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CeraVe and L'Oréal Groupe Clinch IFSCC Applied Research Award for Landmark Dandruff Study

In a significant milestone for scientific innovation in hair and scalp health, CeraVe and L'Oréal Groupe have been awarded the Applied Research Award at the prestigious 35th International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) Congress. This honor recognizes their groundbreaking collaborative research into scalp biology, focusing on the complexities of dandruff and scalp barrier science.

Gene Colón, Global Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs Communications for CeraVe at L'Oréal, articulated the value of this accolade, stating, "Receiving the IFSCC Applied Research Award symbolizes our joint commitment to scientific exploration and understanding the complex biology of skin and scalp barrier health." This pivotal study transcends conventional perceptions of dandruff, spotlighting the significance of ceramide deficiency and scalp barrier dysfunction, intertwined with the microbiome's role and ethnic variations.

The research, a unique exploration into scalp health, compared scalps affected by dandruff with those that are healthy. By evaluating clinical symptoms, ceramide profiles, microbiome compositions, and inflammatory markers, the team has provided the most thorough understanding of dandruff-related pathophysiology to date. Notably, over 200 participants from various racial and ethnic backgrounds provided a comprehensive dataset for this innovative study.

Qian Zheng, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Advanced Research for North America and Global Head of Regenerative Beauty at L'Oréal Groupe, further emphasized the impact of this research. “This recognition reflects L'Oréal's Research Innovation teams' leadership in scientific innovation and our ongoing mission to pioneer skin, hair, and scalp science.” By melding microbiome insights with barrier biology through an inclusive lens, the L'Oréal team is transforming how scalp care interventions are approached, translating sophisticated biological knowledge into effective and tailored solutions for consumers worldwide.

This groundbreaking research is a continuation of earlier microbiome studies, expanding its scope significantly. While prior research highlighted the scalp's microbiome globally, this IFSCC-recognized work digs deeper into ethnic differences, marking the first time the functional profile of the microbiome was investigated in relation to dandruff. Key findings include important insights about bacterial drivers like Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Staphylococcus capitis (S. capitis), which were found in higher abundance in dandruff across all ethnic groups. Moreover, a noteworthy correlation was discovered between S. aureus levels and both the presence and severity of dandruff.

Further, the research revealed elevated virulence factor (VF) gene levels in dandruff scalps, especially within Latin/Hispanic and Asian American populations, indicating a greater susceptibility based on ethnic origin. The study underscores a compelling need for personalized treatment approaches tailored to diverse ethnicities. While Malassezia levels were elevated in dandruff-affected scalps across all groups except for Asian Americans, another prevalent species of this fungus was more common in healthy scalps among all populations, suggesting complex interactions at play in scalp health.

The IFSCC Congress, an esteemed international platform for cosmetic science, provides a unique chance for industry professionals to convene and highlight leading scientific advancements. Established in 2005, CeraVe has made it its mission to deliver therapeutic skincare solutions, evolving into the leading dermatologist-recommended brand in the U.S. CeraVe products include skin-identical ceramides and leverage MVE Technology that ensures long-lasting hydration. Available in over 100 countries, CeraVe aims to enhance skin health worldwide.

At the same time, L'Oréal, a titan in the beauty industry for over a century, has continuously focused on fulfilling consumers' beauty aspirations through a responsible and sustainable approach. With a diverse array of brands and a commitment to scientific innovation, L'Oréal champions the mission of achieving responsible beauty for all, reinforcing its standing as a frontrunner in the cosmetic field.

This recognition by IFSCC not only shines a light on the importance of innovative research in cosmetic sciences but also encourages ongoing exploration into understanding the nuanced biology of scalp care, paving the way for future developments in the industry.