Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a cream containing the Stryphnodendron adstringens (Martius) Coville bark extract for suppressing terminal hair growth.

BACKGROUND

Excess of terminal hair can be defined as excessive hair that appears in male-like pattern in women. Some experts consider this condition as a result of an atypical relationship between levels of circulating androgens and sensitivity of androgen receptors in hair follicles to circulating androgens.

AIMS

The aim of this research work was to evaluate the efficacy of a topical treatment for suppressing terminal hair growth of a cream containing 6.0% of the Stryphnodendron adstringens bark extract.

STUDY DESIGN AND SUBJECTS

Study was randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled. Subjects with excess of terminal hair were randomized to placebo and to the active treatment (cream with 6.0% of the extract). Evaluation was performed before and after 6 months, and subjects were photographed in each time. Clinical examination was carried out with the same physicians and in accordance with the Ferriman-Gallwey (FG) score.

RESULTS

Benefits of the cream containing S. adstringens bark extract was observed in 60.98% (P < 0.001) of the subjects. FG score changed from 4 to 3 in the placebo group compared to 4-2 in the active. The cream suppressed the terminal hair growth and diminished the number of terminal hair. Subjects also described the reduction of skin hyperpigmentation, folliculitis and acne. Adverse events were not verified by physicians or patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The cream with 6.0% of the S. adstringens bark extract was effective on the reduction and on the reversion of the terminal hair excess, being considered a new promissory product for such finality.