Preliminary evaluation of a commercial shampoo and fine bubble bathing in the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: A single-blinded, randomised, controlled study.

BACKGROUND: Fine bubble (FB) bathing has shown benefits on a mouse model of atopic dermatitis (AD). However, its efficacy in dogs with AD remains to be evaluated. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of FB bathing in dogs with AD. ANIMALS: Seventeen dogs with AD whose clinical presentation showed a Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4th iteration (CADESI-04) score of <40. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The dogs were randomly assigned to either the FB bathing group or the shampoo group. The treatments were administered once a week as per the instructions, in a trial totalling 4 weeks. Evaluations were conducted on Day (D)0 and D28 to assess the outcomes of the trial. The severity of AD was measured using the CADESI-04 and the pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS). The skin barrier function parameters, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum hydration were measured before and after the treatment. RESULTS: Both treatment groups demonstrated a decreasing trend in CADESI-04 scores, yet the FB group exhibited significant improvement in comparison to the shampoo group after 1 month of trial. There were no significant changes in PVAS scores in either group. No significant difference was found in skin barrier function parameters between the two treatments, although TEWL slightly decreased in the FB group and slightly increased in the shampoo group after treatment. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: These results suggested that FB treatment provides benefits for dogs with AD and offers an alternative topical treatment option with a lesser impact on skin barrier function compared to frequent shampooing.

Clinical efficacy of a gentle anti-dandruff itch-relieving shampoo formulation.

Dandruff is a common scalp condition affecting almost half of the world's population. Despite its high prevalence, the exact pathophysiology is not well established and is understood to be multifactorial, with factors such as fungal colonization, sebaceous gland activity and individual factors being implicated. There is a need for an effective and safe shampoo that can target the above factors. Hence, we have developed a shampoo formulation with properties of oil control, moisturizing, non-irritative, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and itch-relieving. In this interventional, open-label study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of this shampoo in reducing the clinical signs of dandruff and pruritus in patients with pre-existing mild-to-moderate dandruff over a course of 21-day treatment duration through self-assessment and objective clinical evaluations. After continued use of the shampoo, there was a significant decrease in the adherent and loose scalp flaking scores. Mean pruritus scores also decreased significantly across the 21-day time points. There were also no adverse events or skin intolerances reported. This study showed that our shampoo formulation has led to a significant reduction in both adherent and loose scalp flaking and pruritus when used in individuals suffering from mild to moderate dandruff. As such, it is an ideal shampoo, which can be used to effectively control dandruff.

Les pellicules sont une affection courante du cuir chevelu qui touche près de la moitié de la population mondiale. Malgré sa prévalence élevée, la physiopathologie exacte n'est pas bien établie et est comprise comme étant multifactorielle, avec des facteurs impliqués tels que la colonisation fongique, l'activité des glandes sébacées et des facteurs individuels. Un shampooing sûr et efficace pouvant cibler les facteurs évoqués ci-dessus est nécessaire. Par conséquent, nous avons développé une formulation de shampooing présentant des propriétés de contrôle du sébum, d'hydratation, non irritante, antifongique, antimicrobienne et de soulagement des démangeaisons. Dans cette essaie interventionnelle ouvert, nous avons évalué l'efficacité et la sécurité d'emploi de ce shampooing dans la réduction des signes cliniques de pellicules et de prurit chez des patients présentant des pellicules préexistantes légères à modérées sur une durée de traitement de 21 jours par le biais d'auto-évaluations et d'évaluations cliniques objectives. Après une utilisation continue du shampooing, une diminution significative des scores de squames adhérents et d'excoriation du cuir chevelu a été observée. Les scores de prurit moyens ont également significativement diminué tout au long de la période de 21 jours. De même, aucun événement indésirable ou intolérance cutanée n'a été rapporté. Cette étude a montré que notre formulation de shampooing a entraîné une réduction significative des squames adhérents, de l'excoriation du cuir chevelu et du prurit lorsqu'elle est utilisée chez des personnes souffrant de pellicules légères ou modérées. Il s'agit donc d'un shampooing idéal qui peut être utilisé pour contrôler efficacement les pellicules.

Selenium Disulfide-based shampoo applied for 4 weeks significantly improves dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory condition accompanied by erythema, flaking and itching. Dandruff is a milder form of SD. Selenium disulfide (SeS2) is beneficial in both conditions. OBJECTIVES: to assess the efficacy of SeS2-based shampoo in dandruff/SD. MATERIALS & METHODS: an international, multicenter, observational study was conducted in 1407 adult subjects. SeS2- based shampoo was used 2 to 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Clinical efficacy criteria included improvement of hair, flaking, erythema and irritation on a scale from 0 to 5; investigator satisfaction was assessed at month 3 from 0 to 10. The subjects rated the impact of their hair problem (0 to 5), efficacy and satisfaction with SeS2-based shampoo at month 3. Tolerance was assessed throughout the study. RESULTS: At baseline, 68.2% had a flake severity score of 3-5, 49.9% an erythema severity score of 3-5, and 46.2% an irritation severity score of 3-5; 28.2% were bothered and 41.5% were very bothered. At study end, SD/D had at least clearly improved in 89.6% of subjects. All clinical signs had significantly (p<0.001) improved. 95.6% of subjects reported less pruritus. Significantly fewer (15.4%, p<0.0001) subjects were still bothered. The overall subject satisfaction score was 8.9±1.4; 97.6% of investigators were satisfied or very satisfied. Tolerance was good or very good in 98.8% of subjects. CONCLUSION: A SeS2-based shampoo applied 2 to 3 times per week is efficient and well tolerated in dandruff and SD.

Clinical evaluation of paraprobiotic-associated Bifidobacterium lactis CCT 7858 anti-dandruff shampoo efficacy: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The microbiome plays an important role in a wide variety of skin disorders. Hence, dysbiosis in the skin and/or gut microbiome is associated with an altered immune response, promoting the development of skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris and dandruff. Studies have shown that paraprobiotics may be promising for the treatment of skin disorders through microbiota modulation and immunomodulation. So, the objective is to develop an anti-dandruff formulation using a paraprobiotic (Neoimuno) as active ingredient. METHODS: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed in patients who had any degree of dandruff. A total of 33 volunteers were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: placebo or treated. (1% Neoimuno). The ingredient used was Neoimuno (Bifidobacterium lactis strain CCT 7858). Combability analysis and perception questionnaire were applied before and after treatment. Statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: No adverse effects were reported by patients throughout the study. Through the combability analysis, a significant decrease in the number of particles was verified after 28 days of shampoo use. Regarding perception, there was a significant difference for the cleaning variables and improvement of the general appearance 28 days after the intervention. There were no significant differences for the itching and scaling parameters, as well as the perception parameters at 14 days. DISCUSSION: Topical application of the paraprobiotic shampoo containing 1% Neoimuno was able to significantly improve the feeling of cleanliness and general aspects of dandruff, in addition to reducing scalp flakiness. Thus, with the results obtained through the clinical trial, Neoimuno presents itself as a natural, safe and effective ingredient in the treatment of dandruff. The efficacy of Neoimuno in dandruff was visible within 4 weeks.

OBJECTIF: Le microbiome joue un rôle important dans une grande variété de troubles cutanés. Ainsi, la dysbiose du microbiome cutané et/ou intestinal est associée à une réponse immunitaire altérée, favorisant le développement de maladies cutanées, telles que la dermatite atopique, le psoriasis, l'acné vulgaire et les pellicules. Des études ont montré que les paraprobiotiques peuvent être prometteurs pour le traitement des troubles cutanés par la modulation du microbiote et l'immunomodulation. Ainsi, l'objectif est de développer une formulation antipelliculaire utilisant un paraprobiotique (Neoimuno) comme principe actif. MÉTHODES: Un essai clinique randomisé, en double aveugle et contrôlé par placebo a été réalisé chez des patients présentant des pellicules de n'importe quel degré. Au total, 33 volontaires ont été recrutés et divisés au hasard en deux groupes: placebo ou traité. (1% Neoimuno). L'ingrédient utilisé était le Neoimuno (souche Bifidobacterium lactis CCT 7858). Une analyse de combabilité et un questionnaire de perception ont été appliqués avant et après le traitement. Des analyses statistiques ont été effectuées. RÉSULTATS: Aucun effet indésirable n'a été signalé par les patients tout au long de l'étude. Grâce à l'analyse de combabilité, une diminution significative du nombre de particules a été vérifiée après 28 jours d'utilization du shampooing. Concernant la perception, il y avait une différence significative pour les variables de nettoyage et d'amélioration de l'aspect général 28 jours après l'intervention. Il n'y avait pas de différences significatives pour les paramètres de démangeaison et de desquamation, ainsi que les paramètres de perception à 14 jours. DISCUSSION: L'application topique du shampooing paraprobiotique contenant 1% de Neoimuno a pu améliorer significativement la sensation de propreté et les aspects généraux des pellicules, en plus de réduire la desquamation du cuir chevelu. Ainsi, avec les résultats obtenus grâce à l'essai clinique, Neoimuno se présente comme un ingrédient naturel, sûr et efficace dans le traitement des pellicules. L'efficacité de Neoimuno sur les pellicules a été visible en 4 semaines.

[Antalgic effects of socio-aesthetics in cancer patients]. / Effets antalgiques de la socio-esthétique chez les patients atteints de cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Socio-aesthetics is the delivery appropriate beauty care in a population weakened by a physical, psychological and/or social attack. It has found its place in indications in both medical (especially in oncology) and social settings. It offers many types of treatments including facials, foot beauty, make-up, wig tips, body massage, product advice, cosmetic manicure, varnishing… The main purpose of this study was to evaluate pain reduction as a result of socio-aesthetics. METHODS: One hundred and eighty patients were offered a socio-aesthetic session between 12/01/2018 and 11/30/2019. One hundred and fifty-seven (87,2%) accepted the care (56.7% of women/43.3% of men, regardless of the type of cancer) and all agreed to complete a questionnaire on the type of treatment received, the benefits felt and a Likert pain assessment scale before and after the treatment. RESULTS: No patient experienced an increase in pain after the socio-aesthetic care. In the general population, the mean pain evaluation was rated at 1.31/10 and 0.78/10 before and after the session respectively, p<10-5. By selecting patients experiencing pain before treatment (40 patients, 28.0% of the total population), the mean pain evaluation was 4.27/10 and 2.52/10 before and after the treatment respectively, p<10-5. Pain was significantly reduced by massage. No patient found the socio-aesthetic treatment unnecessary. CONCLUSION: Socio-aesthetics is definitely a supportive care in oncology as it is significantly analgesic. It is easily accepted by men and regardless of the type of cancer. Researchers should conduct more studies on its impact on the quality of life.

Scalp application of the antioxidant piroctone olamine reduces hair shedding in an 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: Increasing scalp hair fullness is a global unmet consumer need. An approach to decrease hair shedding by reducing scalp stratum corneum oxidation via a combination of antioxidant and barrier-enhancing technologies has been previously demonstrated. The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of the individual antioxidant piroctone olamine in two different product forms (shampoo or leave-on product) for activity to improve hair retention. METHODS: Female subjects with self-perceived hair thinning participated in an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical study to evaluate either a piroctone olamine (PO) containing shampoo or a PO containing leave on treatment, each relative to their corresponding placebo formulation Too many periods. Results for phototrichograms, TEWL, and biomarker analysis of scalp condition for the shampoo treatments are discussed. Phototrichogram results are shared for the assessment of the leave on treatment. RESULTS: Statistically significant increases in hair amount were observed by phototrichogram after use of both PO-containing products versus placebo formulations. The PO shampoo treatment also significantly decreased oxidative stress on the hair and scalp, and improved scalp condition as assessed by TEWL and scalp biomarker values. CONCLUSION: These results illustrate the effectiveness of a cosmetic antioxidant to improve scalp condition thereby improving hair retention. The observed improvements in scalp condition are consistent with previous reports with other antioxidant technologies and suggest that the hair retention effect was achieved by preventing oxidative damage to the scalp.

Scalp application of antioxidants improves scalp condition and reduces hair shedding in a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: Increasing hair fullness is a global unmet need for many men and women. An approach to the problem is to decrease hair fall or shedding by reducing scalp stratum corneum oxidation and barrier damage to increase hair retention. This study evaluated a combination of functional antioxidants and barrier-enhancing cosmetic ingredients to improve scalp condition thereby enabling stronger hair anchorage and longer retention. METHODS: Male and female subjects with normal scalp condition and self-perceived hair thinning participated in a 24-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical study assessing either a regimen of treatment shampoo and leave-on treatment containing functional antioxidant and barrier-enhancing agents or an identical placebo chassis shampoo control. The functional ingredients were piroctone olamine, zinc pyrithione, zinc carbonate, niacinamide, panthenol and caffeine. At baseline and after 8, 16 and 24 weeks of product use, several measurements were taken: hair shedding, total hair count (by phototrichogram), hair samples, TEWL and evaluation of biomarkers of scalp and hair conditions. Subjects also completed self-assessment questionnaires. RESULTS: Statistically significant effects for functional ingredient-containing treatment regimen versus a placebo control shampoo formulation were observed for reduced hair shedding, increased total hair count, reduced TEWL and improvement in scalp biomarker values. Subjects also noticed these improvements assessed via self-assessment questionnaires. CONCLUSIONS: These results establish that the use of functional antioxidant and barrier-enhancing agents to further improve scalp condition can enable a reduction in hair shedding and thus an increase in perceived hair fullness. The underlying improvements in scalp condition suggest the hair benefits were achieved as a result of improved scalp skin barrier and scalp condition leading to a viable preventative approach for hair thinning.

Comparison of whole-head and split-head design for the clinical evaluation of anti-dandruff shampoo efficacy.

OBJECTIVE: Dandruff is a common scalp condition that can be improved by regular use of shampoos containing anti-fungal actives. The efficacy of anti-dandruff shampoos can be assessed by measuring scalp flaking, one of the important dandruff symptoms. A randomized, double-blind trial is often used with one of two clinical designs: whole-head parallel design and split-head paired design. We aimed to explore the difference in product differentiation between these two designs using the same two test shampoos and the same scalp flaking assessment method (Total Weighted Head Score Adhered Flakes-TWHS AF). METHODS: A clinical study was conducted with a 2- to 3-week wash-out phase and a 4-week test phase, consisting of 2 cells: 120 subjects with whole-head parallel design, divided into 2 subgroups (1:1) using on-site controlled washing method (either wash their own hair at a study site, under the instruction of a study supervisor or wash their own hair at home, as per instructions, but without supervision) and 35 subjects with split-head paired design using salon-staff washing method. Both cells employed hair washing at frequency of three times a week and TWHS AF measurement once a week from the baseline assessment. RESULTS: Both designs gave similar differences in TWHS AF between products: 5.6 units (95% CI: 4.1-7.0 units) in whole-head design and 5.9 units (95% CI: 4.9-6.9 units) in split-head design. CONCLUSION: Split-head paired design shows a similar ability of detecting product difference as whole-head parallel design, whereas it is a choice of more efficient and more cost-effective, as only a quarter of the subjects are required to demonstrate the efficacy between anti-dandruff shampoos.

OBJECTIF: Les pellicules sont une affection courante du cuir chevelu qui peut être améliorée par l'utilisation régulière de shampooings contenant des principes actifs antifongiques. L'efficacité des shampooings antipelliculaires peut être évaluée en mesurant la desquamation du cuir chevelu, l'un des symptômes importants associés aux pellicules. Il est souvent fait recours à une étude randomisée et en double aveugle reposant sur l'une des deux conceptions cliniques suivantes: une conception parallèle portant sur la tête entière et une conception appariée par séparation de la surface de la tête. Nous avons cherché à étudier en quoi des produits se différenciaient entre ces deux conceptions, en utilisant les deux mêmes shampooings d'examen et la même méthode d'évaluation de la desquamation du cuir chevelu (score total pondéré des pellicules collées sur la tête [Total Weighted Head Score Adhered Flakes, TWHS AF]). MÉTHODES: Une étude clinique a été menée avec une fenêtre thérapeutique de deux à trois semaines et une phase d'examen de quatre semaines, composée de deux cellules: 120 sujets recrutés selon une conception parallèle portant sur la tête entière, répartis en deux sous-groupes (1:1), avec un lavage réalisé au centre d'après une méthode contrôlée (lavage par le sujet dans l'un des centres de l'étude, réalisé sous les instructions d'un superviseur de l'étude, ou lavage par le sujet à son domicile, en suivant les instructions, mais sans surveillance) et 35 sujets recrutés selon une conception appariée par séparation de la surface de la tête, avec un lavage réalisé selon la méthode employée par le personnel des salons de coiffure. Pour les deux cellules, le lavage des cheveux avait lieu à une fréquence de trois fois par semaine et le score TWHS AF était mesuré une fois par semaine à partir de l'évaluation de référence. RÉSULTATS: Les deux conceptions ont permis d'observer des différences similaires des scores TWHS AF entre les produits: 5,6 unités (IC à 95%: 4,1 à 7,0 unités) avec la conception portant sur la tête entière et 5,9 unités (IC à 95%: 4,9 à 6,9 unités) avec la conception par séparation de la surface de la tête. CONCLUSION: Par comparaison avec la conception parallèle portant sur la tête entière, la conception appariée par séparation de la surface de la tête montre une capacité de détection similaire de la différence entre les produits, mais constitue un choix plus efficace et plus rentable, car elle n'exige de démontrer l'efficacité entre les shampooings antipelliculaires que chez un quart des sujets.

Targeting Wnt/ß-Catenin Pathway for Developing Therapies for Hair Loss.

Persistent hair loss is a major cause of psychological distress and compromised quality of life in millions of people worldwide. Remarkable progress has been made in understanding the molecular basis of hair loss and identifying valid intracellular targets for designing effective therapies for hair loss treatment. Whereas a variety of growth factors and signaling pathways have been implicated in hair cycling process, the activation of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling plays a central role in hair follicle regeneration. Several plant-derived chemicals have been reported to promote hair growth by activating Wnt/ß-catenin signaling in various in vitro and in vivo studies. This mini-review sheds light on the role of Wnt/ß-catenin in promoting hair growth and the current progress in designing hair loss therapies by targeting this signaling pathway.

Interventions for infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis (including cradle cap).

BACKGROUND: Infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis (ISD) is a chronic, inflammatory, scaling skin condition, which causes redness and a greasy scaling rash in infants and young children. It can last from weeks to months, but rarely years. When it occurs on the scalp, it is referred to as 'cradle cap'. While benign and self-limiting, irrelevant of its location on the body, it can distress parents. The effectiveness of commonly promoted treatments is unclear. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of interventions for infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis in children from birth to 24 months of age. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the following databases up to 22 May 2018: Cochrane Skin Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS. We searched trials registers and checked reference lists of included studies for further references to randomised controlled trials (RCTs). We searched for unpublished RCTs and grey literature via web search engines, and wrote to authors and pharmaceutical companies. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included RCTs of interventions for ISD in children from birth up to 24 months who were clinically diagnosed by a healthcare practitioner with ISD or cradle cap. We allowed comparison of any treatment to no treatment or placebo, and the comparison of two or more treatments or a combination of treatments. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. The primary outcome measures were 'Change in severity score from baseline to end of study' and 'Percentage of infants treated who develop adverse effects or intolerance to treatment'. The secondary outcome was 'Improvement in quality of life (QoL) as reported by parents'. MAIN RESULTS: We included six RCTs (one with a cross-over design) randomising 310 children and reporting outcomes for 297 children. Most participants were aged under seven months with only two participants aged over one year (seven and 12 years old); where specified, 60% were boys. In two studies, condition severity was mild to moderate; one study included two participants with severe ISD; the other studies did not describe baseline severity or described it as body surface area affected.The study setting was not always clear but likely a paediatric outpatient clinic in the following countries: Thailand, Israel, USA, France, and Australia.Two studies compared oral biotin (a B group vitamin) against placebo, two studies compared proprietary products against placebo cream or a control shampoo, and two studies compared topical corticosteroids against other products. The studies were generally short-term, between 10 and 42 days' duration; only one study followed the participants until resolution of the rash or eight months of age.We assessed the risk of bias as unclear for most aspects due to lack of reporting, but two of the studies were at high risk of performance and detection bias due to the appearance of the intervention, the trial design (open-label), or use of overlabelled tubes. Two trials had a high risk of attrition bias.All the results given below were based on very low-quality evidence. Treatment duration ranged from one week to three weeks.For the two trials comparing biotin versus placebo (n = 35), one did not report a measure of change in severity (only change in duration of rash) while the other did not report raw data (only 'no statistically significant difference'), measured at three weeks. Neither trial reported on adverse events.Two trials compared proprietary products against placebo (n = 160). One trial assessed change in severity via percentage success (96% of participants in non-steroidal cream Promiseb versus 92% in placebo), and reported no adverse events (both assessed at day 14). The other trial assessed change in severity via reduction in lesional score (surface area covered), finding better results for lactamide MEA gel (a moisturising agent) plus shampoo (81.4%) compared with shampoo only (70.2%; P = 0.0092). No adverse events were described, but signs of discomfort were similar in both groups (both assessed at day 21).In the comparison of topical steroids versus another product, change in severity was measured through evaluation of cure and body surface (n = 102).In one trial comparing hydrocortisone 1% lotion with licochalcone 0.025% lotion, there was no significant difference in participants cured (95.8% with hydrocortisone compared to 97.1% with licochalcone). One person in the licochalcone group developed more erythema, but there were no other adverse events (both outcomes assessed at day 14). In the trial comparing flumethasone pivalate 0.02% ointment versus eosin 2% aqueous solution, a reduction in body surface area affected was seen in both groups at day 10 (9% with corticosteroid versus 7% with aqueous solution), with all infants showing less than 10% involvement. There were no adverse events (both outcomes assessed at day 10).No studies measured QoL.We found no trials testing commonly used treatments such as mineral oils, salicylic acid, or antifungals. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Our review identified only a limited number of studies investigating the effects of interventions for ISD in infants and young children. Unlike the reviews investigating the effects of treatments in adults, our results showed that there is uncertainty regarding the effectiveness and safety of studied treatments due to the very low-certainty evidence for all comparisons and outcomes.We assessed most bias domains as at unclear risk, but there was a high risk of bias for (mainly) performance, attrition, and detection bias. Evidence was limited further by imprecision (small studies, low number of events), indirectness (mainly with the outcomes assessed), and poor trial reporting. In most studies, the prognosis for the condition was favourable regardless of intervention but interpretation is limited by the very low-certainty evidence.Further research is needed with large, well-conducted, and well-reported intervention trials, particularly of interventions commonly recommended or used, such as emollients or shampoos and brushing, antifungals, or steroids. All studies should report standardised and validated relevant outcome measures, including adverse events, severity, and QoL, and they should be conducted in primary care settings where the majority of ISD is managed. Future trials should compare against placebo, no treatment, or standard care.

A proprietary herbal extract against hair loss in androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium: a placebo-controlled, single-blind, clinical-instrumental study.

INTRODUCTION: Currently there are only a limited number of drugs available for treatment of androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium. However, certain plants and their standardized extracts may provide some clinical benefits against hair loss. We formulated a herbal shampoo and a solution to evaluate their efficacy, safety, and synergy in hair loss. METHODS: We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blind, clinical and instrumental study for 6 months on 120 subjects with androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium, confirmed by pull test and phototricogram. Each subject was examined monthly. At the end of the study, a self-assessment test was carried out. RESULTS: Herbal formulations were found to be more effective in preventing and reducing hair loss than placebo at every assessment point. Anagen/telogen ratios improved significantly in the study group. In addition, concomitant use of the shampoo and solution were found to be more effective than single product use. CONCLUSION: We interpret this eutrophic effect for scalp hair as the final outcome of the entire content of our herbal formula, which has antiandrogenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, angiogenic, and hair-stimulating features. In combination, these features help prevent hair from falling out and reducing hair loss.

The myrtus communis L. solution versus ketoconazole shampoo in treatment of dandruff: A double blinded randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of myrtus communis L. solution in the treatment of dandruff and to compare it with ketoconazole. METHODS: This double-blind randomised clinical trial was conducted at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran, from December 2015 to August 2016, and comprised patients with dandruff aged 18-60 years visiting the dermatology out-patient clinic. The subjects were randomised into two equal groups. The treatment group received myrtus communis L. solution and a placebo shampoo, while the control group received ketoconazole shampoo and a placebo solution. The total duration of the study for each subject was one month and subjects in both groups used their respective interventions 8 times during that period. The parameters studied were pruritus, erythema, severity of scaling, and the extent of scalp involvement. All subjects underwent scalp scaling tests at the beginning, after 10 days and at the end of the 30th day. SPSS 21 was used for data analysis. RESULTS: Of the 90 individuals, there were 45(50%) in each of the two groups. However, 74(82%) subjects completed the third visit and, of them, there were 37(50%) in each group. Both groups showed significant improvement in all outcome measures (p<0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of efficacy, satisfaction rate and side effects (p>0.05 for each outcome). CONCLUSIONS: Myrtus solution was found to be effective in the treatment of dandruff.

Incubatory environment of the scalp impacts pre-emergent hair to affect post-emergent hair cuticle integrity.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the oxidative stress transmitted to newly grown hair from an unhealthy scalp has physical consequences to the cuticular condition and function. METHODS: A uniquely designed 24-week clinical study included 8 weeks of pretreatment with a cosmetic shampoo and 16 weeks of treatment with either a potentiated zinc pyrithione (ZPT) antidandruff shampoo or a placebo cosmetic shampoo. This clinical design allowed the growth and acquisition of hair samples under conditions of varying but known scalp health as a result of treating a dandruff/seborrheic dermatitis (D/SD) population. Two complementary methods were used to characterize the integrity of the cuticular surface. Hair surface hydrophobicity was assessed by quantifying water wetting force using a Wilhelmy balance method. Surface structure and porosity were assessed using dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) to gravimetrically quantify water sorption. RESULTS: Chemical oxidative stress to pre-emergent hair has been shown to have negative consequences to hair surface structure. Compared to a placebo shampoo control, use of a potentiated ZPT shampoo improved scalp health and significantly improved the following attributes associated with healthy hair: hair surface hydrophobicity (surface energy) and cuticular moisture barrier effectiveness (dynamic vapor sorption). CONCLUSIONS: Pre-emergent hair can be negatively impacted by the oxidative stress that occurs with an unhealthy scalp, possibly due to metabolic activity of resident microbes. Manifestations of the oxidative stress include altered cuticle surface properties that are responsible for its protective function; these effects are similar in type to those observed by bleaching post-emergent hair. These alterations have the potential to make the hair, once emerged from the scalp, more susceptible to the cumulative physical and chemical insults responsible for hair feel and look, fiber integrity, and overall retention.

Neonatal skin care: what should we do? A four-week follow-up randomized controlled trial at Zagazig University Hospitals.

INTRODUCTION: Taking care of newborn skin is necessary to avoid skin infections. The normal daily exposure to external factors affects the skin negatively. Skin hygiene and proper skin cleansing as well as protection of the infant skin barrier are essential to maintain barrier function and overall infant health. AIM: The aim of this work is to assess the neonatal skin care effectiveness in promotion of normal skin development and protection of the optimal skin function by avoiding the different neonatal skin disorders which cause skin infection. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, proper care and good hygiene of the normal mature neonatal skin are essential to maintain skin barrier function and overall health. This is achieved by optimizing epidermal barrier integrity that includes: bathing and using emollient; preventing and managing infections and skin injury; minimizing transepidermal water loss (TEWL); minimizing heat loss and percutaneous absorption of toxins. Baby bath products as well as baby wipes are safe to use and do not appear to affect an infant's skin barrier integrity. It is therefore sensible to use cleansers that have been specially designed for baby's skin, which are pH neutral and very mild to avoid irritant dermatitis and allergic dermatitis.

A Retrospective Review of Treatment Results for Patients With Central Centrifugal Cicatrical Alopecia.

INTRODUCTION: Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a form of scarring alopecia primarily affecting women of African descent on the crown of the scalp. Limited data exists regarding evidence-based treatment for CCCA.

OBJECTIVE: To examine photos of subjects with CCCA before and after treatment in order to evaluate results of treatment and compare results of different treatment regimens.

METHODS: Photographs of 15 subjects with CCCA before and after treatment were evaluated by two blinded investigators who assigned disease severity scores to photographs based on a published scale: Central Scalp Alopecia Photographic Scale in African American Women.

RESUTLS: Median change in severity score (post-treatment severity score - pre-treatment severity score) was 0.5 (P = 0.58) for all 15 subjects receiving a series of 7 to 8 intralesional steroid injections along with topical steroids (Class I/II) +/- minoxidil and +/- anti-dandruff shampoo, indicating worsening of disease after treatment. Subjects receiving minoxidil versus those who did not (0.25 vs 0.5; P = 0.38) and subjects receiving anti-dandruff shampoo versus those who did not (0.0 vs 0.5; P = 0.42) demonstrated no statistically significant difference in pre- and post-treatment severity scores. Of 15 subjects, 5/15 (33.3%) had decreased severity scores, 8/15 (53.3%) had increased severity scores, and 2/15 (13.3%) had no change in severity scores.

CONCLUSIONS: Although no statistically significant difference was found in pre- versus post-treatment disease severity, this may indicate intralesional steroid injections and topical steroids +/- minoxidil and +/- anti-dandruff shampoo halt disease progression.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(4):317-320.

The effect of a herbal paste and oil extract on the lipid content of canine hair fibres.

BACKGROUND: Application of herbal paste and oil to a dog's coat and body before rinsing (often combining with shampooing) is a cosmetic therapy available in Japan. It is highly appreciated by users, who claim that the treatment makes the coat shinier, improves volume and eliminates tangles. However, there has been no scientific evaluation of such treatments. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Improvement of hair condition is derived from oils such as sebum and conditioning oils because chemicals are not used. Therefore, we examined nonpolar lipids (the primary lipids in dog hair) and the botanical oils used in this therapy. ANIMALS: Hair samples were obtained from six beagle dogs. METHODS: Groups were based on different combinations of the following processes: rinsing, shampooing, herbal therapy and herbal therapy with oil extract. Analysis of lipids was performed by high performance thin layer chromatography. RESULTS: The processes of shampooing and herbal therapy were associated with an equivalent reduction in cholesterol ester and triglyceride (TG). However, hair treated by herbal therapy combined with oil extract had an almost three-fold higher TG content, even after shampooing. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: This study demonstrated that the herbal therapy was able to coat hair samples with TG that was not removed with rinsing. Further investigation is required to evaluate the possible benefits of the application of botanical products containing lipids, such as TG, on hair coat quality in dogs.

Identification of factors contributing to phenotypic divergence via quantitative image analyses of autosomal recessive woolly hair/hypotrichosis with homozygous c.736T>A LIPH mutation.

BACKGROUND: Autosomal recessive woolly hair/hypotrichosis (ARWH/H) is caused by mutations in LIPH. Homozygotes for the LIPH c.736T>A (p.C246S) mutation, the most prevalent genotype in Japanese patients, present varying degrees of hair loss; however, determinants of this phenotypic diversity remain elusive. OBJECTIVES: To establish methodologies for quantitative assessment of clinical severity and provide a detailed characterization to elucidate the factors contributing to phenotypic divergence. METHODS: Digital image analyses were conducted to convert clinical severities into numerical values. Eight patients with ARWH/H were classified into three groups (mild, severe, very severe), based on severity scores. Dermoscopic images were collected and assessed for total hair numbers and hair thickness for intergroup comparisons. RESULTS: The image analysis detected a difference in hair thickness but not in total hair numbers, between mild and severe cases. A marked decrease in total hair number was noted in an atypical very severe case. Histopathologically, a patient with a mild case demonstrated hair miniaturization and a high telogen/anagen ratio without a decrease in total hair count, endorsing dermoscopic observations. Two children demonstrated spontaneous improvement without an increase in total hair numbers, and two adults responded well to topical minoxidil with increased total hair numbers and hair thickness. CONCLUSIONS: The difference in the frequency of underdeveloped hairs may be a major factor contributing to the clinical diversity of hair sparseness in LIPH c.736T>A homozygotes with ARWH/H. Hence, pharmacological modification to thicken existing fine hairs may provide a therapeutic strategy.