Search Results (493)

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent dermatological disorder characterized by excessive sebum production, impaired skin hydration, enlarged pores, and persistent lesions. Chemical peeling is a well-established procedure in cosmetic dermatology, while microneedling has emerged as a promising minimally invasive procedure; however, evidence on their combined use remains limited. This pilot study aimed to compare the efficacy of chemical peeling, combined chemical peeling with microneedling, and a classic cosmetic protocol in patients with mild to moderate acne. Fifteen participants aged 18–45 years were divided into three groups according to the treatment protocol. Groups 1 (chemical peeling) and 3 (classic cosmetic care) each received four sessions at two-week intervals, whereas Group 2 (combined peeling with microneedling) completed seven sessions. Sebum levels, hydration, pore counts, and acne lesions were assessed using digital skin analysis and evaluated statistically by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s HSD test (p < 0.05). Chemical peeling reduced sebum secretion (−17–18%) and acne lesions (−14%) and increased hydration (+22%), although pore counts increased (+8–18%). The combined protocol achieved the most pronounced seboregulation (−23–25%) and lesion reduction (−22%) with pore reduction (−7%), but hydration decreased (−14–19%). The classic treatment produced only modest effects, mainly a slight decrease in sebum (−10%) and lesions (−8%), accompanied by dehydration (−23–26%) and increased pore counts (+14–16%). These findings indicate the efficacy of chemical peeling and its enhancement through combination with microneedling, emphasizing the need for individualized cosmetic strategies and further validation in larger controlled trials. Full article

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by oxidative stress, innate immune dysregulation, vascular instability, and microbiome-related triggers. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gg, licorice) root contains phenolics and triterpenoids with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-angiogenic properties that may benefit rosacea-prone skin. Xanthan-gum hydrogels containing 2% methanolic Gg extract (S1, S2) were prepared and characterized. Rheology, in vitro release, and in vitro permeation were evaluated, with the aim of assessing their suitability as topical formulations for rosacea-prone skin. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Antimicrobial effects were tested against S. pyogenes, S. aureus, and C. acnes. Safety and bioactivity were examined through HaCaT keratinocyte assays (MTT, Neutral Red, LDH), the HET-CAM irritation test, and the CAM angiogenesis assay. Immunocytochemistry was performed on rosacea-related inflammatory markers. Both hydrogels showed suitable rheology, sustained release, and preserved strong antioxidant activity. Moderate antimicrobial effects were observed, particularly against S. pyogenes and C. acnes. HaCaT cell viability remained above 84% for the S2 formulation at the highest concentration (200 µg/mL), indicating improved cytocompatibility compared with formulation S1. The hydrogels were non-irritant in the HET-CAM model and reduced neovascularization in the CAM assay, with a more sustained effect observed for formulation S2. Immunohistochemistry supported potential modulation of inflammatory pathways relevant to rosacea, evidencing suppressed VEGF expression and preserved CD44-mediated integrity, particularly in the Labrasol-based formulation (S2), while Caspase-3 staining indicated a controlled apoptotic profile. Overall, Gg hydrogels are safe, biocompatible, non-irritant, and exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-angiogenic activities, supporting their potential as biocompatible topical formulations with antioxidant and pathway-modulating properties relevant to the biological features associated with rosacea, while underscoring the importance of formulation design. Full article

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pruritic eczematous lesions that significantly alter quality of life of patients. Dupilumab, a new biologic agent, has demonstrated efficacy and safety in the general adult population with AD. However, evidence on its use in elderly patients is limited. Objectives: The objective of this work was to systematically assess the effectiveness and safety of dupilumab in patients aged ≥60 years with AD, based on published data. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PICO(S) framework. Articles written in English and published before 31 December 2024 that investigated patients ≥ 60 years with AD treated with dupilumab were included. Meta-analysis of the observational studies was performed using a random-effects model with subgroup and meta-regression analyses. Results: Twenty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. After 16 weeks of treatment, dupilumab significantly reduced disease severity (EASI: 21.8; 95% CI: 18.3–25.2), intensity of pruritus (P-NRS: 5.8; 95% CI: 4.2–7.3), and quality of life impairment (DLQI: 11.3; 95% CI: 6.1–16.5); all p < 0.001. Meta-regression revealed previous treatment with cyclosporin A as a predictor of a poorer response to treatment. The generalized-prurigo phenotype was associated with worse control of pruritus. The most common adverse events were conjunctivitis, injection site reactions, and facial flushing. Conclusions: Dupilumab appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for AD in elderly patients. More research is warranted to evaluate its long-term effectiveness and safety in this age group. Full article

Background: Behçet-like syndrome (BLS) refers to the presence of Behçet’s disease (BD) features occurring in association with distinct clinical–pathological conditions such as inborn errors of immunity, myeloproliferative disorders, infections, or drug exposure. BLS may differ clinically from BD and is increasingly recognized as a separate entity. Distinguishing BLS from primary BD is essential for appropriate management, and studying BLS may provide insights into BD pathogenesis. Objectives: To summarize clinical features, treatments, and genetic abnormalities reported in BLS, we reviewed all published cases up to January 2024. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was performed using the terms “Behçet-like syndrome”, “Behçet-like disease”, and “Pseudo-Behçet disease”. We included English-language reports of patients > 12 years old with a defined underlying etiology and Behçet-like manifestations, defined by ≥2 ICBD criteria and/or gastrointestinal involvement, mucosal ulcers, thrombosis, or non-recurrent disease. Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, histological, and treatment data were extracted and analyzed descriptively. Results: Of 679 publications, 53 met inclusion criteria, comprising 100 patients with BLS. The median age was 44 years (IQR 22–52), with a female predominance (1:2). Fifty-three percent were from non-European countries. A genetic disorder was identified in 70% of cases, while HLA-B51 was present in 10%. Frequent manifestations included skin lesions (68%), fever (56%), intestinal involvement (43%), and joint symptoms (43%). Treatments included glucocorticoids (65%), conventional DMARDs (32%), and biologics (22%), mainly anti-TNF agents. Antiviral/antibiotic therapy was used in 9% and chemotherapy in 15%. Two patients with trisomy-8 MDS underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Conclusions: Diverse conditions—including monogenic diseases, immune defects, myeloproliferative disorders, infections, and drug-related reactions—can produce Behçet-like features. Our findings highlight differences in clinical expression and treatment response across BLS etiologies. Recognizing BLS is essential for appropriate management and may contribute to a deeper understanding of BD pathogenesis and future targeted therapies. Full article

Background: Nanotechnology provides innovative strategies to enhance drug delivery and therapeutic efficacy through advanced nanocarrier systems. Objectives: This study aimed to develop and optimize a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) co-encapsulating curcumin (CUR) and resveratrol (RESV) using a fractional factorial design to develop a topical formulation with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: NLCs were produced via hot emulsification followed by high-pressure homogenization, and their physicochemical characteristics, drug content, stability, release profile, antioxidant activity, skin delivery, and cellular compatibility were evaluated. Results: The optimized formulation exhibited an average particle size of approximately 300 nm, a polydispersity index below 0.3, and high drug loading for both compounds. Stability studies over 90 days revealed no significant changes in physicochemical parameters, confirming the formulation’s robustness. In vitro release assays demonstrated sustained release of both actives, with 58.6 ± 2.9% of CUR and 97 ± 3% of RESV released after 72 h. Antioxidant activity, assessed by the DPPH and ABTS assays, showed concentration-dependent radical-scavenging effects, indicating antioxidant potential. Skin permeation/retention experiments using porcine skin showed enhanced retention of CUR and RESV within the tissue, with no detectable permeation, indicating suitability for topical delivery. In addition, in vitro cell assays using human keratinocytes showed concentration-dependent responses and acceptable cellular compatibility. Conclusions: Overall, this study demonstrates the successful application of nanotechnology and experimental design to develop stable and efficient lipid-based nanocarriers containing natural polyphenol for topical therapy targeting oxidative and inflammatory skin disorders. Full article

Background/Objectives: The skin is an important indicator of overall health, and its relationship with insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) has garnered increasing attention. This review explores the connection between glucose dysregulation and various dermatological conditions, aiming to highlight integrative approaches for management. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in June and July 2024 across PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. Peer-reviewed studies on glucose dysregulation in dermatology were identified using terms such as “insulin,” “metabolic syndrome,” and “dermatological manifestations.” Relevant studies were selected based on their contributions to understanding these relationships. Results: The review identified significant associations between glucose dysregulation, MetS, and conditions such as psoriasis, acne, acanthosis nigricans, seborrheic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Key findings indicated that elevated insulin levels and inflammatory markers correlate with the severity of these skin disorders. Notably, dietary interventions and probiotics show potential in modulating inflammation and improving metabolic health. Conclusions: There is a clear link between glucose dysregulation and several dermatological conditions, underscoring the importance of a holistic treatment approach. By addressing glucose control and incorporating lifestyle modifications, clinicians can improve patient outcomes and mitigate the complications associated with IR and MetS. Further research is essential to refine these integrative strategies and assess their effectiveness in clinical practice. Full article

Background and Objectives: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent, chronic, relapsing itchy skin disorder, affecting up to 20% of the pediatric population. Topical corticosteroids are the cornerstone of AD treatment, but their use is often limited due to topical corticosteroid phobia among parents. Research on chronic illnesses highlights the significant role of personality traits in treatment adherence, with emotional stability and conscientiousness—within the framework of the Five-Factor Model—emerging as key predictors. The aim of our study was to examine the relationship between parental personality traits and their adherence to the treatment of their children with AD. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Dermatovenereology, University Hospital of Split, involving 90 parents of children diagnosed with AD. Personality traits were evaluated using the abbreviated version of the International Personality Item Pool Big-Five Personality Questionnaire (IPIP 50s). Treatment adherence was assessed through a valid and reliable questionnaire, the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Statistical analyses were performed using JASP v.0.18.1.0. Results: According to MMAS-8, only a small proportion of the sample reported having high adherence (14.4%). The only significant associations between personality traits and adherence were found between conscientiousness and adherence and emotional stability and adherence, where more conscientious participants and more emotionally stable participants reported higher scores. Conclusions: The results suggest that parents of children with AD with higher scores on conscientiousness and emotional stability are more likely to demonstrate better treatment adherence. These insights may encourage a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of children with AD, with an emphasis on providing psychological support to both the children and their parents in order to improve treatment adherence and the further clinical course of the disease. Full article

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting over 85% of adolescents. Emerging evidence indicates that Cutibacterium acnes phylotype IA₁ contributes to acne initiation and progression, yet its precise mechanisms in epidermal keratinocytes remain unclear. This study investigated C. acnes IA1’s effects on keratinocyte behavior using an in vitro HaCaT cell model. Cells were co-cultured with live C. acnes IA₁ (CICC 10864) for 24 h. Transcriptomic profiling identified 769 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; adjusted p < 0.05, |log2FC| > 1), including 392 upregulated and 377 downregulated. The protein–protein interaction network analysis via Cytoscape revealed key hub genes (HNRNPA2B1, HNRNPM, RBM39). Enrichment analyses (GO, KEGG, Reactome, DO) highlighted significant involvement of the C-type lectin receptor (CLR) signaling pathway. Validation experiments showed cellular morphological changes, altered structure, and markedly elevated interleukin-6 (IL-6; p < 0.01), underscoring its role in inflammation. These findings suggest C. acnes IA₁ drives acne pathogenesis by regulating hub genes that influence sebaceous gland inflammation, immune activity, and keratinocyte proliferation, positioning them as potential biomarkers for microbiome-targeted therapies. Limitations include the in vitro model’s lack of in vivo skin microenvironment complexity and use of only one representative IA₁ strain. Full article

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a common dermatological disorder in adolescents, encompassing both non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions, with growing evidence implicating the skin microbiome in its pathogenesis. This study analyzed skin lesion samples from 12 adolescents with AV using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, with 12 healthy skin microbiome datasets as references. A total of 4.7 million high-quality reads were obtained, yielding 765,211 clean reads clustered into 1013 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Microbial communities in lesions differed markedly from those in healthy skin. At the phylum level, lesions showed higher proportions of Bacteroidota and Bacillota, whereas healthy skin was dominated by Actinobacteria. At the genus level, lesions were modestly but significantly higher in Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Peptoniphilus, while Cutibacterium was more abundant in healthy skin. Alpha diversity analysis revealed greater species richness and phylogenetic diversity in healthy skin, but higher evenness in lesions. Beta diversity confirmed significant differences in community structure. Functional prediction identified 391 metabolic pathways, 163 of which differed significantly; only three were enriched in lesions, while 160 were more abundant in healthy skin. Lipase activity was elevated in lesions, whereas hyaluronate lyase activity was higher in healthy skin. These findings indicate that healthy skin supports a richer and more functionally diverse microbial metabolism, whereas acne lesions are associated with reduced metabolic capabilities. Overall, the acne lesion microbiome exhibits reduced diversity, altered bacterial composition, and distinct functional traits compared to healthy skin, underscoring the role of microbial imbalance in acne and suggesting potential microbial targets for treatment. Full article

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder, and cytokines such as interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-19 (IL-19), and C-reactive protein (CRP) are thought to contribute to its immunopathogenesis. This study investigated serum and salivary levels of CRP, IL-17, and IL-19 in patients with AV and examined their relationship with disease severity. A total of 99 participants aged 15–30 years were classified into Control (n = 28), Moderate AV (n = 43), and Severe AV (n = 28) groups using the Global Evaluation Acne (GEA) Scale. Serum and saliva samples were analyzed using ELISA and immunoturbidimetric assays. Statistical comparisons and correlation analyses were performed. Serum IL-17 levels were significantly higher in the control group compared to both acne groups (p < 0.05), with no gender-related differences. Salivary cytokine levels showed no significant group differences. However, IL-17 and IL-19 were strongly correlated in both saliva (r = 0.672, p < 0.005) and serum (r = 0.538, p < 0.005) across the entire study population. Serum and salivary CRP levels showed no significant differences between groups. In contrast to previous reports, our study found lower serum IL-17 levels in AV patients compared to healthy controls, challenging the assumption of its purely pro-inflammatory role and suggesting a potential compensatory or regulatory immune mechanism to maintain homeostasis. These findings may also reflect distinct physiological pathways between systemic interleukin activity and localized skin inflammation. Although salivary cytokine levels did not differ significantly among groups, strong intra-sample correlations highlight their interaction and support saliva’s potential as a non-invasive tool for monitoring immune activity. Full article

Background: Eczematous dermatitis refers to a group of inflammatory skin disorders—including seborrheic, atopic, and contact dermatitis—characterized by epidermal barrier dysfunction and chronic inflammation. Disrupting the itch–scratch cycle and reversing microscopic skin changes are key to improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Aims: This study aimed to assess the clinical and microscopic effects of a topical medical device containing N-butanoyl glutathione (GSH-C4) and hyaluronic acid in patients with inflammatory eczematous dermatitis, combining clinical scores with in vivo confocal and OCT imaging. Methods: A prospective clinical trial enrolled 30 patients with active eczematous lesions. Participants applied a GSH-C4/hyaluronic acid-based product (GSEBA^®) for 28 days. Clinical improvement was evaluated at baseline, day 14, and day 28 using the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA), a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for itching, and a self-reported index of disease impact on quality of life (IDL). Microscopic changes were assessed using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM). Results: After 28 days, the mean IGA score improved from 2.48 to 0.18 (p < 0.001), VAS itching score decreased from 4.52 to 0.32 (p < 0.001), and IDL dropped from 4.86 to 0.79 (p < 0.001). RCM analysis showed significant reductions in key inflammatory features such as spongiosis, vesiculation, and inflammatory infiltrate. OCT revealed a significant decrease in vascularization at 150 μm depth, with no change in collagen density. Conclusions: The GSH-C4/hyaluronic acid-based mousse (GSEBA^®) demonstrated strong clinical efficacy and excellent tolerability in managing eczematous dermatitis. It effectively reduced both symptoms and microscopic markers of inflammation without compromising dermal structure. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with limited effective treatments. Cod skin collagen peptides (CSCPs) have neuroprotective potential for AD but face poor bioavailability—due to gastrointestinal enzyme cleavage and hepatic first-pass metabolism—prompting this study to develop a nanodelivery system to enhance CSCPs’ efficacy. Trimethyl chitosan (TMC)-based CSCP-loaded nanoparticles (CSCPs-NPs) were synthesized via ionic gelation, characterized for physicochemical properties, and tested in a D-galactose-induced AD mouse model (six groups: normal control, model, CSCPs low/high dose, blank NPs, CSCPs-NPs) using behavioral tests, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA. CSCPs-NPs had a hydrodynamic diameter of 93.25 ± 21.52 nm, polydispersity index of 0.18 ± 0.13, 61.17% encapsulation efficiency, and sustained 24 h release. In AD mice, CSCPs-NPs significantly improved cognitive function and motor coordination, reduced hippocampal atrophy, preserved neurons, and mitigated oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis (upregulated Bcl-2, downregulated Bax)—effects matching high-dose free CSCPs. This TMC-based nanoformulation enhances CSCPs’ bioavailability and provides a promising strategy for AD intervention. Full article

Chronic inflammatory skin diseases and neurodegenerative disorders share overlapping genetic, immunologic, and metabolic pathways that may predispose individuals to cognitive decline. This review synthesizes current human genomic, transcriptomic, and bioinformatic evidence linking psoriasis, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and bullous pemphigoid with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Literature from PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar was examined, prioritizing studies integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses. Among inflammatory dermatoses, psoriasis exhibits the strongest overlap with dementia genetics, with shared susceptibility loci including APOE, IL12B, and HLA-DRB5, and transcriptional regulators such as ZNF384 that converge on IL-17/TNF signaling. Rare-variant and pleiotropy analyses further implicate SETD1A and BC070367 in psoriasis–Parkinson’s comorbidity. Rosacea demonstrates upregulation of neurodegeneration-related proteins SNCA, GSK3B, and HSPA8, together with shared regulatory hubs (PPARG, STAT4, RORA) driving NF-κB/IL-17/TNF-dependent inflammation. In atopic dermatitis, rare FLG variants interacting with BACE1 suggest a mechanistic bridge between barrier dysfunction and amyloidogenic processing. Bullous pemphigoid reveals an HLA-DQB1*03:01-mediated immunogenetic link hypothesis and cross-reactive autoantibodies targeting BP180 (collagen XVII) and BP230, highlighting an autoimmune route of neurocutaneous interaction. Other inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases with currently weak or limited genetic evidence are also discussed, as they may represent emerging biological pathways or potential therapeutic targets within the skin–brain connection in the future. The aim of this work is to help clarify these genetic links and to advocate for the routine cognitive assessment of affected patients, enabling early detection, improved long-term quality of life, and the potential for timely therapeutic intervention. Full article

Background: Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory disorder with significant clinical and psychosocial impacts. Medium-depth chemical peels are increasingly used to manage both active acne lesions and atrophic acne scars. This study aimed to quantitatively assess the clinical effectiveness of a novel multimodal medium-depth chemical peel regimen, yellow peel, in improving acne severity and scar depth, as well as skin hydration and sebum production in patients with mild to moderate facial acne. Methods: Twenty patients (17 women and 3 men) aged 20–25 with mild to moderate acne vulgaris underwent two sessions of yellow peel treatment at four-week intervals. The peel protocol combined glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and a multi-acid mask containing retinol, azelaic, phytic, kojic, and salicylic acids. Clinical outcomes were evaluated at baseline, four weeks after the first peel, and two months after the second peel. Assessments included the Investigators Global Assessment (IGA), inflammatory lesion count, 3D scar depth analysis, skin hydration (corneometer), and sebum secretion (sebumeter). Results: Yellow peel treatment significantly reduced acne severity, with an 85% decrease in inflammatory lesion counts and over 20% reduction in scar depth. Skin hydration improved significantly across all facial regions, and sebum secretion decreased substantially, enhancing skin barrier function and seboregulation. Statistical analysis confirmed the treatment’s efficacy with sustained improvements two months post-final peel. Conclusions: The yellow peel protocol is an effective and well-tolerated adjunct therapy for managing mild to moderate acne and atrophic acne scars. By combining exfoliative, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, sebostatic, and depigmenting agents, this multimodal approach delivers comprehensive skin improvement. Further large-scale, controlled studies are recommended to confirm long-term safety and efficacy. Full article

Melanin, a pigment synthesized by melanocytes, serves as the primary defense against UV-induced skin damage due to its potent antioxidant properties. There is increasing interest in natural substances capable of modulating the melanogenic pathway, particularly in hypopigmentation disorders. This study investigated the effect of methanolic extracts from the diatom Odontella aurita—authorized as a food supplement in the EU—on melanogenesis in the B16-F0 murine melanoma cell line. The research evaluated melanin content, tyrosinase activity, and the expression of melanogenesis-related genes and proteins at defined time points. Metabolomic and biochemical analyses were performed to characterize the extract’s composition. Treatment with O. aurita extract significantly increased melanin content in B16-F0 cells by 45% (p < 0.01) compared to control. Tyrosinase activity was elevated by 38% after 24 h (p < 0.01), with gene and protein expression analyses confirming upregulation of Tyrosinase (TYR) after 0.5 h, Tyrosinase Related Protein-1 (TRP1) after 1 h, and Tyrosinase Related Protein-2 (TRP2) after 8 h. The extract also enhanced the cellular antioxidant environment, as evidenced by increased levels of metabolic cofactors and pigment-precursor amino acids. O. aurita methanolic extract accelerates and sustains melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity, distinguishing its effect from single-compound inducers. These findings support the therapeutic potential of O. aurita for pigmentary disorders and skin health. Further studies should investigate its efficacy and safety in vivo and explore its application in cosmeceutical and nutraceutical formulations. Full article