At the recent IMCAS 2025, the world-renowned congress on dermatology, plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, and anti-aging, a new and exciting direction for treating hair loss and thinning hair has emerged. siRNA technology has become a beacon of hope for individuals around the world suffering from baldness. One of the most talked-about highlights of the event was an innovative hair loss treatment utilizing siRNA technology, which is being hailed as a potential turning point in the field of hair restoration. This innovation represents a leap beyond previous limitations, particularly in terms of both efficacy and safety.
This article will explore how siRNA is set to revolutionize the treatment of hair loss.
What causes hereditary hair thinning and baldness?
Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hereditary hair thinning and baldness that affects both men and women, though it is more prevalent in men. It can occur in both teenagers and adults. In men with a genetic predisposition to baldness, the condition is caused by the hormone testosterone being converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink, shortening the hair growth cycle, and resulting in thinner, weaker hair that falls out more easily, eventually leading to the cessation of hair production altogether. The pattern of hereditary baldness differs between men and women. The severity of AGA varies, ranging from mild to advanced stages. If you notice excessive hair shedding or if your hair appears thinner or finer than usual, it is advisable to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.
What are the current medications used to treat hair loss and thinning hair?
Using medication to treat hair loss is one of the available options that can help slow down hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth. Continuous use is necessary to maintain the condition of the hair and promote thicker hair growth. However, it is not recommended to self-medicate without medical supervision. The current medications used to treat hair loss include:
The medication works by inhibiting the hormone DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), which is a key cause of hereditary hair thinning. When DHT is suppressed, its levels in the body decrease, resulting in slower hair loss. However, if the body is overly sensitive to Finasteride, the drug may affect other parts of the body, for example, impacting prostate function, reducing libido, and potentially causing sexual dysfunction. It's important to note that these side effects do not occur in everyone; they affect only about 2% of users. Precaution: For patients over the age of 60, the body’s ability to metabolize Finasteride may be reduced. In such cases, the dosage should be lowered accordingly.
A Popular Hair Loss Treatment: Minoxidil. Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, Minoxidil works by relaxing arterial walls, which leads to blood vessel dilation. Resulting in the dilation of blood vessels. Minoxidil is available in two forms:
Oral Minoxidil:
This form stimulates hair growth across the entire body, not just on the scalp. Some users may experience unwanted hair growth on the face, arms, legs, chest, or back as a side effect.
Topical or Spray Minoxidil:
This form works only on the areas where it is applied. When used on the scalp, it dilates blood vessels that supply the hair follicles, increasing blood flow and nutrient delivery to the scalp. This stimulates hair growth and helps reduce hair shedding. Topical Minoxidil comes in various concentrations. Once started, treatment should not be stopped abruptly. Discontinuing use may lead to the shedding of newly grown hair. Continuous application for at least 6 months is recommended to see noticeable results.
The innovative siRNA-based hair loss treatment showcased at IMCAS 2025
This innovative treatment is suitable for both men and women, with an application frequency of once a week or once every 2 weeks, depending on the severity of the hair loss. Although it has already been approved in Europe, it has not yet been registered by Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Initial clinical trials have shown no reported side effects and indicate strong therapeutic potential. However, as siRNA is still considered a cutting-edge technology, particularly in the treatment of genetic diseases, chronic inflammatory conditions, and cancer, long-term effects remain under close observation. If this drug receives approval from Thailand’s FDA in the future, it could truly become a game-changer in the field of hair loss treatment.
