Potential of Macroalgae for Anti Alopecia: A Systematic Review

Alopecia, commonly referred to as baldness, is a condition in which hair loss exceeds hair growth. The most prevalent types of alopecia are androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and alopecia areata (AA). Macroalgae are known to contain secondary metabolites with significant ecological potential that can be harnessed for various applications. The main types of macroalgae include red algae (Rhodophyta), green algae (Chlorophyta), and brown algae (Phaeophyta). Among the bioactive components found in macroalgae, one of the notable benefits is their potential as anti-alopecia agents. This review article aims to summarize the mechanisms by which macroalgae and their active compounds contribute to alopecia treatment by stimulating hair follicle growth. The review employs a literature study approach, analyzing secondary data from several articles sourced from online databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, using the keywords "algae for androgenetic alopecia" and "algae for alopecia." The review presents findings from 18 articles on various algae species that exhibit potential as alternative treatments for alopecia, each with distinct mechanisms of action. This research aims to contribute to the development of herbal medicinal products derived from macroalgae for the treatment of alopecia. © © 2025 by Indonesian Journal of Pharmacy (IJP).