesionally.3,4 While many patients have been satisfied with these medications, their use is often limited by adverse effects, difficulties with adherence, and variable efficacy.3 Alternative management includes more invasive
Alopecia, or hair loss, is a universal dermatologic condition with a variety of etiologies, broadly classified as either nonscarring or scarring.3,4 Nonscarring alopecia may be reversible because the hair follicles remain intact with potential for renewed growth.3,5,6 Scarring, or cicatricial, alopecia is considered permanent due to inflammation and destruction of the hair follicles with associated fibrosis.3,5,7 Androgenetic alopecia, frequently referred to as male- or female-pattern baldness, is the most prevalent form of hair loss and is linked to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) sensitivity and genetic predisposition.3,4,8 Pattern hair loss typically presents with thinning at the crown in both men and women, with additional recession at the frontal hairline and temples in men.3,4 Alopecia areata is another common cause of hair loss, representing a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by patchy, sporadic balding across the scalp.3,4,8
More than 80% of men and 56% of women experience hair loss throughout their lifetime.9,10 Alopecia has a significant psychological impact on patients, associated with depression and anxiety, poor body image, and diminished quality of life.11 Due to the chronic nature of alopecia, the sizable patient population affected, and substantial patient burden, optimal treatment options are needed. Consistent with the widespread demand for hair growth, hair preservation, and hair loss management, the global market for hair-related therapies was estimated at $10.57 billion in 2025 and is projected to exceed $16 billion by 2030.12
Current hair preservation or hair loss treatment focuses on stimulating hair growth or preventing additional hair loss. Primary pharmacologic therapies include minoxidil, finasteride, and corticosteroids, which can be administered topically, orally, or intralesionally.3,4 While many patients have been satisfied with these medications, their use is often limited by adverse effects, difficulties with adherence, and variable efficacy.3 Alternative management includes more invasive
