A 56-Day Randomized, Double-Blinded, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Assessment of Scalp Health and Hair Growth Parameters with a Centella asiatica Extracellular Vesicle and Growth Factor-Based Essence

Hair loss and scalp dysfunction are widespread concerns with limited safe and effective long-term care options. This randomized controlled study evaluated the effects of a topical scalp care essence formulated with Centella asiatica extracellular vesicles (C. asiatica EV) and recombinant Fc-fusion long-acting insulin growth factor-1 (rIGF-1) and fibroblast growth factor-7 (rFGF-7) on scalp health and hair growth. Sixty healthy adult participants aged 18 to 60 years were randomly assigned into five groups: (1) Placebo control; (2) Base formula consisting of 0.1% caffeine and panthenol; (3) Base formula with long-acting rIGF-1 and rFGF-7; (4) Base formula with C. asiatica EV; and (5) Base formula combined with rIGF-1, rFGF-7, and C. asiatica EV. Participants applied the assigned product once daily for 56 days. Parameters, including sebum content, hair length, thickness, and density, and hair loss, were assessed at baseline and Days 14, 28, 42, and 56. Outcome measures included sebum content, hair density, scalp condition, hair length, and overall hair loss. The formulation with C. asiatica EV and growth factors was found to be most effective, with all parameters increased significantly on Day 56 compared to the placebo. This study highlights the potential of plant-derived EVs combined with growth factors as a synergistic strategy for promoting scalp and hair health.