Cosmetic Acceptability Research Articles

Patient satisfaction with endoscopic ear surgery technique: a comparative study with the postauricular incision microscopic technique

BackgroundEndoscopic ear surgery has numerous benefits, such as the capacity to obtain high-resolution pictures and visualize normally inaccessible locations such as the retrotympanum, sinus tympani, and facial recess. These areas are generally difficult to access with traditional microscopic techniques. Endoscopic ear surgery reduces operating time when performed by skilled surgeons, without the need for a postauricular incision wound.An essential aspect to consider when evaluating the effects of any procedure on individual satisfaction is the assessment of health-associated quality of life. It is a tool used for subjective assessment, which is regarded as a reliable measure of the satisfaction perceived—whether physically or mentally—resulting from a certain procedure.The goal of this study was to identify the benefits of middle ear surgery when done endoscopically compared to postauricular microscopic techniques in middle ear surgery. This was achieved by evaluating and comparing the level of satisfaction among patients who underwent either microscopic or endoscopic ear surgery.MethodsThe Chronic Ear Surgery Survey (CESS), a 13-point Likert scale survey designed specifically for assessing outcomes of surgery for chronic middle ear disease, was implemented to measure patient satisfaction. The survey comprises three subscales. We performed a retrospective study at the Otorhinolaryngology Department, Cairo University, Egypt. The study encompassed individuals who underwent surgery on the middle ear between March 2018 and September 2021.The patients were scheduled into two categories according to the technique of surgery (whether endoscopic or microscopic) in order to assess postoperative satisfaction using the Chronic Ear Surgery Survey (CESS).ResultsOur research findings demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the two categories in terms of the overall scores and all subscale scores of the Chronic Ear Surgery Survey (CESS), with patients who had middle ear surgery endoscopically (EES) showing better outcomes.ConclusionsIdentifying the elements that are strongly associated with subjective outcomes can assist surgeons in identifying patients who are more likely to have poorer satisfaction. This knowledge can be valuable in preoperative counseling. Endoscopic ear surgery (EES) seems to have a higher level of cosmetic acceptability, especially in terms of enhancing the socially related aspects of a patient's pleasure. This work thus supports the ongoing integration of endoscope utilization in otological surgical procedures.

Photo Visualization of Skintone Compatibility of an SPF 35 Sunscreen.

Visual casts and discoloration are common barriers to sunscreen use in melanin-rich populations. However, photoprotective measures are essential for individuals with all skin types, including darker skin. Single-center, 7-day, open-label study of healthy adult females with Fitzpatrick Skin Types (FST) IV to VI and sensitive skin treated with once-daily daily facial moisturizer sun protection factor 35 (DFM SPF35). Subjects completed a cosmetic acceptability questionnaire at days 1 and 7. Photography using VISIA CR was performed at day 7. Adverse events were monitored throughout the study. Thirty-two (32) subjects participated; 31.3% had FST IV, 53.1% V, and 15.6% VI skin. DFM SPF35 was viewed as cosmetically elegant. At day 1, 96.7% of subjects agreed product was easy to apply; 90.0% reported soft skin after product use; 86.7% said it had a lightweight, non-greasy feel and hydrated the skin. At day 7, 93.7% reported no visible white residue on their skin and said the product applied easily/absorbed well. The majority (90.6%) would continue using and would recommend the product; and 87.5% reported the product blended seamlessly into their skin, which agreed with clinical photography. Responses were consistent among subjects with normal, oily, or combination skin. No adverse events were reported. DFM SPF35 blended well into the skin and was perceived favorably among subjects with SOC after 1 and 7 days of use. Subjects felt it had good cosmetic acceptability without unacceptable white residues or a greasy feeling. Dermatologists need to be versed in products that can be used on a variety of skin types.J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(7):515-518.  doi:10.36849/JDD.8223.

Social Media Influence on Body Image and Cosmetic Surgery Considerations: A Systematic Review.

Social media platforms like Instagram (Meta Platforms, Inc.,Menlo Park, California, United States) and Snapchat(SnapInc., California, United States) significantly influence motivations for aesthetic surgery by promoting idealized and digitally enhanced images. Understanding their impact on body image dissatisfaction and acceptance of cosmetic procedures is crucial. A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines explored the link between social media, body image dissatisfaction, and cosmetic surgery. The review included 25 studies with 13,731 participants. Specific findings revealed that 70% of young adult women and 60% of young adult men report dissatisfaction with their bodies, leading to increased surgical considerations. The search process utilized databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, employing keywords like "cosmetic surgery," "social media," and "body image dissatisfaction" for articles published between January 2013 and December 2023. Both men and women show increased dissatisfaction with body parts, leading to surgical considerations. Social media's emphasis on visual aesthetics fosters body dissatisfaction and social appearance anxiety, especially through selfies. Cultural norms and celebrity influence further shape beauty perceptions. While social media promotes cosmetic surgery acceptance, ethical concerns about misleading advertisements, unrealistic beauty standards, and patient privacy persist. This underscores the need for strategies to promote healthy body image and informed choices in the digital age.

A Comparative Randomized Clinical Study Assessing the Efficacy of a 1% Selenium Disulfide-Based Shampoo versus 2% Ketoconazole Shampoo in Subjects with Moderate to Severe Scalp Seborrheic Dermatitis

Introduction: Scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SSD) is a chronic, relapsing, and inflammatory condition impacting quality of life (QoL). This study evaluated the efficacy and impact on QoL of a 1% selenium disulphide-containing shampoo (SeS2 shampoo) compared to a 2% ketoconazole shampoo. Methods: This multi-centric, double-blinded, randomized 4-week study was conducted in 64 adult subjects with moderate to severe SSD (SSD severity score (SSSD) > 6). Shampoo was applied on the scalp and hair, according to product indications. Clinical examinations at baseline and on Day (D) 3, 7, 14, and 28 included the assessment of SSSD, total scales score (TSS, sum of adherent, and non-adherent scales), erythema, irritation, seborrhea, and itching. Self-evaluations included QoL and hair quality assessment (scales and greasiness). Results: The SSSD improved in both groups as early as D3, after one application of shampoo. This significant (p < 0.001) improvement was −71% for SeS2 and −69% for ketoconazole at D28. The decrease of the TSS was significant (p < 0.001) at D28 in both groups (−75% SeS2 and −68% for ketoconazole). The SSSD severity of all subjects decreased to mild at D28. Signs and symptoms had significantly (p < 0.001) improved in both groups after 28 days. QoL improved earlier with SeS2 than with ketoconazole shampoo. The cosmetic acceptability of SeS2 shampoo was higher than that of ketoconazole shampoo. Both shampoos were very well tolerated. Conclusion: SeS2 shampoo is a reliable and well-tolerated alternative care to ketoconazole shampoo in patients with moderate to severe scalp seborrheic dermatitis.

A Summarized Review of Formulation, in Vitro Evaluation of Sunscreen

The efficacy and safety of sunscreens are diminished when their agents permeate the skin, resulting in systemic circulation and unidentified negative effects. The filters in sunscreens muster main on the skin's surface with minimal penetration through the dermis in order to preserve their safety and efficacy. Sunscreen should always be worn, even in the event that filters manage get through. Damage like as erythema, the production of free radicals, aging of the skin, and skin cancer brought on by UV radiation. Research is being done to limit skin penetration, assess sun protection factor (SPF), and improve formulation properties and stability in order to target potential negative effects caused by topical absorption of sunscreens. In vitro or in vivo investigations are used in current assays to determine sunscreen penetration since they mimic the physiological conditions of use. This review objectives are to reexamine data on sunscreen skin penetration over the last ten years and identify variables that may increase skin penetration or boost sunscreen efficacy. Sunburn is caused by ultraviolet B radiation, but ultraviolet A may be more damaging to the skin. Sunscreens should ideally block both wavebands. A sunscreen sun protection factor is mostly determined by how well it blocks ultraviolet B. The efficiency of preventing ultraviolet A is not measured. Sunscreens may be organic or inorganic chemicals. If metal oxide sunscreens are made into nanoparticles, their cosmetic acceptance might increase. It doesn’t seem that absorbing organic sunscreens and nanoparticles has any appreciable systemic effects. Frequent use of sunscreen prevents melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and actinic keratosis from developing.

Impact of Gender-Role Attitudes and Mental Health on Hostile Sexism and Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery.

Each year, tens of thousands of people worldwide choose to undergo cosmetic surgery in order to alter their appearance. In recent years, young people have gradually emerged to comprise the main driving force behind the increasing demand for cosmetic surgery. Previous studies have found that sexism may motivate young people to undergo such surgeries. However, few studies have been conducted to determine if this psychological mechanism influences the acceptance of cosmetic surgery among Chinese university students. A total of 579 Chinese university students (280 girls and 299 boys, 17-20 years) volunteered to participate in the online survey. They completed a questionnaire containing the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory, the 12-item General Health Questionnaire, the Gender-Role Attitudes Questionnaire and the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale. We firstly evaluated the underlying factor structure of the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and exploring pattern of associations between the constructs was analyzed via path analysis. According to the findings, hostile sexism was associated with greater levels of acceptance toward cosmetic surgery. Moreover, gender-role attitudes mediated the link between hostile sexism and the acceptance of cosmetic surgery, and this mediation was positively influenced by general mental health. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of Chinese university students' attitudes toward cosmetic surgery, hostile sexism may contribute to normalizing traditional gender stereotypes and encourage cosmetic surgery acceptability among Chinese university students. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis on Janus kinase inhibitors in the management of vitiligo

BackgroundVitiligo is a disease that affects people of all skin shades and can impact their quality of life. Reliable evidence on the effectiveness and adverse events associated with the recent use of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors to treat vitiligo is needed. This protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to collect evidence from both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies to determine the effectiveness and patient-centered outcomes concerning treatment with JAK inhibitors.MethodsWe will conduct a systematic review of the literature for RCTs and observational studies that used upadacitinib, ritlecitinib, brepocitinib, ifidancitinib, cerdulatinib, deglocitinib, baricitinib, tofacitinib, and ruxolitinib JAK inhibitors as treatments for vitiligo compared to placebo, no treatment, or combination therapies. We will systematically search from inception in Epistemonikos, MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, PsycINFO, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Web of Science Core Collection, relevant preprint servers, and the gray literature. Ethics approval was not sought as the protocol and systematic review will not involve human participants, but rather summarized and anonymous data from studies. Primary outcomes include quality of life, percentage repigmentation, decreased vitiligo within 1 year or more, lasting repigmentation after a 2-year follow-up, cosmetic acceptability of repigmentation and tolerability or burden of treatment, and adverse events. Secondary outcomes are patient and study characteristics. We will include full-text articles, preprints, and clinical trial data in any language and all geographic regions. For data sources unavailable in English, we will obtain translations from global collaborators via the Cochrane Engage network. We will exclude articles for which sufficient information cannot be obtained from the authors of articles and systematic reviews. At least two investigators will independently assess articles for inclusion and extract data; reliability will be assessed before subsequent selection and data extraction of remaining studies. The risk of bias and certainty of evidence with Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation guidelines will be assessed independently by at least two investigators. We will estimate treatment effects by random-effects meta-analyses and assess heterogeneity using I2. Data that cannot be included in the meta-analysis will be reported narratively using themes.DiscussionThe proposed systematic review and meta-analysis describe the methods for summarizing and synthesizing the evidence on the effectiveness and patient-centered outcomes concerning the treatment of vitiligo with JAK inhibitors that were recently approved for this indication. To disseminate further the results of our systematic review, we plan to present them at international conferences and meetings. Our findings will provide robust evidence to facilitate decision-making at the policy or practitioner level.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42023383920.

Greater Risk Taking in Cosmetic Surgery Acceptance and History: An Experimental and Computational Study

Cosmetic surgery is ever more affordable and accessible, but carries physical and psychological risks. Yet, no study to date has directly examined risk-taking behaviour under controlled conditions, beyond self-report and in relation to cosmetic surgery attitudes. We used the Balloon Analogue Risk Task and advanced computational modelling to measure decision-making behaviour and identify the latent parameters driving behaviour associated with cosmetic surgery attitudes in women with no cosmetic surgery history (N = 265) and a subsample of women with a cosmetic surgery history (N = 24). Risk taking was higher in women with greater acceptance and history of cosmetic surgery. Computational modelling revealed increased risk taking in women with greater acceptance of cosmetic surgery when decisions were made with greater knowledge of loss (risk) and not when the likelihood of loss was unknown (uncertainty). When women with greater acceptance of cosmetic surgery made decisions, they also placed less emphasis on possible losses (reduced loss aversion). Our findings suggest that women seeking cosmetic procedures may be less sensitive to losses and thus make more risky decisions. Greater emphasis should be placed on communicating potential losses rather than just the associated risks to women considering cosmetic procedures.No Level Assigned This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Acceptance of Surgical and Non-surgical Cosmetic Procedures: A Cross-Sectional Study From Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Background and objective Cosmetic surgery is a field that primarily focuses on the preservation, rebuilding, or improvement of the physical appearance of an individual through surgical and therapeutic methods. This specialization encompasses various interventions, both surgical, such as blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentation, and non-surgical, including procedures such as chemical peeling, Botox injections, and dermal fillers. This study aims to assess the acceptance of cosmetic surgeries and non-surgical cosmetic procedures and the reasons for non-acceptance in a population from Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Methods This cross-sectional survey study was conducted in the general population of Jazan, Saudi Arabia, between July and August 2023. An online self-administered questionnaire was created using Google Forms and distributed through social media. The acceptance was measured using the Arabic translation of the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS). Results The mean cosmetic surgery acceptance score was 62.1 ± 25.9, whereas the mean non-surgical procedure acceptance score was 63.7 ± 24.5. Engaged and widowed participants had a higher mean acceptance score for cosmetic surgery, whereas divorced participants had a higher mean acceptance score for non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Higher age was associated with higher acceptance of cosmetic surgery (95% CI: 1-15), while having higher income was associated with lower acceptance (95% CI: -14 to -0.32). A higher level of parental education was associated with lower acceptance of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures (95% CI: -23 to -3.5). The perceived lack of a need for cosmetic procedures was the most commonly cited reason for not accepting these procedures, while religious beliefs were the second most common reason. Conclusion Non-surgical cosmetic procedures generally had higher acceptance than cosmetic surgeries. Age, sex, marital status, income level, familial influence, and prior experience all played significant roles in shaping these attitudes. The perceived lack of a need for the procedures and religious beliefs were common reasons for not accepting cosmetic procedures.

The Role of Supraclavicular Flap in Reconstruction Following Resection in Buccal Mucosa Carcinoma.

Buccal mucosa is one of the common subsite for oral carcinoma. Following excision of the buccal mucosa tumor mass various pedicled and free flaps have been used to reconstruct the oral cavity defect. In this age of free flaps various locoregional pedicled flaps have been underrated and overlooked and supraclavicular flap is one of them. This flap meets the functional and cosmetic acceptance of the buccal mucosa defect reconstruction with minimal morbidity to the donor site. This paper presents author's experience of using supraclavicular flap in 10 patients of carcinoma buccal mucosa. In all cases surgical defect was completely covered by the flap, there was no necrosis of the flap. Functional and cosmetic outcome was acceptable in all the patients without compromising oncological clearance.

Daily use of a bakuchiol and squalane-containing face serum impacts skin esthetics

Objectives: The objective is to determine the impact of an oil-based face serum containing bakuchiol and squalane in improving skin esthetics such as texture and tone upon daily use. Material and Methods: A non-comparative, single-arm study on 50 females (aged 18–50 years) with Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV was conducted for four weeks. The impact of the formulation on skin-related parameters was determined by instrumental analysis and dermatologist evaluation. Cosmetic acceptability and safety of the preparation were recorded through self-evaluation questionnaires. Results: The formulation was safe and well tolerated throughout the study duration. A significant reduction in the appearance of age/dark spots (ITA°), Δ ITA° = 38.28% compared to baseline, was observed in two weeks. Up to 11.9% improvement in skin elasticity was noted in four weeks of usage. The continuous once-a-day application also helped in reducing the transepidermal water loss throughout the study. Conclusion: Regular use of facial oil serum can help improve skin texture and tone.

Combination of Sodium Hyaluronate, Withania Somnifera Extract and Niacinamide Improves Hydration and Skin Tone – A Clinical Study

Background: Multiple moisturizing solutions with sodium hyaluronate, Withania sominifera, and niacinamide are commercially popular. Detailed clinical studies portraying their activity are not available. Objective: This study aims to study the clinical efficacy of a phyto-bioactive cream in improving skin hydration and tone with 4 weeks of continuous usage. Methodology: We conducted a non-comparative, single-blind study on 50 Asian female volunteers with Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV for 28 days. Cosmetic acceptability and safety of the product were established via self-evaluation questionnaires. The ability of the topical formulation in maintaining skin tone, hydration, and firmness was determined by instrumental analysis and smoothness by dermatologist evaluation. Results: A total of 46 subjects completed the study. High levels of skin hydration were noted instantaneously (+61.11%) and post continuous use of the product. Significant reduction in the appearance of age/dark spots (ITA°), Δ ITA°= 37.49% and increase in skin lightness (L) by 2.66% compared to baseline was observed in 4 weeks. More than 80% of the subjects reported an increase in skin firmness and smoothness in 4 weeks of twice-a-day product usage. Conclusion: Our study establishes the safety and acceptability of the phyto-bioactive cream. The efficiency of the combination of Withania somnifera extract, sodium hyaluronate, and niacinamide in improving skin hydration and tone has been proven.

Calcipotriol and Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream Based on PAD Technology for the Treatment of Plaque Psoriasis: A Narrative Review.

Topical treatment plays a crucial role in psoriasis management, with non-adherence being a major barrier to treatment success. The fixed-dose combination of calcipotriol (CAL) and betamethasone dipropionate (BDP) represents the first-line choice in topical psoriasis treatment. A CAL/BDP cream based on polyaphron dispersion (PAD) Technology has emerged as a novel formulation for a more convenient topical treatment of psoriasis. This article aims to summarize the most relevant published evidence about CAL/BDP PAD-cream and its underlying PAD Technology. The PAD Technology enables CAL and BDP stability in an aqueous cream through a multimolecular shell structure, as well as it increases the penetration of both active ingredients into the epidermis and dermis. This technology also demonstrated to increase the cosmetic acceptability and to provide the desirable sensory properties for a topical psoriasis treatment. Two phase III clinical trials have been conducted so far with CAL/BDP PAD-cream. Findings from both trials revealed high efficacy with a fast onset of action, a favourable safety and tolerability profile and convenience for CAL/BDP PAD-cream compared to CAL/BDP gel. In the trial including patients with psoriasis affecting the scalp (MC2-01-C7), results support the use of CAL/BDP PAD-cream in scalp psoriasis. An anchored matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) was conducted to compare CAL/BDP PAD-cream and CAL/BDP foam, as both products had been previously compared to CAL/BDP gel. CAL/BDP PAD-cream and CAL/BDP foam showed equivalent efficacy and quality of life at their recommended treatment duration, whereas greater treatment satisfaction for CAL/BDP PAD-cream was found after one week of treatment. Overall, the high patient acceptability and treatment satisfaction observed with CAL/BDP PAD-cream in clinical trials may lead to improved adherence and hence higher efficacy in clinical practice.

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Bioadhesive Hydrogels for Topical Application and Sustained Drug Release: The Effect of Polyvinylpyrrolidone on the Physicomechanical Properties of Hydrogel.

Hydrogels are homogeneous three-dimensional polymeric networks capable of holding large amounts of water and are widely used in topical formulations. Herein, the physicomechanical, rheological, bioadhesive, and drug-release properties of hydrogels containing hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were examined, and the intermolecular interactions between the polymers were explored. A three-level factorial design was used to form HPMC-PVP binary hydrogels. The physicomechanical properties of the binary hydrogels alongside the homopolymeric HPMC hydrogels were characterized using a texture analyzer. Rheological properties of the gels were studied using a cone and plate rheometer. The bioadhesiveness of selected binary hydrogels was tested on porcine skin. Hydrophilic benzophenone-4 was loaded into both homopolymeric and binary gels, and drug-release profiles were investigated over 24 h at 33 °C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to understand the inter-molecular drug-gel interactions. Factorial design analysis supported the dominant role of the HPMC in determining the gel properties, rather than the PVP, with the effect of both polymer concentrations being non-linear. The addition of PVP to the HPMC gels improved adhesiveness without significantly affecting other properties such as hardness, shear-thinning feature, and viscosity, thereby improving bioadhesiveness for sustained skin retention without negatively impacting cosmetic acceptability or ease of use. The release of benzophenone-4 in the HPMC hydrogels followed zero-order kinetics, with benzophenone-4 release being significantly retarded by the presence of PVP, likely due to intermolecular interactions between the drug and the PVP polymer, as confirmed by the FTIR. The HPMC-PVP binary hydrogels demonstrate strong bioadhesiveness resulting from the addition of PVP with desirable shear-thinning properties that allow the formulation to have extended skin-retention times. The developed HPMC-PVP binary hydrogel is a promising sustained-release platform for topical drug delivery.

A multicentric, prospective, observational study evaluating the practice pattern and use of fixed dose topical regimen for hyperpigmentation in intimate and high friction areas

Background: Hyperpigmentation is the third most common dermatological disorder and has major psychosocial impairment. It comes in a variety of forms. The most well-known are age spots, freckles, melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation in friction-prone areas (armpits, inner thighs, elbows, knees, groin, etc.) has a significant impact on affected individuals. Unfortunately, there are currently no well-tolerated options available that are intended particularly for these sensitive areas. Methods: Dermatologists across India were provided a questionnaire consisting of questions related to number of the patients seen with hyperpigmentation in intimate &amp; high friction areas every week and their clinical experience regarding the use of Pigmentbio Sensitive areas containing active ingredients (Andrographolide+Glabridin+Lysine azelate+Laminaria ochroleuca extract). The results were analyzed using a visual analogue scale. Results: The study included a total of 1402 patients, and 75 dermatologists provided complete responses. The majority (96%) of the dermatologists recommended Pigmentbio Sensitive areas for intimate &amp; high friction areas. These dermatologists also rated tolerability and safety of Pigmentbio Sensitive areas as "excellent" to "good" based on various criteria. These included tolerability after waxing and shaving the bikini line, soothing effect after mechanical erythema from taking off tight clothing, hydrating power when compared to other products, cosmetic acceptability for frictional and intimate areas, and safety on intimate areas. Conclusions: This study findings indicated that Pigmentbio Sensitive areas is a preferred formulation by dermatologists across India for the management of hyperpigmentation in intimate &amp; high friction areas with proven tolerability and safety.

Real-World Effectiveness, Safety, and Tolerability of Cetosomal Minoxidil 5% Alone and a Fixed Drug Combination of Cetosomal Minoxidil 5% With Finasteride 0.1% in the Management of Androgenetic Alopecia (Inbilt Study).

Introduction Topical minoxidil 5% is a widely used medication in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) but is usually associated with adverse events (AE) such as scalp irritation, dryness, and itching. This prompted the development of nonalcoholic solutions, and cetosomal minoxidil was the most recent one. Methods Retrospective multicenter data analysis was conducted at 66 centers across India for adult AGA patients. Patients treated with either cetosomal minoxidil 5% alone (Group I) or a fixed drug combination of cetosomal minoxidil 5% and finasteride 0.1% (Group II) were analyzed for the effectiveness and safety of either formulation. The Physician Global Assessment (PGA) and Patient Global Assessment (PtGA) were used to assess each treatment's effectiveness. Safety was reported by records of AE and a product tolerability assessment with subjective cosmetic acceptability as recorded by physicians. Results Of the 261 patients, 132 were in Group I, and 129 were in Group II. At 16 weeks, in PGA, mild to moderate improvement was noted in 48% and 32% of patients in Groups I and II, respectively, whereas significant to excellent improvement was seen in 52% and 68% of patients in Groups I and II, respectively. Similar results were noted for PtGA. In Group I, 64% of patients rated the product's tolerability as excellent, and 69% reported the same in Group II. Meanwhile, 64% of patients in Group I and 74% in Group II rated the product as excellent in subjective cosmetic acceptability. Conclusions From real-world analysis, cetosomal-based minoxidil solutions were found to be effective and tolerable in AGA and could serve as therapeutic alternatives to alcoholic formulations for AGA management.

Sensory properties analysis of a calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate cream vehicle formulated with an innovative PAD Technology for the treatment of plaque psoriasis on the skin and scalp.

In psoriasis, poor treatment adherence is frequently related to low efficacy and limited cosmetic acceptability from the patients' perspective. This study aimed to characterize the sensorial attributes of a calcipotriol (CAL) and betamethasone dipropionate (BDP)-cream vehicle based on polyaphron dispersion (PAD) Technology and to compare them with the conventional ointment and oleogel formulations for psoriasis. A panel of 16 experts assessed sensory properties at four different stages: appearance, pick up, rub out and afterfeel. Descriptive sensory analysis was used to evaluate relevant attributes. Each attribute was rated on a line scale (range 0-100%). Active ingredients were not used because panellists were healthy volunteers, and vehicle formulations needed to be used instead. CAL/BDP PAD-cream vehicle was evaluated as having a low stickiness, low grease behaviour, good wetness, and good spreadability. Ointment showed the least desirable behaviour regarding these properties. Moreover, once CAL/BDP PAD-cream vehicle was absorbed, the gloss disappeared quickly, leaving low stickiness and a low amount of residue. This afterfeel behaviour was not observed with ointment. The oleogel formulation had good sensory properties, similar to CAL/BDP PAD-cream vehicle, but with lower integrity of shape, lower wetness and higher greasiness. Overall, CAL/BDP PAD-cream vehicle has the desirable requirements for a topical product for the treatment of psoriasis, with better sensory properties than ointment and easier manipulation than oleogel, which may lead to greater acceptance and adherence.

A Topical Scalp Serum Containing Adenosine, MgSO4, Vitamin CG, and Pre‐ and Probiotic Fractions Reduces Discomfort and Associated Symptoms of Sensitive Scalp

Purpose. Sensitive scalp (SScalp) is characterized by abnormal and nociceptive sensations, such as stinging and itching, that lead to scalp discomfort. This study assessed the benefit of a once‐daily serum containing Adenosine, Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO4), Vitamin C Glucoside (CG), and pre‐ and probiotic fractions in subjects with SScalp. Methods. An open‐label, single center study in adult subjects with a Global Scalp Discomfort (GSD) score of ≥8 (0–27), defined as the sum of individual symptom scores (0–9) for itching, stinging, and warming sensations. The frequency of scratching was self‐declared. Evaluations were performed immediately after the 1st application (D0Timm) and at D21, during which the cosmetic acceptability was additionally assessed. Transepidermal water loss and skin hydration were assessed at baseline, D21, and D28. Squalene (SQ) and SQOOH were analyzed at D0T0, D21T0, and D28. Tolerance was assessed throughout the study. Results. 42 subjects (30 women and 12 men) participated in this study. The mean age was 44.0 ± 13.0 years. At baseline, the mean GSD was 13.9 ± 3.28. The GSD and symptoms significantly (p &lt; 0.0001) improved at D0Timm and lasted until the end of the study (D28), with insignificant worsening. There was a significant reduction of SQOOH at D21 and D28. Subject satisfaction was high, associated with a good tolerance. A similar and significant (p &lt; 0.0001) improvement was observed for subjects with more severe symptoms and a GSD score ≥14 at baseline. Conclusion. The topical serum significantly reduces SScalp, global discomfort, and oxidative stress and is beneficial in the management of sensitive scalp. This TRIAL is registered with NCT05630027.

Exploring the impact of psychological factors on cosmetic surgery acceptance: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundClient perspectives on cosmetic surgery are often shaped by a combination of social norms, personal experiences, cultural beliefs, media exposure, and individual values. This study aimed to explore and understand the attitudes, beliefs, and motivations of individuals who seek or are considering cosmetic surgery and to identify the factors that influence their decision-making. MethodsA questionnaire was given to all patients at the plastic surgery clinics, and the results were analyzed using the likelihood of having cosmetic surgery scale, the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, the life happiness scale, and the physical attractiveness scale. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used for the investigation of correlations, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was determined to be reliable. ResultsThe mean age of participants was found to be 33.9 years, with 40.8% male and 59.2% female. The results of the study indicate that there is a statistically significant correlation (r = 0.25) between the likelihood of having cosmetic surgery and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale. Additionally, there is a statistically significant correlation (r = 0.27) between the likelihood of having cosmetic surgery and the life happiness scale. Lastly, there is a statistically significant correlation (r = 0.39) between the likelihood of having cosmetic surgery and the physical attractiveness scale. ConclusionThese results suggest that a person's self-esteem, happiness, and level of physical attractiveness may play a role in their decision to pursue cosmetic surgery.

Impacts of video communication on psychological well-being and cosmetic surgery acceptance

Video communication via platforms such as Zoom has been routinely used as a communication tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scientific evidence has suggested that constant video communication can have detrimental consequences such as “Zoom fatigue”, inhibiting collaboration, and new information exchange. The current study focuses on the effects of using video communication technology on self-esteem, affect, and image perception under the framework of objective self-awareness (OSA). We implemented a survey among a large sample of video communication users. The results revealed a nuanced picture of OSA with video communication: merely seeing self-video and the time of using video communication won't activate OSA. However, being a listener and a part of the audience in video communication activated OSA. In turn, OSA significantly increased the attention paid to oneself, leading to critical self-evaluation, negative affect, and a greater level of cosmetic surgery acceptance. Moreover, OSA reduced the level of self-esteem. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.