Abstract:
Hirsutism is a dermatological condition that refers to the excessive growth of
hair in androgen-sensitive areas in women. Recently, the enhancement of the visible signs of
a hairy female has taken special concern that affected the quality of life. The present study
was developed to compare the follicular targeting effect of topical spironolactone (SP) or
progesterone (PG)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) on the management of
hirsutism. Four NLC formulations were prepared using cold homogenization techniques
and pharmaceutically evaluated. SP-NLC and PG-NLC topical hydrogels were prepared to
explore their pharmacological effect on letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome
(PCOS) in rats. Inflammatory mediators, antioxidant, and hormonal parameters were
assayed. Additionally, histopathological examination was carried out to confirm the
successful induction of PCOS. Results confirmed that all NLC formulations have a spherical
shape with particle size ranged from 225.92 ± 0.41 to 447.80 ± 0.66 nm, entrapment efficiency
> 75%, and zeta potential (− 31.4 to − 36.5 mV). F1 and F3 NLCs were considered as
selected formulations for SP and PG, respectively. Female Wistar rats treated with F1
formulation for 3 weeks displayed better outcomes as manifested by the measured
parameters as compared to the other tested groups. A significant reduction in hair follicle
diameter and density was observed after topical application of SP or PG nano-gels. Finally,
the outcomes pose a strong argument that the development of topically administered SP-
NLC can be explored as a promising carrier over PG-NLC for more effectual improvement
in the visible sign of hirsutism.
