Effect of iontophoresis with growth factor cocktail containing fibroblast growth factor 5-short applied to the scalp in patients with androgenetic alopecia - A split study

Background: Growth factor cocktail (GFC) in combination with microneedling is an effective and safe treatment for patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). However, few studies have been conducted on the absorption of GFC into the scalp through iontophoresis. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of iontophoresis with GFC, including fibroblast growth factor 5-short (FGF5s), on hair growth in AGA patients. Methods: The study was performed on AGA patients who were treated with a topical solution and iontophoresis once per day for 24 weeks. The scalp was divided into right and left sides, and treated with GFC including FGF5s (right side) and normal saline (left side). Iontophoresis was performed on the scalp using the headset for 15 min daily. In total, 21 patients (10 men and 11 women) were enrolled. Treatment efficacy was evaluated through analyses of phototrichograms and digital photographs every 4 weeks for 24 weeks. Results: Phototrichogram images showed that 24 weeks of treatment with GFC including FGF5s with iontophoresis increased hair density from 179.2±5.5/cm 2 to 193.9 ±5.3/cm 2 ( p< 0.0001) and hair diameter from 54.9±2.3 µm to 55.3±2.3 µm ( p< 0.0565). The phototrichogram images of the region treated with saline after 24 weeks were not significantly different from baseline in hair density. Conclusion: Absorption of GFC including FGF5s following iontophoresis was effective for patients with AGA in a time frame of 12 weeks. However, further study is needed on the long term efficacy of absorption of GFC through iontophoresis.