Self-driven directional polypyrrole-polyethyleneimine nanopigment-infused medical textiles with potential asymmetrical ionic convection and biological effects for follicle restoration

Hair loss is one of the most common and distressing conditions that can be traumatic for an individual. Many non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments for hair loss have been developed. However, serious side effects or limitations in terms of the hair regeneration potential still exist. One of the non-pharmacological treatments, biophysical stimulation, has shown promise in hair regeneration. Nevertheless, the associated discomfort and the need for external components such as an electrical power supply pose challenges to its widespread use. In this study, we present an innovative cationic fabric that utilizes repeatable asymmetrical ionic flow of a physiological fluid to internally stimulate hair follicles and skin. Characterization, ultrasonic, biochemical, and histological experiments were conducted. The use of this developed treatment significantly increased expressions of heat shock proteins and potentially improved immunoregulation in the skin, as well as increased the number of hair follicles in skin defect animals, with no adverse risks.