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Groundbreaking Award for Dandruff Study

CeraVe and L'Oréal Group have made headlines once again with their recent achievement at the 35th International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) Congress. The duo has been awarded the prestigious Applied Research Award for their collaborative study focusing on scalp biology and the factors affecting dandruff. This recognition not only highlights their commitment to scientific innovation but also marks a major breakthrough in the understanding of scalp health.

The Study in Detail

The award-winning research is lauded as the first of its kind, offering a comprehensive investigation into the physiology of dandruff. It involved the comparison of scalps afflicted with dandruff against healthy ones. Researchers analyzed clinical symptoms, ceramide profiles, microbiome compositions, and inflammatory markers. The study encompassed over 200 participants from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, providing a diverse dataset that contributes significantly to the findings.

Gene Colón, Global Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs and Communications for CeraVe, emphasizes the study's revolutionary aspects, stating it goes beyond traditional views of dandruff. It underscores the critical role of ceramide deficiency and the malfunctioning of the scalp barrier, along with spotlighting microbial components and ethnic variations in scalp health. Colón states, "Receiving the IFSCC Applied Research Award showcases our shared commitment to scientific innovation and understanding the complex biology of scalp health."

Key Findings

The research unveiled several critical microbial factors associated with dandruff:

1. Bacterial Species Identified: Two bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Staphylococcus capitis (S. capitis), were found to be significantly more prevalent in individuals suffering from dandruff across all ethnic groups.
2. Correlation with Severity: A notable positive correlation was identified between the abundance of S. aureus and both the presence and severity of dandruff.
3. Genetic Markers: Scalps with dandruff showed significantly elevated levels of virulence factor genes, particularly in Latin American/Hispanic and Asian groups, indicating a possible link to the pathogenicity of S. aureus.
4. Personalized Treatment Necessity: This study is unique in characterizing the function of the scalp microbiome across different ethnicities, reinforcing the need for tailored therapeutic approaches.
5. Malassezia Variances: Greater levels of Malassezia—a fungus traditionally associated with dandruff—were evident in most ethnicities, but less so among Asian Americans. Conversely, Malassezia globosa, a prevalent species linked with scalp health, was present in healthy scalps across all populations examined.

A Shift in Perspective

Dr. Qian Zheng, Senior Vice President of Advanced Research for North America and Global Head for Regenerative Beauty at L'Oréal Group, noted that this recognition reflects L'Oréal's leadership in scientific innovation. He stated, "By integrating microbiome research and barrier biology with an inclusive approach, our teams are reshaping scalp care methodologies, turning profound biological insights into targeted solutions that benefit consumers worldwide."

The findings provide a new understanding of the complexities involved in scalp health and may pave the way for future innovations in treatment methodologies. The IFSCC Congress, recognized as the leading international event in cosmetic science, serves as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge advancements, further underlining the importance of this research.

Conclusion

CeraVe, founded in 2005, commits to delivering therapeutic skincare solutions developed with dermatologists to restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier, making it the go-to brand for many dermatologists in the U.S. The groundbreaking research not only supports CeraVe's vision but also enhances the collective aim of fostering better health solutions in skincare. Through continuous innovation and dedication, CeraVe and L'Oréal exemplify the essence of commitment to beauty and wellness.