International Journal of Research in Dermatology

Hair removal options in darker skin types through laser innovation and energy-based modalities

2025-10-25T18:29:02+0530

The rapid growth of aesthetic dermatology has amplified demand for hair removal among individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI. However, traditional laser technologies, developed with lighter phototypes in mind, pose heightened risks of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, scarring, and paradoxical hair growth in melanin-rich skin. This comprehensive review reconceptualizes the hair removal paradigm in skin of color (SOC) by integrating recent clinical data, histologic insights, and safety profiles across diverse technologies. Using dermal penetration models and comparative energy delivery diagrams, we demonstrate how long-pulsed Nd:YAG (1064 nm) lasers offer deeper follicular targeting with minimal epidermal melanin interaction, establishing them as the preferred modality in darker skin tones. We explore the emergence of melanin-independent radiofrequency (RF) and RF microneedling (RFM) systems, which generate controlled dermal heating without chromophore reliance, expanding their use in pseudofolliculitis barbae and scarring conditions. Topical alternatives like thioglycolates and eflornithine are re-evaluated for their synergistic potential in combination therapies, emphasizing safe regimens supported by evidence-based pre/post-treatment protocols. Importantly, this review addresses the critical gaps in dermatologic curricula, clinical trials, and device safety testing for SOC populations. Through an intersectional lens, we call for the development of Fitzpatrick-stratified laser protocols, standardization of treatment parameters, and inclusion of curl pattern morphology in care planning. By visualizing risk stratification trends, procedural pathways, and Melan in-histology interactions, this review offers a blueprint for delivering inclusive, precision-based cosmetic dermatology to historically underserved communities.

Mindfulness and the Mediterranean diet as alternative therapies in ambulatory care of psoriasis

2025-10-25T18:28:59+0530

Psoriasis is a chronic disease marked by intense inflammatory processes and a significant emotional effect. The progression of long-term emotional stress and poor dietary intake is a crucial factor; therefore, it's vital to have whole-person care. In this context, mindfulness appears to be rising as a viable cooperative strategy with the potential to promote emotional stability and enhance patients' wellness. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of holistic therapy supported by the mediterranean diet and mindfulness (MBI) through a review of up-to-date scientific research. A methodical research was conducted in the PubMed database using the keywords: “psoriasis,” “types of psoriasis,” “factors and psoriasis,” “pathophysiology and psoriasis or inflammation,” “mindfulness and psoriasis,” “meditation and psoriasis,” “cytokines and psoriasis,” and “psoriasis diagnosis.” Articles published between 2020 and 2025, in English or Spanish, with full-text access and peer review, were included. A total of 57 articles were considered. Evidence compiled over the most recent 5 years supports that mindfulness and the Mediterranean diet are successful therapies in psoriasis disease and, together, can improve outpatient healing and time to treatment, particularly by modulating the expression and activity of cytokines, such as TNF-α, interleukins (IL-1β, IL -6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, IL-23), IFN-γ, and cortisol levels. The implementation of the Mediterranean diet and mindfulness represents an effective and viable alternative in the outpatient treatment of psoriasis, with a positive impact on physical and emotional health.

Indian dermatological experts’ consensus on topical peptides for revising acne scars: IDEAL 2025

2025-10-25T18:29:03+0530

Acne scars are the common and one of the challenging conditions to treat that are often encountered at dermatologist’s clinic. Peptides in cosmetics have gained popularity due to their potential benefits in promoting skin health and anti-aging properties. These small protein fragments can help stimulate collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin elasticity. When incorporated into skincare products, peptides work by sending signals to the skin cells, encouraging them to function optimally and maintain a youthful appearance. However, it is essential to choose products from reputable brands, as the efficacy of topical peptides can vary significantly among different formulations. This article discusses the potential role of topical peptides in acne scar management. Experts group meeting was conducted across the four zones and faculty part of acne scar forum discussed the role of peptides along with evidence-based data sharing on peptides was done. Following the meeting the dermatologist were asked to share their opinion and insights on using peptides in their practice and the data was captured to better understand the product. It was found that dermatologists believed that Peptides are valuable topical agents that can be beneficial in various scenarios where it can be utilized as home-based treatment or an adjutant to the various office-based treatment to expedite overall treatment outcome. Since peptides do not irritate or dry up the skin like other topical medicines do, most doctors believed they have an advantage over them.

The association between atopic dermatitis and cellulitis: a case report and literature review

2025-10-25T18:29:02+0530

There are numerous racial and ethnic differences in atopic dermatitis (AD) morphology, distributions, texture, and pigmentation that make diagnosing AD challenging across Fitzpatrick skin types. This incredibly complex pathophysiology involves interactions between the innate and adaptive immune system, keratinocytes and sensory nerve cells. When patients attend busy clinic setting, dermatologists frequently have insufficient time to educate patients adequately regarding the multiple factors that are important in managing AD. Management involves parental and patient education as well as pharmacological management such as topical creams, calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine), methotrexate, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil and newer targeted therapies like dupilumab and JAK inhibitors. Recurrent bacterial skin infections and lichenification are typically associated with moderate to severe AD. Staphylococcus aureus is a gram positive, beta-hemolytic, catalase positive, coagulase positive cocci occurring in clusters. This organism has a predilection for skin (stratum corneum), heart, and the joints. Dupilumab is a new biologic therapy approved by the food and drugs administration (FDA) for the treatment of moderate- severe AD. It blocks the IL-4 and IL-13 signaling, which are key cytokines driving inflammation in AD.

A new variant of superficial lipomatosus nevus: a case report

2025-10-25T18:29:04+0530

Superficial lipomatosus nevus, or nevus lipomatosus superficialis (NLS), is a benign skin hamartoma characterized by ectopic deposition of mature adipose tissue within the dermis. NLS is a rare type of hamartoma with two clinical forms, namely the classical (multiple) and the solitary type. Diagnosis of NLS requires histopathological examination to confirm its features. Therefore, this study aimed to report a case of a new variant of NLS in a 50-year-old female patient who had an enlarging and troublesome patch on the right side of the neck for the past three years, and was unresponsive to previous treatments. Dermatological examination showed a well-defined macule, measuring 6×3 cm, with erythema, a brownish color, an active edge, and no scaling. Laboratory test results were within normal limits. Initially, the lesion was suspected to be superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The patient was subjected to excision, and histopathology results confirmed NLS. An excision was then carried out to remove the lesion.

An uncommon presentation of scalp sarcoidosis: window to systemic sarcoidosis

2025-10-25T18:29:01+0530

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem disease with obscure etiology, slight female preponderance and mainly affects lungs, lymph nodes, skin and eyes. Cutaneous involvement is polymorphic, seen in 25-30% of patients and represents tip of an iceberg of systemic involvement. Scalp sarcoidosis though common, it rarely presents as sole manifestation. Though histopathology and reticulin staining serve as confirmatory, full body examination, pulmonary function test and blood examination including serum angiotensin converting enzyme and calcium levels, ophthalmological examination and tuberculosis testing is necessary. We present such an unusual case of scalp sarcoidosis which found to be a window to a systemic disease.

Cutaneous amebiasis: diagnostic challenges in a rare genital presentation

2025-10-25T18:29:00+0530

Cutaneous amebiasis (CA) is a rare, often misdiagnosed manifestation of Entamoeba histolytica infection, typically associated with gastrointestinal disease. Its non-specific presentation mimics malignancies or ulcerative conditions, posing diagnostic challenges, particularly in endemic areas with poor sanitation. A 35-year-old immunocompetent female presented with a two-month history of a non-healing ulcer (4×3 cm) on the labia majora and minora, initially misdiagnosed as genital herpes. Despite treatment with valacyclovir, corticosteroids, and empirical antibiotics (doxycycline, nadifloxacin, and azithromycin), the ulcer persisted. Examination revealed a painful ulcer with undermined margins, necrotic slough, and erythema, without systemic symptoms. Laboratory tests (negative ANA, HIV, and Tzanck smear) ruled out autoimmune and viral causes. Histopathological biopsy confirmed CA, showing E. histolytica trophozoites, hyperplastic squamous epithelium, and chronic inflammation. Oral metronidazole (400 mg thrice daily) and topical metronidazole achieved significant healing within two weeks and complete resolution by one month. The case highlights the diagnostic complexity of cutaneous amoebiasis, as its genital presentation resembles herpes or malignancy. Histopathology was critical for diagnosis, especially without intestinal involvement, suggesting possible nosocomial or hygiene-related transmission. Metronidazole’s efficacy aligns with standard protocols, but CA’s rarity delays recognition. Cutaneous amoebiasis requires heightened clinician awareness to avoid misdiagnosis. Histopathological confirmation and prompt metronidazole therapy ensure excellent outcomes. Enhanced vigilance and public health measures are essential in endemic regions to manage this rare, treatable condition effectively.

The skin's secret script: fingerprints of CD34 and the dolphin dance of Schwann cells

2025-10-25T18:29:00+0530

Segmental neurofibromatosis (SNF), or Riccardi type V, is an uncommon mosaic variant of neurofibromatosis type 1, arising from postzygotic mutations in the NF1 gene. It reveals itself through dermatomally confined clusters of neurofibromas, usually in the absence of systemic features or family history. A 55-year-old woman presented with multiple, progressively enlarging papulonodular lesions localized to the left upper arm. Histopathological analysis demonstrated a non-encapsulated dermal spindle cell tumor with elongated, wavy, buckled nuclei-reminiscent of “diving dolphins”-set within a fibro-myxoid, mast cell-rich stroma. Immunohistochemistry further refined the picture: Schwann cells showed diffuse S100 positivity, while CD34 staining unveiled the delicate “fingerprint” pattern of dendritic fibroblasts. Taken together, these findings confirmed the diagnosis of neurofibroma. The segmental distribution and absence of systemic features established the diagnosis of SNF. The lesions were excised sequentially using elliptical incisions, leading to uneventful recovery and satisfactory cosmetic results. This case underscores the diagnostic value of correlating clinical distribution with distinctive microscopic clues. The dermatomal clustering of lesions, the evocative “diving dolphin” nuclei, and the CD34 fingerprint pattern together form a compelling diagnostic triad of SNF. Awareness of these features helps avoid misclassification among spindle cell tumours and ensures that management remains both accurate and tailored to patient needs.

Trifarotene triumph: a novel topical approach for progressive cribriform and zosteriform hyperpigmentation

2025-10-25T18:28:55+0530

Progressive cribriform and zosteriform hyperpigmentation (PCZH) is an uncommon idiopathic dermatosis, typically presenting in adolescence as asymptomatic hyperpigmented lesions distributed along Blaschko’s lines. Treatment options remain limited, with no standardized therapy established. A 21-year-old healthy female presented with a 1.5-year history of progressive, asymptomatic hyperpigmented patches involving the right torso, abdomen, lower limb, shoulder, and back. Histopathology confirmed PCZH, demonstrating epidermal hyperplasia, basal layer hyperpigmentation, and pigmentary incontinence. Owing to the patient’s reluctance to undergo laser therapy, a conservative off-label regimen of topical trifarotene (50 µg/g) was initiated nightly. After six months, the patient achieved near-complete clearance of pigmentation with excellent tolerability. Trifarotene, a fourth-generation topical retinoid, exhibits high selectivity for retinoic acid receptor-γ (RAR-γ), the predominant isoform in epidermis. It enhances keratinocyte differentiation, regulates pigmentation, and modulates inflammatory pathways at lower doses with superior tolerability compared to earlier retinoids. Although primarily approved for acne, its pharmacological profile supports potential utility in pigmentary dermatoses such as PCZH. This case highlights the successful off-label use of trifarotene in PCZH, underscoring its promise as a novel therapeutic approach in idiopathic pigmentary disorders.

Abstracts Presented at the Inaugural DermLink Scholars Research Conference, August 2nd, 2025

2025-09-12T11:36:53+0530

Abstracts Presented at the Inaugural DermLink Scholars Research Conference, August 2nd, 2025

A split-face randomized controlled trial comparing high and low power electrosurgical settings in the treatment of dermatosis papulosa nigra

2025-10-25T18:29:06+0530

Background: Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a benign skin condition affecting predominantly individuals with Fitzpatrick skin type IV-VI. Electrosurgical treatment is cheaper and readily available, but optimal power settings remain undefined. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy, safety, and cosmetic outcomes of high- versus low-power electrosurgery settings in the treatment of DPN.

Methods: A split-face, evaluator-blinded, randomized controlled trial, 58 participants with Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI underwent treatment using both high-power and low-power electrosurgical settings (each set at 9 Watts) on opposite sides of the face or neck. Outcomes—lesion clearance, scarring, and pigmentation—were assessed via standardized photography two weeks post-procedure by blinded dermatologists.

Results: High-power settings resulted in higher lesion clearance (82.8% versus 77.6%, p<0.001) but were associated with significantly more moderate scarring and pigmentation. Low-power settings showed better cosmetic outcomes (mild scarring: 93.1% versus 87.9%; mild pigmentation: 87.9% versus 72.4%). Overall efficacy, defined as excellent clearance (>85%) with minimal cosmetic side effects, did not differ significantly between groups (p=0.56).

Conclusions: Although, low-power setting electrosurgery of DPN offers comparable efficacy to high-power settings, it may require more treatment cycles to eliminate all lesions. It is also the preferable setting for individuals prone to scarring or pigmentary changes.

Sociodemographic determinants of dermatological diseases among paediatric patients attending clinics at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria

2025-10-25T18:28:58+0530

Background: Dermatological diseases are common among children in tropical regions, affecting physical, emotional, and social well-being. In Nigeria, limited attention is given to their socio-demographic determinants.
This study aimed to evaluate the influence of socio-demographic factors on dermatological diseases among pediatric patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022. All 491 pediatric patients aged 0-17 years with dermatological diagnoses and complete socio-demographic data were included. Data were obtained from clinic registers and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations, with p<0.05 considered significant.

Results: Inflammatory skin disorders (37.9%), fungal infections (18.9%), and parasitic infections (13.8%) were most prevalent. Atopic dermatitis (18.5%) was the most common diagnosis. Age significantly influenced disease type: atopic dermatitis in infants, tinea capitis in school-age children, and acne in adolescents (p<0.001). Socio-economic status and parental education were also significant (p<0.001), with low-income children more affected by infectious dermatoses, while higher-income households presented more inflammatory conditions. Gender and residence showed no significant associations.

Conclusions: Socio-demographic factors strongly shape pediatric skin disease patterns. Targeted interventions and improved dermatological services are needed to reduce inequalities and enhance child health outcomes in the region.

Comparison between conservative and surgical management of ingrown toenail in Bangladeshi patients

2025-10-25T18:28:57+0530

Background: Ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) is a common and painful condition that affects daily activities and quality of life. Treatment options include conservative and surgical interventions, with varying efficacy and patient outcomes. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of conservative versus surgical management of ingrown toenails in Bangladeshi patients.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Nail Unit, Aurora Skin and Aesthetic Center, Dhaka, over six months (10 January to 09 July 2024). A total of 100 patients with clinically diagnosed ingrown toenail were enrolled and equally divided into two groups: 50 patients received conservative treatment (topical antibiotics, proper nail trimming, and footwear advice) and 50 underwent surgical intervention (partial nail avulsion with/without matrixectomy). Outcomes measured included healing rate, healing time, pain reduction (VAS), recurrence, infection, patient satisfaction, and work/school absenteeism. Data were analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 25.

Results: The groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, affected toe, and disease severity. Surgical treatment showed significantly better outcomes: complete healing in 94% versus 78% (p=0.02), shorter mean healing time (10.1±2.7 versus 13.5±3.2 days; p<0.001), greater pain reduction (VAS: 5.1 versus 4.2; p=0.001), and lower recurrence (4% versus 18%; p=0.03). Patient satisfaction was higher in the surgical group (92% versus 68%; p=0.003), with fewer missed workdays and repeat visits.

Conclusion: Surgical management of ingrown toenails provides superior outcomes in terms of healing, pain relief, and recurrence compared to conservative treatment, and should be considered for definitive management.

A comparative study to evaluate the Q3 characteristics of different tretinoin microspheres available in the Indian market to the innovator or the reference listed drugs

2025-10-25T18:29:05+0530

Background: With the increasing availability of tretinoin microsphere gels in the Indian pharmaceutical market, comparative evaluation against market products and the U.S. reference listed drug (RLD) becomes essential to assess quality, safety, and performance consistency.

Methods: This study presents a comprehensive Q3 characterization a test product with 0.04% marketed by Emcutix in comparison with the U.S. RLD, retin-A micro gel, and various Indian marketed tretinoin gel brands A, B, and C (0.04% tretinoin). The evaluation focused on key physicochemical and structural attributes including appearance, texture, pH, drug content, viscosity, specific gravity, phase morphology, and in vitro release testing (IVRT).

Results: The test product 0.04% exhibited visual appearance, texture, pH, and tretinoin content similar to RLD. In contrast, the marketed products demonstrated deviations in appearance and suboptimal drug content, failing to meet USP and BP overage allowances. Viscosity (38,000 cPs) and specific gravity (1.047) of the test product 0.04% were within acceptable ranges, closely matching the RLD values. Microsphere morphology revealed well-formed, spheroidal particles in test product 0.04% and brand A formulation, while brand C and Brand B lacked such microsphere structures. IVRT profiles showed that the test product and brand A formulation showed the slowest, most sustained release, whereas brand B and brand C showed faster release kinetics, correlating with the absence of microspheres.

Conclusions: Overall, the test product gels demonstrate Q3 equivalence to the RLD and outperform Indian market products in structural and release characteristics, suggesting their suitability for bioequivalence and regulatory alignments.

Glucocorticoid receptor blockage and thymidine phosphorylase inhibition: a new treatment option for psoriasis

2025-10-25T18:29:04+0530

Background: The present study describes the efficacy of an ointment widely used in the treatment of psoriasis blocking glucocorticoid (GR) receptor in KU812 cells.

Methods: The ointment is composed of various phyto-actives source from the botanicals such as Wrightia tinctoria, Cynodon dactylon, Boswellia serrata, and Hydnocarpus laurifolia.

Results: The present findings clearly demonstrate the ointment having steroid-like effect essential for the treatment of psoriasis. The steroid like effect would hinder/reduce the inflammatory events, the major clinical manifestation in psoriasis. Further the ointment also has exhibited effect in inhibiting thymidine phosphorylase (TP) activity and thereby prevent/reduce the events that lead to angiogenesis and flow pro-inflammatory mediators at the site of lesion. Angiogenesis is one of the early changes that prelude inflammatory cascade.

Conclusions: The dual efficacy of the ointment viz., blocking GR and inhibiting TP enzyme and thereby suppressing angiogenesis clearly indicate the essential therapeutic effect of the ointment for the treatment of psoriasis.

Clinico-dermoscopic evaluation of cervico-facial melanosis with histopathological correlation

2025-10-25T18:29:01+0530

Background: Cervico-facial melanosis, due to their visibility are a frequent cause of dermatologic consultation causing significant cosmetic and psychosocial burden. For successful treatment, diagnosis of the facial melanosis is important. Combining different modalities like dermoscopy and histopathology helps in better management of these disorders. Aim of the study was to study the clinical profile of cervico-facial melanosis and evaluate them with a dermoscope and to correlate histopathological findings with clinical and dermoscopic findings.

Methods: Study was conducted from July 2022 to December 2023. 50 patients suffering from cervico-facial hypermelanosis were enrolled. Complete clinical evaluation with detailed history and physical examination was done. All patients underwent skin biopsy and dermoscopic evaluation.

Results: In the present study all patients fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria and willing for biopsy were only enrolled, the most common diagnosis being lichen planus-pigmentosus (LPP) in 18(36%) patients, ashy dermatosis (AD) in 15(30%), postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in 6(12%), acanthosis nigricans (AN) in 4 (8%), Riehls melanosis (RM) in 3 (6%), melasma in 2 (4%), nevus of ota (NOO) in 1 (2%), macular amyloidosis (MA) in 1 (2%) patient.

Conclusions: Hyperpigmentary disorders have often shown that Clinical examination alone can misdiagnose certain conditions. Hence this study reinforces that the dermoscope proves to be a valuable tool in diagnosis, prognosis, and follow up of disorders of cervico-facial hyperpigmentation in conjunction with HPE for confirmation and effective management of these cases.

Subclinical atherosclerosis and serum lipid levels in relation to ultrasonographic enthesopathy in psoriasis patients, a single-center and comparative cross-sectional study

2025-10-25T18:28:59+0530

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterised by persistent oxidative stress and elevated serum lipid levels, which are risk factors for atherosclerosis. Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a validated measure of subclinical atherosclerosis, while chronic inflammation in psoriasis may contribute to both entheseal and vascular pathology. Hence, this study was aimed to evaluate subclinical atherosclerosis using CIMT, serum lipid levels and their correlation with ultrasonographic enthesopathy in psoriasis patients without musculoskeletal symptoms.

Methods: A single-centred, comparative cross-sectional study was conducted, including 80 psoriasis patients without musculoskeletal symptoms or comorbidities and 80 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Demographic parameters, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), and serum lipid profiles (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, VLDL, triglycerides) were assessed. Ultrasonographic CIMT and entheseal sites were evaluated using OMERACT ultrasound consensus criteria. Entheseal scores were correlated with CIMT, BMI, and lipid levels, and results were compared between groups using the standard t-test.

Results: Psoriasis patients (mean age: 41.56 years; mean disease duration: 5.85 years) showed significantly higher mean CIMT, LDL, VLDL, and total entheseal scores compared to controls (p<0.05). Ultrasonographic entheseal inflammation scores significantly correlated with serum triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, and CIMT, while entheseal structural scores correlated with LDL, VLDL, and CIMT (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Subclinical atherosclerosis, serum lipid levels, and ultrasonographic entheseal abnormalities in psoriasis patients are significantly associated, reflecting a heightened inflammatory burden that links vascular and entheseal pathologies. These findings emphasise the need for integrated cardiovascular and musculoskeletal monitoring in psoriasis management.

Study of the density of Demodex mite in patients with topical steroid damage

2025-10-25T18:28:57+0530

Background: There is a possible association between the usage of topical steroids on the face and the density of Demodex mites. This study was undertaken with the aim to study the density of Demodex mites in patients with topical steroid-damaged faces.

Methods: This cohort study included 232 patients with TSDF (group A) and 40 patients with no facial dermatological lesions and conditions and with no history of use of topical steroids (group B). The sample from the skin was collected using the skin surface biopsy (SSB) technique with cyanoacrylic glue and skin tape stripping (STS) method.

Results: There was a significantly greater density of Demodex mites amongst group A subjects compared to group B subjects [18.5% vs 5.0%] (p value <.05). There was no statistically significant association between the duration and potency of TC use and the density of Demodex mites (p value >0.05). Clinical features were also not found to have a significant association with the potency of TC used.

Conclusions: Infestation of facial skin with Demodex mites is significantly associated with the use of topical steroids on the face. There was no statistically significant association between the duration and potency of TC use and the density of Demodex mites.

Retinol, retinal and retinoic: making sense of skincare with vitamin A derivatives

2025-10-25T18:28:56+0530

Background: Topical retinoids such as retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid are widely used for skin rejuvenation. Understanding their skin absorption and molecular effects through non-invasive methods can optimize their therapeutic use while minimizing adverse effects.

Methods: This study involved human participants who applied commercially available retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid formulations over 12 weeks. All assessments were non-invasive, utilizing high-resolution skin imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and confocal microscopy to monitor changes in skin structure, pigmentation, and elasticity. Skin responses, absorption levels, and molecular activity were inferred from imaging biomarkers and skin parameter measurements, with ethical approval and informed consent obtained.

Results: Data indicated that retinal achieved approximately 25% higher skin penetration compared to retinol (p<0.01). Imaging analyses showed that retinal significantly enhanced skin renewal markers, correlating with a 35% greater reduction in wrinkle depth and a 22% increase in skin elasticity versus retinol. Participants using retinoic acid experienced rapid improvements within 4 weeks but reported higher rates of skin irritation (p<0.01). Overall, retinal demonstrated a favorable balance of efficacy and tolerability based on non-invasive assessments.

Conclusions: Non-invasive imaging and biomarker analysis suggest that retinal is an effective and well-tolerated topical agent for skin rejuvenation, providing superior skin improvements with minimal adverse effects. These findings support the potential of retinal as a preferred retinoid formulation in clinical skincare applications.

Hair growth efficacy and safety assessment of an ayurvedic leave-on treatment: a clinical trial

2025-10-25T18:28:55+0530

Background: This clinical study was undertaken to assess the safety, efficacy of an Ayurvedic leave-on treatment for hair loss in healthy Indian adults (both male and female). The study also aimed to elucidate the product’s mechanism of action through in vitro analyses.

Methods: Healthy male and female volunteers experiencing hair loss and hair thinning were enrolled for clinical study. Subjects were screened based on predefined criteria, including specific hair density and thinning parameters, and the absence of underlying medical conditions that could contribute to hair loss. The study design included a washout period prior to treatment initiation. The treatment phase lasted for three months, during which participants applied the product regularly and visited the study center at scheduled intervals for follow-up assessments and measurements. An in vitro study was conducted using human dermal papilla cells to investigate the mechanism of action (MoA) of the Ayurvedic leave-on treatment.

Results: The Ayurvedic leave-on treatment demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing hair fall and improving hair density in both male and female subjects compared to baseline measurements. Noticeable improvements observed in increase in hair density, reduction in hair fall and over all hair and scalp health from the second week of application and continued throughout the treatment period.

Conclusion: The Ayurvedic leave-on formulation demonstrated a clinically significant increase in hair density and improvement in the anagen: telogen ratio, indicating reduced hair fall and normalization of the hair cycle. This is mechanistically supported by the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in dermal papilla cells, promoting follicular angiogenesis.