Currents: Managing Hair Disorders

Study uncovers Racial Characteristics of AA in US

Noting that epidemiologic studies on the association between race and alopecia areata (AA) are limited, researchers set out to characterize racial differences of AA in the US. Using logistic regression, the researchers assessed odds of AA and its subtypes for five ethnic/racial groups. A sex-stratified analysis and a sensitivity analysis among dermatologist-confirmed cases were performed. The group identified 9,340 patients with AA and 2,064 noncases. The findings suggest higher AA odds among African Americans and lower odds for Asians, relative to whites. The results were consistent in AA subtypes, dermatologist-confirmed cases, and by sex. For a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease, future studies investigating racial disparity in AA from both clinical and genetic viewpoints are needed, the authors say.

—JAAD 2019 e-Pub

Applied Biology to Launch New Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory for Hair and Skin Disorders

Applied Biology, Inc. has submitted an application for CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act) accreditation with the California Department of Public Health. In addition, Applied Biology has appointed Dr. Daniel YK Chan as its Laboratory Director. According to Applied Biology’s CEO Dr. Andy Goren, “Breakthrough research into the molecular biology underlying skin and hair disorders occurs at a rapid pace; however, only few molecular diagnostic tests are readily available to patients and clinicians. Our aim is to translate innovation in molecular biology into clinical practice.”

The Applied Biology laboratory will offer patients and doctors genetic tests for hair and skin conditions as well as GLP compliant research and development services to corporate partners. Among the research and development services, the Applied Biology Laboratory offers the development of drug response markers (DNA and mRNA) for skin and hair disorders, hair and skin cell culturing assays, and novel assays for in vitro assessment of drug efficacy in the treatment of hair disorders. Among the research and development services, the Applied Biology Laboratory offers the development of drug response markers (DNA and mRNA) for skin and hair disorders, hair and skin cell culturing assays and novel assays for in vitro assessment of drug efficacy in the treatment of hair disorders.

WATCH NOW

Molly A. Hinshaw, MD discusses current evaluation and treatment protocols for common nail conditions.
Visit practicaldermatology.com/meeting-coverage/2019-aad-summer-meeting/nail-therapeutics-update.

DERMA E Expands Natural, Clean Hair Cleansing Line In 2020

With high eco-ethical standards since their inception, DERMA E recognizes the growing need from consumers for clean, natural products and has expaned their natural, clean hair care collection, the company says.

Sulfate and silicone-free and safe for color-treated hair, Derma E’s new Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner are made with therapeutic mint and a unique herbal blend to effectively thicken and strengthen thinning hair. The blend also includes moisturizing panthenol and argan oil to nourish the scalp and hair follicles for stronger, healthier-looking hair. Enriched with eucalyptus oil and cooling spearmint oil, the ingredients in the new Thickening Shampoo help to rejuvenate, stimulate, and make hair appear thicker and fuller. The new Thickening Conditioner is enriched with willow bark extract and peppermint oil to support a healthy scalp and nourished healthy-looking hair texture.

For 2020, DERMA E also revamped the packaging of their entire hair care line that currently includes their top-selling Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner, Nourishing Shampoo & Conditioner, and Restoring Shampoo & Conditioner. The new packaging will consist of larger, slim, streamlined bottles, easy-to-dispense disc top caps, and 25 percent more product, at the same price.

“Today’s consumers are aware of the many benefits of not only choosing clean food options but also the importance of choosing the best, clean products for their hair and skin. Where in the past sulfates, parabens, and various alcohols were used in most products, consumers now seek products that are not only healthier options for their skin and hair, but also the environment, while still demanding high performance,” says Barbara Roll, Chief Marketing Officer of DERMA E.

A survey done by Ingredion, a leading global ingredients solution company, found that 76 percent of consumers were most likely to buy hair care products labeled vegan, green, or ethical within the next six months due to their expectation of these products providing enhanced performance. In the same survey, a total of 59 percent of consumers agreed they would pay more for these products.

Facial Hair and Masks

As the the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) began warning Americans to prepare for the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in the US, this 2017 CDC infographic began to gain popularity on social media. The infographic offers facial hair guidelines for those who wear respirators at work.