IFSCC Congress honours CeraVe and L’Oréal for scalp biology research
This award and study solidify CeraVe and L’Oréal’s leadership in haircare innovation, marking a significant advancement in the science of dandruff and scalp barrier health.
FRANCE – CeraVe and L’Oréal Groupe have jointly won the prestigious Applied Research Award at the 35th International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) Congress for their breakthrough collaborative study on scalp biology and dandruff science.
This pioneering research is recognized as the most comprehensive study to date on dandruff pathophysiology, comparing dandruff-affected scalps to healthy scalps by assessing clinical symptoms, ceramide profiles, microbiome composition, and inflammatory markers across more than 200 participants from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Key highlights of this award-winning study include the discovery of critical microbial drivers of dandruff beyond the long-known fungus Malassezia.
Notably, two bacterial species, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus capitis, were found consistently more abundant in dandruff scalps across all ethnicities, with a strong positive correlation between S. aureus levels and dandruff severity.
The study also uncovered significantly higher virulence factor gene levels associated with S. aureus particularly in Latin/Hispanic and Asian American groups.
Moreover, the research revealed ethnic variations in scalp microbiome profiles and highlighted the role of ceramide deficiency and scalp barrier dysfunction as key components in dandruff development.
This study is the first of its kind to integrate microbiome research with scalp barrier biology through an inclusive lens accounting for ethnic diversity, paving the way for more personalized and effective scalp care treatments.
The discovery of new microbial targets and functional profiles in dandruff biology expands understanding far beyond traditional views.
According to Gene Colón, Global Senior Vice President, Medical Affairs & Communications for CeraVe at L’Oréal, the findings rooted in ceramide science open new perspectives for future innovations.
Qian Zheng, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Advanced Research for North America and Global Head for Regenerative Beauty at L’Oréal, emphasized that this inclusive research approach exemplifies L’Oréal’s pioneering mission to translate deep biological insights into targeted solutions for consumers worldwide.
The 35th IFSCC Annual Congress held at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France, celebrated the star power of cosmetic chemists and marked a significant milestone in advancing cosmetic science.
The event attracted around 1600 cosmetic scientists from around the world, making it one of the largest gatherings of experts in cosmetic research and innovation.
This edition of the congress revolved around the central theme “The Future is Science,” showcasing conferences, oral presentations, and high-level poster sessions that reflected the dynamism and scientific rigour of the cosmetics sector.
Participants had the opportunity to explore pioneering research and the latest ingredient and technological innovations that are shaping the future of the industry.
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