In vitro and in vivo study of the efficacy of a new sebum control essence

Background

People with oily skin often suffer from skin problems such as oily face, blackheads, acne, and enlarged pores. It is necessary to regulate oily skin with skin care products.

Aims

To develop an effective sebum control essence to reduce oiliness of skin.

Methods

The composition of the essence was designed in consideration of different oil control mechanism targets. The skin irritation was assessed in 30 volunteers by a single application close patch test. The efficacy of the essence was evaluated by in vitro experiment, short- and long-term clinical trials with over 60 volunteers.

Results

The results of both in vitro and clinical trials showed that the essence had significant oil control and moisturizing effect, the skin oil content decreased by 21.8% within 8 h and 30.05% after 28 days, which indicated that the essence could achieve rapid and persistent sebum control efficacy. In addition, the essence could relieve the problems of enlarged pores, blackheads and whiteheads in long-term use.

Conclusions

The essence developed in this study can alleviate the problems of oily skin from many aspects, and achieve an excellent effect in oily skin regulation. It is suitable for a daily application in oily skin regulation.     

Effect of leave-on cosmetic antimicrobial preservatives on healthy skin resident Staphylococcus epidermidis

Background

The effect of high doses preservatives in the leave-on cosmetic products to the skin microbiota is not clear. Studies have shown that the preservatives might alter the balance of the skin microbiota.

Aim

In this study, we aimed to evaluate antimicrobial effect of nine cosmetic chemical preservatives.

Material & Method

A total of 77 Staphylococcus epidermidis isolates from 46 healthy zygomatic skin samples were characterized by multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Nine preservatives used in leave-on cosmetics were analyzed by testing the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against S. epidermidis isolates. We also determined the mutant prevention concentration (MPC) and bactericidal kinetics on selected isolates.

Results

More than 17 sequence types were recognized among 77 S. epidermidis isolates. Our data demonstrated that the maximum permitted doses of 2-bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol, ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, and imidazolidinyl urea were significantly higher than both their MICs and MPCs. We showed that, at the maximum permitted doses, two preservatives could completely kill 10⁷ CFU/mL S. epidermidis in less than 1 h in MH broth.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that certain preservatives of the leave-on cosmetics might inhibit or kill S. epidermidis cells and perturb the skin microbiota balance. The determination of the maximum permitted doses of the preservatives should not only be based on the toxicological data, but also antimicrobial susceptibility analysis. This comprehensive evaluation would ensure a balanced and healthy skin microbiota.     

Whitening and moisturizing enhancing effects of three-dimensional human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium-containing cream

Background

High-functional cosmetic products combined with the concept of “treatment” cosmetics are being introduced to the market. Cosmetic products containing a skin-derived microbiome, a three-dimensional (3D) stem cell culture medium, and low-molecular-weight collagen are being introduced, and these products are leading the cosmeceutical market. We aimed to confirm the potential of a 3D stem cell culture medium-containing cream as a skin-whitening and moisturizing product.

Aim

To determine the enhancing effects of a cream containing 3D adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned media (3D ADMSC-CM) on whitening and moisturization.

Methods

The inhibitory activities of tyrosinase (TYR) and melanin were confirmed using 3D ADMSC-CM. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid expression in 3D ADMSC-CM was verified. The clinical efficacy of the cream containing 3D ADMSC-CM was established by evaluating its antioxidant properties and effects on skin tone, radiance, freckles, and moisturization.

Results

The use of 3D ADMSC-CM suppressed the inhibitory effects of TYR and melanin by approximately 24% and 33%, respectively, and increased the expression of hyaluronic acid synthase. A significant difference was observed after 4 weeks of using 3D ADMSC-CM in the skin antioxidant evaluation. After 2 and 4 weeks of use, skin tone and radiance increased and skin freckles decreased significantly. Under extremely cold and dry weather conditions, the use of the cream increased skin moisturization.

Conclusions

The 3D ADMSC-CM cream evaluated in an environment similar to the human body was found to enhance skin whitening and moisturization and can therefore be used in the skin care and cosmetic industries as a biocosmetic product.     

Content and stability of B complex vitamins in commercial cosmetic products

Background

Individual B vitamins have many favorable effects on the skin and are common cosmetic ingredients. However, their formulation is demanding due to stability issues, which consequently affect the products’ quality.

Aims

We aimed to determine the quality (labeling accuracy, content determination, and content-related quality control) and stability under long-term and accelerated storage conditions of a representative sample of commercial cosmetics containing the most common B vitamins – nicotinamide, dexpanthenol, pyridoxine, and cyanocobalamin.

Methods

Cyanocobalamin was determined by a previously published stability-indicating HPLC– diode array detector (DAD) method for the simultaneous determination of all hydrophilic vitamins. This method was additionally simplified and adjusted for the time-effective analysis of nicotinamide, dexpanthenol, and pyridoxine. Both methods were properly validated.

Results

All labeled B vitamins were present in the 36 tested products, mostly in contents, reported effective on the skin. Thus, a straightforward correlation between vitamin contents and product prices were not observed. The content-related quality control of eight products, which quantitively specify their content, revealed significantly lower nicotinamide contents (47% and 57%) in two products and appropriate or higher nicotinamide (102%–112%) and dexpanthenol (100%–104%) contents than declared in the remaining products. The 6-month long-term and accelerated stability studies demonstrated the products’ physical stability, but also revealed dexpanthenol, pyridoxine, and cyanocobalamin degradation, while nicotinamide was mostly stable in the tested products.

Conclusions

The obtained results provide an inside into the quality of commercial vitamin B cosmetics and highlight the importance of stability testing in the formulation of quality, efficient, and safe cosmetics.     

Acne Vulgaris and Quality of Life Among Young Adults in South India

Acne vulgaris is a chronic condition affecting more than 85% of adolescents and young adults. It is one of the most common diseases affecting humanity and its impact on quality of life (QoL) is important. The impact of acne on QoL in Indian patients remains undocumented. The study was undertaken to detect the impact of acne vulgaris and related factors that may influence the QoL.

Materials and Methods:

This was a hospital-based, prospective, cross-sectional, prestructured, questionnaire-based study done on 140 consenting individuals, who attended the Dermatology outpatient department. Acne vulgaris was graded using simple grading system. QoL was measured using a combination of skin disease-specific (Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI)) and acne-specific (Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI)) questionnaires.

Results:

Majority of our study population were students (103, 73.6%). Face (139, 99.3%) was the commonest site of acne and comedones 133, 95% were the commonest type of lesion. Most of the individuals 66, 47.1% were observed to have grade 1 acne. The mean DLQI score was 6.91 and the mean CADI score was 5.2. Association between the scores was statistically significant. Age, occupation, marital status, family, and treatment history played a role in affecting the QoL. Diet, smoking, and alcohol did not influence the QoL.

Conclusion:

Though acne had impact on patient''s QoL, it was less severe in our study. It is important for health professionals to incorporate QoL measurements when managing acne patients to provide better and appropriate care.     

Impact of pigmentary disorders on quality of life in Japan: Interest of the BeautyQoL instrument

Skin pigmentary disorders and uneven skin tone represent common cosmetic concerns in Japan where fairer skin is culturally desirable. As the demographics of Asian countries continue to evolve, there is a need to understand the impact of cosmetic skin concerns on quality of life (QoL). 199 Japanese women self-claiming facial skin pigmentation disorders were asked to complete the BeautyQoL questionnaire, and the results were compared with those of a control group of 200 women. Of the five dimensions of the BeautyQoL questionnaire, the dimension “mood” appeared to be significantly lower in the group presenting facial dark spots, as compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In the group presenting facial dark spots, the five dimensions and the global score showed that subjects concerned had lower scores than subjects less concerned, even if statistical significance was not reached.

This study confirms that common pigmentary disorders such as facial black spots may negatively impact QoL. Further comparative studies with a controlled randomized design would be necessary to confirm these findings.     

Comparison of Marketed Cosmetic Products Constituents with the Antigens Included in Cosmetic-related Patch Test

Background

Currently, cosmetic series (Chemotechnique Diagnostics, Sweden) is the most widely used cosmetic-related patch test in Korea. However, no studies have been conducted on how accurately it reflects the constituents of the cosmetics in Korea.

Objective

We surveyed the constituents of various cosmetics and compare with the cosmetic series, to investigate whether it is accurate in determining allergic contact dermatitis caused by cosmetics sold in Korea.

Methods

Cosmetics were classified into 11 categories and the survey was conducted on the constituents of 55 cosmetics, with 5 cosmetics in each category. The surveyed constituents were classified by chemical function and compared with the antigens of cosmetic series.

Results

155 constituents were found in 55 cosmetics, and 74 (47.7%) of constituents were included as antigen. Among them, only 20 constituents (27.0%) were included in cosmetic series. A significant number of constituents, such as fragrance, vehicle and surfactant were not included. Only 41.7% of antigens in cosmetic series were found to be in the cosmetics sampled.

Conclusion

The constituents not included in the patch test but possess antigenicity are widely used in cosmetics. Therefore, the patch test should be modified to reflect ingredients in the marketed products that may stimulate allergies.     

Saccharide isomerate ameliorates cosmetic scalp conditions in a Chinese study population

Background

Scalp conditions such as flaky or oily scalp affect people across ethnicities and age groups. In addition to flaking, increased sebum secretion, itching, and compromised scalp barrier function were described. Scalp conditions are aesthetically disturbing and may cause psychological distress in affected individuals who are looking for mild and effective treatment at the same time. Saccharide isomerate has a long history as a skin moisturizer, and it was found to improve skin barrier function, also suggesting possible beneficial effects on scalp.

Aims

To provide relevant claim substantiation to introduce saccharide isomerate as a new scalp care active against scalp flaking condition.

Material and Methods

We conducted a placebo-controlled clinical study in an adult Chinese population affected by dandruff scalp as assessed by an adherent scalp flaking score. We monitored transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum secretion, and scalp flaking during 28 days.

Results

Formulations containing Saccharide isomerate significantly improved all parameters both over time as well as compared to the placebo formulation.

Conclusion

We propose Saccharide isomerate for cosmetic formulations directed toward improving scalp conditions such as dandruff or oily scalp.     

Tolerability and effectiveness of a dermocosmetic product containing Silybum marianum fruit extract in adolescents and young adults with acne-prone skin: An international,phase IV,longitudinal study

Background

Dermocosmetic products are often used to maintain or enhance the tolerance and effectiveness of medical anti-acne therapies. Recent discoveries about the pathophysiology of acne-prone skin indicate that skincare products may help maintain homeostasis around the sebaceous gland progenitor cells, thereby preventing microcomedone formation.

Aims

To evaluate the tolerance and effectiveness of a dermocosmetic product containing Silybum marianum fruit extract (SMFE) in adolescents and young adults with acne-prone skin.

Patients/Methods

This real-life, international, observational, multicenter study was conducted in patients aged 12–25 years with mild-to-moderate acne. Patients (N = 4230) used the product twice daily for 8–12 weeks, either alone before (“initial group”) or after an anti-acne therapy (“maintenance group”), or in association with their usual prescribed anti-acne therapies (“association group”). The tolerance, effectiveness, and cosmetic properties of the product were assessed. Patient quality of life (QoL) was also evaluated.

Results

Dermatologists rated the tolerance of the product as “good” or “very good” in about 95% of the patients and the effectiveness of the product as “effective” or “highly effective” in about 80% of the patients, with a significant reduction in the mean global evaluation of acne (GEA) grade (−36% ± 39%, p < 0.0001) at study end. The QoL of most patients (80%) improved by the end of the study, and the majority (79% to 94%) appreciated the cosmetic properties of the product. Overall, the product was a clinical success in >84% of patients.

Conclusions

This dermocosmetic product can be used by adolescents and young adults with acne-prone skin to limit the initial or chronic use of medical anti-acne therapies.     

The growing importance of ultrasonography in cosmetic dermatology: An update after the 23rd IMCAS Annual World Congress (2022)

Background

Ultrasound (US) has been used for many years in the field of medicine. Many specialties have embraced US as a quick, painless, and relatively inexpensive tool to assist the clinician in determining anatomy, pathology, and aid in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. US allows for precise mapping of cutaneous and subcutaneous structures in the face, in particular vascular structures. The use of US leads to reduced chances of complications and clinical failures, rendering more safety and high quality.

Methods

US is considered the first-imaging technique for dealing with fillers and managing their potential complications. US can be deployed for vascular mapping, safe placement of fillers, and directed low-dose hyaluronidase reversal of vascular adverse events. It is a noninvasive imaging modality that provides a good definition for studying the skin, deeper layers, and blood flow in real time. In other words, we go from static to dynamic anatomy. In addition, US can guide with the application of botulinum toxin, in order to define the muscular planes. US may contribute to a more personalized procedure, better cosmetic results, and help to avoid complications. In general, physicians tend to use it for prevention. Last, for research purposes, US examination provides valuable information on the behavior, longevity, and interaction of the filler within the tissues.

Conclusion

This new approach for US-guided treatments is a very practical and an effective method in cosmetic dermatology. As doctors, we owe it to our patients to do our best to prevent any harm. We feel that in near future, US will be an essential diagnostic tool in any dermatology or cosmetic doctor's office to both ensure safety and provide legal protection for the professional.     

Impact of Postthyroidectomy Scar on the Quality of Life of Thyroid Cancer Patients

Background

Surgical scars are crucial cosmetic problem, especially when in exposed areas such as the anterior neck following thyroidectomy.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of post-thyroidectomy scars on quality of life (QoL) of thyroid cancer patients and identify the relationship between scar characteristics and QoL.

Methods

Patients with post-thyroidectomy scars on the neck were recruited. QoL was measured using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Scar characteristics were graded according to Vancouver scar scale (VSS) score.

Results

Ninety-seven patients completed a battery of questions at the time of enrollment. Post-thyroidectomy scars were classified according to morphology as linear flat scars, linear bulging scars, hypertrophic scars or adhesive scars. There were 32 patients (33.0%), 9 patients (9.3%), 41 patients (42.3%) and 15 patients (15.5%), respectively, in each group. The mean total DLQI score was 9.02. Domain 2 (daily activities, 2.87 points), which includes questions about clothing, was the most greatly impacted among patients. The total DLQI scores of patients who have experienced scar-related symptoms were significantly higher than those of patients without symptoms (p<0.05). The VSS scores were 3.09 for linear flat scars, 6.89 for linear bulging scars, 6.29 for hypertrophic scars and 5.60 for adhesive scars. However, the DLQI scores did not significantly differ among scar types or VSS scores.

Conclusion

Post-thyroidectomy scars on the neck affect the QoL of thyroid cancer patients regardless of scar type. Therefore, clinicians should pay attention to the psychological effects of scars on patients and take care to minimize post-thyroidectomy scar.     

Review of the microbiome in skin aging and the effect of a topical prebiotic containing thermal spring water

Background

Interest in the skin microbiome and the cosmetic benefits of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics is increasing.

Aim

The current review explores the influence of the skin microbiome on facial skin aging and the effects of oral and topical probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics use on skin aging and cosmetic outcomes.

Methods

Five dermatologists who treat clinical signs of facial skin aging and a microbiome scientist (advisors) explored the relationship between the skin microbiome and skin aging. Published evidence and the advisors' knowledge lead to guidance on the skin microbiome using oral and topical prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to reduce signs of aging.

Results

The role of the microbiome in aging skin is an emerging concept. A diverse skin microbiome is essential for skin health. Preliminary studies suggest oral probiotics and prebiotics may play a role in reducing signs of skin aging, likely through shifting to a greater skin and gut microbiome diversity. Thermal spring water contains probiotics and prebiotics. Preliminary studies suggest topically applied probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics may improve signs of skin aging, including a reduction in fine lines and increased hydration.

Conclusions

The panel agreed that oral and topical prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics may play a role in improving signs of aging by improving the skin microbiome. Larger studies with more prolonged treatment trials are needed to better understand the microbiome's role in skin aging and the possible benefits of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics use.     

Body care activities and its consequences related to COVID-19 pandemic

Background

Symptoms of illnesses related to COVID-19 disease include also dermatological changes. Moreover, modification of cosmetic and hygenic habits are widely noted.

Aim

The aim of this paper is to review the literature focused on skin manifestations related to COVID-19 disease.

Materials and Methods

In order to obtain information contained in this review article electronic databases, such as Google Scholar and PubMed, was searched. Only peer-reviewed articles published in the past two years have been studied.

Results and Discussion

People have changed their cosmetics and hygenic habits, what has an impact on spreading COVID-19 disease, as well as on the beauty industry and human health.

Conclusion

More emphasis should be placed on increasing knowledge about skin lesions, which may appear in course of the disease or are associated with changes in hygenic and cosmetics habits.     

Trend of contact allergy to cosmetic ingredients in Thais over a period of 10 years

Background. Contact allergy to cosmetic ingredients is common. However, there are no recent comprehensive studies on contact allergy to cosmetic ingredients in Asia. Objectives. To identify positive patch test reactions in patients tested at Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand to allergens present in cosmetics. Methods. A retrospective review of medical records from the outpatient contact dermatitis clinic was conducted from January 1999 to December 2008. Patients with at least one positive patch test reaction to allergens associated with cosmetic ingredients were studied. The results were evaluated using Pearson's χ²‐test with Yates' continuity correction or Fisher's exact test where appropriate,and a p‐value <0.002 was considered to be statistically significant by Bonferroni correction. Results. There were 1247 cases (239 males and 1008 females; mean age 38.5 years). Fragrance chemicals and preservatives were the most commonly recognized cosmetic allergens. Ammoniated mercury was the only allergen that showed a significantly increased frequency over the 10‐year period (p = 0.0008). Conclusions. Our study showed that ammoniated mercury is an emerging cosmetic allergen, showing an increased prevalence in recent years in Thailand. A focus is required on emerging cosmetic allergens and what may account for the upward trend of cosmetic contact dermatitis.     

A newer approach in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis with QR678® and QR678 Neo®—A prospective pilot study

Background

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects the scalp and is characterized by erythema and oily scales. It could perhaps be difficult to control and could seriously degrade one's quality of life. The study's objective is to assess the effectiveness of intradermal administrations of QR678 Neo® hair growth factor therapy for the treatment of scalp seborrheic dermatitis in both men and women.

Method

Forty male and female patients with clinically diagnosed seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp in the age 18–45 years, not satisfactorily responding to standard therapy for at least 6 months, were included. 1 mL solution of QR678 Neo® was administered in the scalp skin of all patients at 3-week interval till eight sessions. Patients were advised to continue with antifungal shampoo and topical antifungal solution with steroid combination which they had been on during the treatment. Assessment of disease severity, dermoscopic evaluation, and self-assessment were done at baseline and at the end of the fourth and the eighth sessions.

Results

Improvement was observed in adherent scalp flaking score after eighth session (mean = 12) compared to baseline (mean = 60). The dermoscopic evaluation showed a noticeable difference from baseline (mean = 11) in erythema and scaling with the Seborrheic Dermatitis Scalp Severity Index tool at the end of treatment (mean = 2). A high satisfaction score was given for the efficiency in the self-assessment questionnaire.

Conclusion

Our study proved that treatment with QR678 Neo® led to an improvement in the overall scalp condition by the resolution of flaking and inflammation.     

The structural relationship between job satisfaction and organizational commitment of beauty industry employees

Background

Based on the analysis results that can further enhance organizational satisfaction and response to changes in the employment environment of cosmetic employees and workers through organizational commitment and turnover intention of cosmetic.

Objectives

This research paper empirically analyzed changes in employment environment due to coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic and 4th industrial revolution and the effect of employees and job satisfaction on turnover intention in the cosmetic industry, and sought measures necessary for conflict management in industrial sites.

Methods

A self-report questionnaire was conducted on 508 cosmetic implementers. Statistical processing of the data collected by the data analysis method was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) WIN23.0 statistical package program through data coding and data organizing process.

Results

Changes in the employment environment were found to have a significant effect on job satisfaction (t = −11.728, p < 0.05). Changes in the employment environment were found to have a significant effect on organizational commitment, which is a dependent variable (t = −9.476, p < 0.05). Changes in the employment environment and job satisfaction were found to have a significant effect on organizational commitment, and this regression model was found to be statistically significant (F = 67.703, p < 0.05). Job satisfaction showed a significant positive (+) effect on organizational commitment rather than the employment environment (t = 6.235, p < 0.05). As a result, it was found that the organizational commitment and job satisfaction of cosmetic employees and workers affected their turnover intentions due to changes in the employment environment due to the 4th industrial revolution and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

This study focused on the relationship between employment environment changes in the cosmetic industry due to the recent 4th industrial revolution and the COVID-19 pandemic, and the effects of job satisfaction and organizational commitment of cosmetic employees on turnover intention. Based on the results of the analysis that can further increase the organizational commitment and search for job satisfaction of cosmetic employers and workers, we intend to establish the identity of cosmetic industry organizations nationwide and raise community awareness. This study will help the development and growth of the cosmetic industry by providing basic data that can be reborn as a better cosmetic service organization.     

Development and validation of a questionnaire to evaluate how a cosmetic product for oily skin is able to improve well-being in women

BACKGROUND: Skin diseases are known to negatively affect self-image and to have detrimental psychosocial effects. Oily skin is a cosmetic skin problem that women often describe as 'invalidating'. OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess the psychological and psychosocial effects of oily skin condition in women and the outcome of a targeted cosmetic skincare treatment. METHODS: We developed and validated a concise 18-item questionnaire [oily skin self-image questionnaire (OSSIQ)] to assess perception, behavioural, and emotional consequences associated with oily skin condition. The questionnaire was then used to assess the effects of a skincare treatment for oily skin and compare them with sebum level measurements. RESULTS: The 18-item questionnaire clearly distinguished the oily skin group from the control group. Responsiveness, reliability, and construct validity showed satisfactory performance. The questionnaire provided a relevant assessment of the psychological benefits associated with the skincare programme. CONCLUSION: The OSSIQ is a valid tool that can be used to monitor the benefits of cosmetic skincare treatments.     

2007年广州监测点化妆品皮肤病发病情况分析

目的：探讨广州地区2007年化妆品皮肤病发病的流行病学特点。方法：采用回顾性分析方法,对到广州卫生部化妆品皮肤病诊断机构就诊的200例患者的资料进行分析。结果：发病以女性为主,20～39岁年龄段高发,占83%;职业以公司职员、自由职业及学生为主,占64.5%。临床表现主要为化妆品接触性皮炎（占89.50%）。共涉及化妆品355个品种,其中普通化妆品311种,以乳液水剂面霜护肤类为主,占87.6%,特殊化妆品44种,占12.4%,祛痘类产品的投诉突出,且引起的不良反应较为严重。结论：2007年广州地区化妆品皮肤病发病以接触性皮炎为主,主要涉及女性公司职员及学生,主要致病化妆品为普通护肤类产品,其中以祛痘类化妆品最为严重。