Efficacy of a mixed preparation containing piperine, capsaicin and curcumin in the treatment of alopecia areata.

BACKGROUND: Alopecia areata is a common non-scarring alopecia, mainly manifested as sudden localized patchy alopecia. It is currently believed to be related to autoimmune, genetic, emotional stress, and endocrine factors. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the mixed preparation of piperine, capsaicin, and curcumin on alopecia areata treatment. METHODS: Sixty patients were enrolled in this study and divided into 2 groups randomly: topical treated with the mixed preparation (case) twice daily and 5%minoxidil (control) once daily for 3 months. The degree of hair loss was assessed by SALT and dermoscopy. RESULTS: On the completion of the study, compared with baseline, statistically significant regrowth occurred in both groups (p < 0.05). The mean SALT scores and hair follicle status under trichoscopy at baseline and at the end of 12 weeks in the mixed preparation group and in the minoxidil group were comparable, respectively. The effective rate of mixed preparation group was 63.33% and minoxidil group was 70%. Adverse symptoms were temporary and no serious adverse event occurred. CONCLUSION: Based on our findings, the mixed preparation of piperine, capsaicin, and curcumin is effective in treating alopecia areata, but it has not been shown to be superior to minoxidil in short-term therapy.