A joint research team led by Shin Yong, a professor from Yonsei University's Department of Biotechnology, and Park Chang-wook, a professor of dermatology at Severance Hospital, has developed a hair loss treatment cream using natural polysaccharides and oil extracted from plant-based chia seed mucilage (CSM). The research results were published in the international journal Small on April 28th.
Commonly used hair loss treatments, minoxidil and finasteride, have unresolved side effects and safety issues, including scalp irritation, skin itching, excessive hair growth in unwanted areas, and sexual dysfunction. Long-term use reduces effectiveness, and discontinuation leads to the resumption of hair loss.
The research team aimed to develop safer and more sustainable treatments than existing hair loss medications by utilizing plant-derived natural ingredients. They manufactured CSM gel (CSM gel) using natural polysaccharides extracted from chia seed mucilage. Based on this, they combined it with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and added a small amount of emulsifier to create a microcapsule form of cream called ‘CSMi’ that self-encapsulates chia seed oil (CSO).
The research team applied the ‘CSMi’ cream daily to the skin of hairless mice for 21 days to verify its effects. As a result, a noticeable promotion of hair regrowth was confirmed compared to the untreated control group. Hair regrowth was faster and hair density was higher than that of the existing treatment, minoxidil.
The research team noted that “CSMi cream activates the cellular energy metabolism process known as ‘glycolysis’ and ‘autophagy,’ which disassembles damaged cellular components,” explaining that it promoted hair follicle formation and extended the hair growth phase. Particularly, as a plant-derived natural ingredient, it lacked the side effects commonly seen in existing products, such as scalp irritation, skin troubles, and sexual dysfunction.
Shin Yong, a professor from Yonsei University's Department of Biotechnology, stated, “We have presented a safe and effective treatment method based on natural ingredients that overcomes the side effects and limited efficacy of existing products.” He added, “Through future clinical trials and commercialization, we could bring about substantial changes in the hair loss treatment market.”
Park Chang-wook, a dermatology professor at Severance Hospital, expressed optimism, saying, “This treatment, based on naturally derived ingredients that combines both safety and efficacy, has great potential to significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from hair loss if it is commercialized.”
References
Small (2025), DOI : https://doi.org/10.1002/smll.202503440