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Inside UNILIPO’s Scalp Serum 2.0: What’s New?

2 days ago
6 min read

Hair loss is more common than most people think

Recent figures indicate that more than 50% of the global population experiences androgenetic alopecia [1], which affects both men and women.

Gray hair follows a similar “50–50 rule”: roughly 50% of people worldwide begin to see gray hair by age 50. In some parts of Asia, the proportion of young adults experiencing premature graying is approaching 50% [2].

By age 35, people who have experienced neither hair loss nor graying are already in the minority.

The scalp and face share similar skin biology but face different challenges. Facial care often involves layers of serums, creams, and sunscreen, while scalp care is usually limited to a single product—often a ginger shampoo with little evidence of benefit. That is why a scalp serum combining multiple active ingredients at meaningful concentrations matters.


Results from the Original Scalp Serum


UNILIPO launched its original scalp serum in late 2023. Between its launch and early 2026, the product was evaluated in a real-world study called “Save the Hairline.” Participants used the serum alongside UNILIPO’s caffeine shampoo.

The six-month study enrolled 32 women with hair-loss concerns. Budget constraints limited enrollment, so the team apologized to applicants who were not selected. Participants’ concerns included receding hairlines, thinning at the temples, widening parts, and alopecia areata.

After six months, 83.3% of volunteers showed a visible increase in hair density in the treated areas. Selected before-and-after photographs appear below.

 


Changes in a participant’s temples and hairline over 180 days
Changes in a participant’s temples and hairline over 180 days
Changes in a participant’s hairline over 180 days
Changes in a participant’s hairline over 180 days
Changes along a participant’s hair part over 180 days
Changes along a participant’s hair part over 180 days

The original formula combined active ingredients targeting the hair growth cycle, androgen signaling, oxidative stress, and melanocyte function. The table below summarizes the key ingredients and their described mechanisms.



Two new actives in the 2.0 formula


The updated formula retains the original active ingredients at the same concentrations and adds two new ingredients:

1. UNISOUL® RNAiG: An RNA-interference active ingredient that targets androgen receptor expression at the gene level

2. Platycladus orientalis extract: A botanical extract rich in flavonoids, organic acids, and phenolic compounds.


How UNISOUL® RNAiG targets the androgen receptor


The brand describes UNISOUL® RNAiG as its flagship patented gene-regulation technology. To understand why androgen receptors matter, it helps to review the hair growth cycle.

Caption: The scalp hair follicle cycle: anagen (2–6 years), catagen (2–3 weeks), and telogen (3 months).
Caption: The scalp hair follicle cycle: anagen (2–6 years), catagen (2–3 weeks), and telogen (3 months).

A healthy scalp sheds 100–150 telogen hairs each day as new anagen hairs replace them, keeping overall hair density stable [3][4]. The enzyme 5α-reductase converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which binds to androgen receptors (AR). This shortens the anagen phase and gradually miniaturizes hair follicles—a hallmark of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) [5].

Caption: Androgen signaling in dermal papilla cells: testosterone is converted to DHT, which binds the androgen receptor.
Caption: Androgen signaling in dermal papilla cells: testosterone is converted to DHT, which binds the androgen receptor.

High AR levels not only shorten the growth phase but also push hair follicle stem cells toward becoming oil-producing cells. This helps explain why androgenetic alopecia is often accompanied by an oily scalp.

Most clinically useful hair-loss ingredients—including caffeine, adenosine, Kopyrrol, and minoxidil—work by inhibiting 5α-reductase. UNISOUL® RNAiG can silence AR expression, leaving fewer receptors for DHT to bind to.

Laboratory data presented in the article show that RNAiG significantly reduced AR protein expression, oil-related lipid production, and inflammatory cytokine levels.


Relative AR protein expression in the blank control, DHT model, RNAiG, and minoxidil groups
Relative AR protein expression in the blank control, DHT model, RNAiG, and minoxidil groups

Relative lipid levels in the blank control, DHT model, RNAiG, and spironolactone groups
Relative lipid levels in the blank control, DHT model, RNAiG, and spironolactone groups
Relative levels of the inflammatory markers IL-1α, IL-8, and TNF-α across the four groups
Relative levels of the inflammatory markers IL-1α, IL-8, and TNF-α across the four groups

A third-party clinical study evaluated topical RNAiG in 32 adults with hair-loss concerns. Hair shedding was measured at baseline and on days 7, 14, and 28. Shedding was significantly reduced after seven days and had decreased by 48.59% by day 28.


Hair shedding counts decreased from 31.9 at baseline to 16.4 on day 28.
Hair shedding counts decreased from 31.9 at baseline to 16.4 on day 28.

Another third-party human study examined excess oil production and acne. After 28 days of RNAiG use, participants had significantly fewer pustules, inflamed bumps, and clogged pores.


Caption: RNAiG reduced acne lesion counts between day 0 and day 28 in a third-party clinical study.
Caption: RNAiG reduced acne lesion counts between day 0 and day 28 in a third-party clinical study.

UNISOUL® RNAiG is described as blocking androgen signaling at the receptor level, while nanoliposome encapsulation is intended to improve delivery through the skin. Together, these approaches are described as helping reduce hair loss, control oil, and limit inflammation, with support from human clinical data.


Why Platycladus orientalis extract was added


Platycladus orientalis has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine for hair loss, graying, and baldness. Historical texts describe its use in hair washes to promote darker hair and growth. Modern research has begun to investigate its active compounds and how they work.

The extract contains both volatile and nonvolatile compounds. Its volatile oils include small amounts of cedrol and fenchone. The larger nonvolatile fraction includes flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, along with organic acids and phenolic compounds.


This combination of compounds gives the extract antioxidant and UV-protective properties. One clinical study involving people with androgenetic alopecia found that Platycladus flavonoids reduced melanin-related free radicals and UV-induced hair damage, slowing the graying process [6].

Caption: Electron micrographs compare hair cuticle damage and protection conditions.
Caption: Electron micrographs compare hair cuticle damage and protection conditions.

An 8–12-week study of Platycladus orientalis leaf extract reported visible hair growth and increased hair density. The proposed mechanism involves activating growth factor receptors and signaling proteins called ACK1 and HCK, which stimulate the growth of dermal papilla cells at the base of hair follicles [7]



Caption: POLE treatment increased terminal hair count per cm² over 12 weeks compared with placebo.
Caption: POLE treatment increased terminal hair count per cm² over 12 weeks compared with placebo.

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The article identifies Platycladus orientalis extract as a complementary ingredient in hair-loss formulas because of its effects on oxidative and UV stress, 5α-reductase activity, and hair-growth signaling. In some animal and experimental models, its effects on hair growth were comparable to or greater than those of minoxidil.


Five questions users ask most


Why Isn’t the Serum a Clear Liquid?


The formula contains multiple active ingredients at high concentrations. Several botanical extracts—including milk thistle, Platycladus, coffee, and larch—naturally contribute color and cloudiness. Ethanol was not used as the primary solvent because of concerns about its effects on the skin’s microbiome and barrier with long-term use. Instead, the formula uses butylene glycol and propylene glycol, both of which are polyols. Because these solvents are less fluid than ethanol, the serum was formulated as a lightweight emulsion with liposome-based delivery.


Does It Feel Sticky? Application Matters


A sticky finish may result from how the product is applied. When used as directed, the serum is described as adding volume and providing a light styling effect.

Apply at night before bed or after washing your hair, using enough to leave the scalp feeling slightly cool and damp. Massage gently with your fingertips, then comb repeatedly in one direction with a multi-tooth horn comb. Use gentle pressure; the scalp may feel slightly warm, but combing should not be aggressive. The next morning, blow-dry for one to two minutes for a lifted, nongreasy finish.


How Can I Enhance the Results?


The article suggests two additional methods to support absorption and follicle activity.

First, use an electric microneedle device such as a NanoCrystal microneedle or similar infusion tool before application. Choose a needle depth appropriate for skin tolerance, roll or press for 1–5 seconds over the thinning or graying area, then apply the serum.

After applying the serum and combing, the article recommends using a low-level light device operating at wavelengths above 600 nm. Examples include HairMax laser combs or bands and CurrentBody LED hair-regrowth helmets.

Will there be a shedding phase?


Hair-loss or hair-growth products with meaningful activity may cause a temporary increase in shedding during the first few weeks. This can occur when resting follicles enter a new growth cycle, causing hairs already in the resting phase to shed sooner. The article advises continuing normal use if shedding increases during the first two months.

The authors describe initial shedding as much less likely than with minoxidil and present this as part of the serum’s gentler profile.


Does It Work for Scarring Alopecia?


Hair loss can be classified as scarring or nonscarring. In nonscarring forms—including androgenetic alopecia and hair loss associated with seborrheic dermatitis—follicles remain intact but may be less active. Targeted treatment can often help restore density.

 

Scarring alopecia is more difficult to address because the affected skin is damaged and the follicles may no longer be viable. Treatments intended to stimulate hair growth are unlikely to restore hair where follicles have been destroyed.


 
 
 

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