Clascoterone 12-Month Data and Champo's Viral Oil Lead Scalp Week

Analysis

Prescription pipeline news dominated the week: Cosmo Pharmaceuticals reported positive 12-month safety data for clascoterone 5% in male androgenetic alopecia ^[1], and, following positive Phase III 12-month results, is now eyeing a 2027 NDA filing for the baldness candidate ^[2]. Alongside that, a new review of low-dose oral minoxidil suggests hair growth may peak after six months of treatment — a useful expectation-setting point for retailers and clinics fielding questions about oral options ^[3]. Earlier-stage science also drew coverage, with reports that scientists may have accidentally identified a sugar-based route to reversing hair loss without drugs ^[4].

On the UK consumer side, ELLE put Champo's viral hair growth oil to the test, asking whether the Pitta hair growth serum actually works ^[5] — a reminder that virality, not clinical data, is still driving much of the topical growth-serum category. Allure framed the same category more cautiously, positioning serums as a way to make hair loss more manageable rather than cure it ^[6]. The Washington Post argued that women's hair loss is more complicated than previously understood, and set out what actually helps ^[7], while Real Simple covered six ways to prevent hair loss while sleeping ^[8] — evidence that overnight and lifestyle-led routines remain an accessible entry point for concerned shoppers.

For supplements, Pharmactive will debut a botanical nutricosmetic for hair growth at Vitafoods Europe 2026 ^[9], signalling continued ingredient-side investment in ingestible hair care. Core scalp health also stayed on the agenda, with Glamour UK publishing expert guidance on getting rid of dandruff and soothing the scalp ^[10].