Skin Cream Research Articles

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum burmannii) Bark Essential Oil as Raw Material for Skin Cream and Anti-Bacterial

Research has been carried out to identify the essential oil components of cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum burmannii) which will be used in the manufacture of face creams and to test its inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Cinnamon bark essential oil was separated by steam distillation method. The essential oils obtained were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and infrared spectra. The GC-MS chromatogram of cinnamon bark essential oil yielded 3 peaks. The compound that has the largest retention time and concentration is 1,3 octadien-3-ol (linalool). Analysis of absorption data in the infrared spectrum resulted in 3 specific bonds, namely C=O (aldehyde), C=C (aliphatic), and C=N (imin) groups. The results of the formulation and characteristic test of cinnamon bark essential oil cream, all formulations met the National Standard, namely pH 7, adhesion 28.61 seconds, spreadability of 6.1 cm. Inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus was tested using the diffusion method. The greatest inhibitory power was found at a concentration of 15% with a clear zone formed of 2.15 mm.

Once-Daily Abrocitinib for the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis in Adults and Adolescents Aged 12 Years and Over: A Short Review of Current Clinical Perspectives.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with high prevalence and a complex pathophysiology. This relapsing and remitting skin disorder has many negative consequences on the patient’s quality of life and that of his family. Until now, moderate-to-severe AD treatment was a symptomatic one, using skin emollients, topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, antihistamines and systemic drugs – immune suppressants and other systemic treatments (dupilumab). Starting from 2021, abrocitinib, a Janus kinase-1 inhibitor, was approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe cases of AD in Europe, in adults. Multiple phase three studies (JADE MONO-1 [NCT03349060]; JADE MONO-2 [NCT03575871]; JADE TEEN [NCT03796676]; JADE COMPARE; GOODERHAM; JADE EXTEND) have yielded positive results in adults and adolescents suffering from this disease, with efficacy, a good tolerance, safe profile, and with generally mild side effects. The positive results were obtained even starting from the first stages of the oral drug administration. The low frequency of side effects and the advantage of having an orally administered medication makes abrocitinib an important additional tool for the treatment of moderate-to-severe forms of AD.

47 Successful Prevention of Secondary Burn Progressions Using Topical Tacrolimus and Infliximab Hydrogel

IntroductionThe pathophysiology of partial- to full-thickness burn wound conversion remains poorly understood. Recent studies have demonstrated that an altered inflammatory response may play be implicated in this secondary conversion to deeper wounds. Therefore, reduction in early inflammation may decrease burn severity and morbidity.Specifically, TNF-ɑ has been shown to detrimentally affect the healing process after injury through a variety of mechanisms. We hypothesized that microcapillary alginate hydrogel loaded with immunosuppressive medications applied to partial-thickness burns would reduce inflammation and prevent further progression to full-thickness burns.The purpose of this study was to determine whether topical application of infliximab or tacrolimus could decrease burn wound depth.MethodsAssembly of the microfluidic hydrogels was achieved by embedding microfibers within a hydrogel scaffold composed of an alginate blend. The treatment cohorts received either (1) infliximab loaded hydrogel or (2) tacrolimus skin ointment covered by hydrogel. The control cohort only received an occlusive dressing.There were 12 young (2-4 months) and 12 old ( >16 months) mice, which were separated into treatment and control cohorts. All mice were anesthetized and given partial thickness burns by a validated scalding protocol. Mice were euthanized on post-burn day 3, and skin samples were taken. Burn depth was evaluated using Vimentin immunostaining.ResultsIn young mice, infliximab hydrogel (p=.002) and tacrolimus hydrogel (p=.002) significantly decreased burn depth compared to controls. In old mice, infliximab hydrogel (p=.005) and tacrolimus hydrogel (p< .001) significantly decreased burn depth compared to controls.In young mice, infliximab and tacrolimus were similarly efficacious (p > .05). In old mice, tacrolimus significantly decreased burn depth compared to infliximab (p=.002).In controls, old mice had deeper burn wound progression than young mice (p< .001). Similarly, in those treated with infliximab, old mice had deeper burn wound progression than young mice (p=.002). Interestingly, tacrolimus was able to decrease burn wound depth in old mice such that their burn wound thickness was similar to young mice (p >.05).ConclusionsApplication of a novel microcapillary alginate hydrogel infused with infliximab or topical tacrolimus reduced partial- to full-thickness burn wound conversion in mice. Application of immunosuppressive dressings may be a promising avenue for further clinical investigation to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with burn injuries.

Formulating Cream of Dumbo Catfish Skin Extract (Clarias Gariepinus) for Acceleration of Slice Wound Healing in White Male Rats (Rattus Novergicus) Wistar Straight

&#x0D; Wound is a condition in which the skin tissue is damaged and some of the skin tissue is lost. Catfish skin is one part that contains collagen.One of the ingredients that has been widely used to maintain a moist atmosphere in wounds is collagen This study aimed to determine the effect of African catfish skin extract cream to determine the effectiveness of collagen from catfish skin extract in accelerating the healing process of cuts in male white rats.&#x0D; The method in this research is experimental laboratory using one sample t-test test data analysis to see the effect of the catfish skin extract cream formula. The research design used was a post test only control group. The experimental group was treated by giving the catfish skin extract cream formula, while the negative control group was not given any treatment. Each cream formula has three concentrations, namely 5%, 7.5% and 12.5% ​​and cream base as a negative control.&#x0D; The results showed that the cream formulation with a concentration of 12.5% ​​had an effect on wound healing on the seventh day, this was seen from physical observation by looking at the changes in the length of the wound which was reduced and the wound had dried. African catfish skin cream has an effect on wound healing with a healing process within 7 days The effectiveness of African catfish skin cream at a concentration of 12.5% ​​has a faster effect on wound healing compared to the 7.5% and 5% formulas

Wound Healing Potential/Activity of Polyherbal Ointment Containing Salvadora persica, Azadirachta indica and Calendula officinalis Extracts: An Experimental Study

The present study explore the wound healing potential of a novel herbal ointment formulation, fast wound healing ointment (FWHO) composed of 10% w/w crude ethanolic extracts of Salvadora persica (sticks), Azadirachta indica (leaves) and Calendula officinalis (whole plant) on excision wound model in albino rats. The FWHO was applied topically once daily on the wound to evaluate the rate of contraction and period of epithelialization in rats. Complete contraction and epithelialization of wound was observed at 19 day (P&lt;0.0005) in test group animals compared with standard (polyfax skin ointment) at 23 day (P&lt;0.0005) and control group (blank petroleum jelly) at 29 day respectively. It was observed that 10% FWHO has potent wound healing capability as evidenced by decrease in the period of epithelialization and increase in the rate of wound contraction in test group as compared to the standard and control groups. The test group illustrates 34.4%, while the standard group shows 20.6% decrease in the time of epithelialization as compare to control group. The study revealed that test ointment (10% FWHO) has a potential to promote wound healing by accelerating the rate of epithelialization and scar formation as compare to standard (polyfax skin ointment) and control (blank petroleum jelly) groups.

Stability and Formulation of Erlotinib in Skin Creams.

Recent studies have highlighted the benefit of repurposing oral erlotinib (ERL) treatment in some rare skin diseases such as Olmsted syndrome. The use of a topical ERL skin treatment instead of the currently available ERL tablets may be appealing to treat skin disorders while reducing adverse systemic effects and exposure. A method to prepare 0.2% ERL cream, without resorting to a pure active pharmaceutical ingredient, was developed and the formulation was optimized to improve ERL stability over time. Erlotinib extraction from tablets was incomplete with Transcutol, whereas dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) allowed 100% erlotinib recovery. During preliminary studies, ERL was shown to be sensitive to oxidation and acidic pH in solution and when added to selected creams (i.e., Excipial, Nourivan Antiox, Pentravan, and Versatile). The results also showed that use of DMSO (5% v/w), neutral pH, as well as a topical agent containing antioxidant substances (Nourivan Antiox) were key factors to maintain the initial erlotinib concentration. The proposed ERL cream formulation at neutral pH contains a homogeneous amount of ERL and is stable for at least 42 days at room temperature in Nourivan cream with antioxidant properties.

Tactile friction and rheological studies to objectify sensory properties of topical formulations

The aim of the work was to identify the physical parameters relevant to different perceptual attributes by comparing a range of commercial skin creams with various compositions. We investigated the possibility of predicting sensory properties using rheological and tribological methods. Rheological evaluations of the skin creams were carried out using continuous shear, creep, creep recovery, rheodestruction and recovery measurements, oscillatory strain sweep measurements [small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) and large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS)], and frequency sweep measurements. Friction measurements were performed on the nonbiological skin model to investigate how surface properties are influenced by the application of different topical formulations. Furthermore, the formulations were characterized by a broad range of instrumental texture measurements. In vivo sensory analysis based on the spectrum descriptive analysis method was performed to discriminate the skin creams during pickup, rub out, and after feel. Using principal component analysis meaningful correlation relating rheotribological properties and sensory attributes during the entire process of product application was carried out. Rheological parameters deduced from the nonlinear regime were found to be important parameters affecting the frictional response of skin creams. In addition, friction data were correlated with slipperiness and stickiness—subjective attributes used for the sensory evaluation of after feel. Furthermore, a number of key textural parameters and sensorial data showed good correlation with results obtained from linear and nonlinear rheological measurement, indicating rheological analysis can be sufficiently used as a precise and valid tool for sensorial mapping of topical formulations. Our study further suggests that objective evaluation based on the flow curve, oscillatory strain sweep (SAOS and LAOS), and friction measurements can be used for sensorial screening of large number of prototype formulations, which otherwise may be time consuming and costly using a sensory panel.

EMULGEL EMERGENT SYSTEMS: AT A GLANCE FOR TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY

Emulgels have been emerged both in cosmetics and pharmaceutical preparations. When gel and emulsion are used in the combined form, they are referred to as Emulgel. Emulgel is a promising drug delivery system for the delivery of hydrophobic drugs. Emulgel is an emulsion that is gelled by mixing it with gelling agents. Many advantages of gels have the major limitation of delivery of hydrophobic drugs. Hence, the emulsion-based approach is being used to overcome this limitation. Emulgel is an interesting topical drug delivery system as it has a dual release control system, i.e., gel and emulsion. The use of gels and emulsions as combined dosage form results in the formation of emulgel showing dual release. With this approach, polymers with enhanced effect in release patterns have emerged, providing sustained and controlled release. They are generally applied for antiseptics, antifungal agents, skin emollients, and protectants. The activity of topical preparation confides in various factors such as drug solubility, lipophilicity, contact time to the skin, and permeability. Emulgels have numerous advantages in dermatology, such as being thixotropic, greaseless, easily spreadable, easily removable, emollient, nonstaining, long shelf life, bio-friendly, transparent and pleasing appearance. Emulgel is being used to deliver analgesics, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, anti-acne drugs, and various cosmetic formulations with a wide range to explore.

Effects of Salicornia-Based Skin Cream Application on Healthy Humans' Experimental Model of Pain and Itching.

Halophyte plants are salt-tolerant and are acclimated for growth in saline soils such as along coastal areas. Among the halophytes, the Salicornia species have been used as both folk medicine and functional food for many years due to their high levels of bioactive compounds with supposed anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects. However, the properties of Salicornia bioactive extracts on pain and itching still remain unclear. In this study, 30 healthy volunteers were randomized to treatments with 10% Salicornia-based cream or placebo cream for 24 or 48 h. On day 0, and 24 or 48 h post cream application, cold/heat detection and pain thresholds, mechanical pain thresholds and sensitivity, trans-epidermal water loss, histamine- and cowhage-evoked itch, and micro-vascular reactivity (neurogenic inflammation) were assessed to evaluate the analgesic, anti-pruritogenic and vasomotor effects. Skin permeability was reduced in the Salicornia-treated area for 48 h compared with 24 h application (p-value < 0.05). After 48 h of application, a decrease in mechanical-evoked itching (hyperkinesis) compared with 24 h treatment (p-value < 0.05) and increased warm detection and heat pain thresholds (p-value < 0.05) was found. Histamine-induced neurogenic inflammation showed a significant reduction in the cream-treated areas after 48 h compared with 24 h (p-value < 0.05). The results of this study indicate the overall inhibitory effect of Salicornia on hyperkinesis (mechanically evoked itch), the analgesic effect on thermal sensation, and modulation of the skin barrier architecture. Further studies are needed for the assessment of the long-term effects.

Selective Spectrofluorimetric Protocol for Determination of Commonly Used Gram-negative Bactericidal Drug in Combined Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Human Plasma.

Gram-negative bacteria cause infections such as skin infection, meningitis, and pneumonia in human being. Gram-negative bacteria are highly resistant to most availaible bactericidal drugs. One of the most commonly used Gram-negative bactericidal drug is Polymyxin B sulfate (PMS). In addition, it is used in cases of highly resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections. The widespread of PMS necessitate the development of an exceedingly sensitive and selective fluorimetric assay for its determination in pure form, different pharmaceutical dosage forms, and human plasma. The presented method is used to determine PMS in their dosage form (vials) and combined pharmaceutical formulations (skin and eye ointments) with a high degree of accuracy and selectivity. The described procedure relies on the structure of a derivative of a high degree of fluorescence called dihydropyridine, via the condensation of the amino moiety of PMS with two equivalents of acetylacetone in the presence of formaldehyde and Teorell buffer (pH = 3). The fluorescent product was measured at 471nm (λex = 402nm). The linearity ranged from 100-3000 ng mL-1 of PMS with an excellent r2 of 0.9998. LOD and LOQ were 27.16ngmL-1 and 82.30ngmL-1, respectively. Owing to the developed method's high selectivity, it was successfully utilized for assay of PMS, in the ointment, in the presence of oxytetracycline as an active ingredient. Furthermore, the procedure applied for the estimation of parenteral PMS in human plasma with very good mean recovery 97.42 ± 1.46.

Skin damage induced by zinc oxide nanoparticles combined with UVB is mediated by activating cell pyroptosis via the NLRP3 inflammasome\u2013autophagy\u2013exosomal pathway

BackgroundZinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are widely used nanomaterial in personal cosmetics, such as skin creams and sunscreens, due to their whitening properties and strong UV light absorption. However, the safety issues and the hazards of ZnONPs, which can be taken up by the skin and cause skin toxicity, are still unclear. From a chemoprevention point of view, pterostilbene (PT) has been reported to prevent skin damage effectively by its anti-inflammatory and autophagy inducer effect. This study aims to determine the skin toxicity and the potential mechanisms of UVB and ZnONPs exposure and the preventive effect of PT.ResultsThe co-exposure of UVB and ZnONPs elicit NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in keratinocytes. Furthermore, exposure to both UVB and ZnONPs also disrupts cellular autophagy, which increases cell exosome release. In vivo UVB and ZnONPs exposure triggers skin toxicity, as indicated by increased histological injury, skin thickness and transepidermal water loss. Notably, the NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis are also activated during exposure. Topical application of pterostilbene attenuates NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis by decreasing ROS generation and mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) levels. In addition to its antioxidant effect, PT also reversed autophagy abnormalities by restoring normal autophagic flux and decreasing NLRP3 inflammasome-loaded exosome release.ConclusionsOur findings reveal that ZnONPs induce skin damage in conjunction with UVB exposure. This process involves an interplay of inflammasomes, pyroptosis, autophagy dysfunction, and exosomes in skin toxicity. PT alleviates skin inflammation by regulating the inflammasome–autophagy–exosome pathway, a finding which could prove valuable when further evaluating ZnONPs effects for cosmetic applications.

Implications of a Diabetic Foot Xerosis Treatment With an Emulsion Containing the Plant-Based Anionic Phospholipids.

Purpose:This study compares and contrasts a skin cream containing plant-based anionic polar phospholipid (APP) technology with a mineral oil hydrocarbon (petrolatum)-based (MHB) skin cream technology in the treatment of skin xerosis (dryness) in diabetic feet. Skin cream with APP technology promotes phospholipid absorption, reparation of intercellular lamellae, and organization of water promoting hydration; whereas skin cream with mineral hydrocarbon-based (MHB) technology principally covers skin, preventing dehydration.Methods:Subjects (n = 54) with diagnoses of diabetes mellitus and foot skin dryness were studied using a multicenter, double-blind, masked-study design. An emulsion cream containing 0.05% APP in triglycerides (APP preparation) was compared to MHB skin cream, Eucerin® (MHB preparation) applied topically to skin of the feet. Graded measurements were recorded on 4 efficacy variables including dryness, erythema, fissures, and itching and neurovascular assessments. Implications of the plant-based and mineral-based skin creams in the context of skin xerosis are contrasted.Results:APP and MHB preparations were similar in effectiveness and safety. There was no significant difference among any of the 4 efficacy variables (P < .5) including neurovascular measurements. The APP preparation is absorbed into the skin, whereas the MHB skin cream leaves detectable residues after each application.Conclusion:Although the APP and MHB preparations were not significantly different in effectiveness and safety, distinctively, application of the APP skin cream preparation absorbed into the skin leaving no discernible residue in contrast to the MHB preparation leaving residues potentiating textile damage. Both of these technologies function in the hydration of skin; however, they differ in their modes of action. The plant-based APP preparation functions actively by phospholipid and triglyceride absorption, reparation of skin lamellae, and in the consequent delivery and organization of waters of hydration in skin. The MHB preparation functions passively, hydrating the skin it covers by sealing the skin against dehydration.

LIBERAÇÃO LENTA DO ÓLEO DE COPAÍBA ADSOLUBILIZADO EM HIDRÓXIDOS DUPLOS LAMELARES: UM MATERIAL PROMISSOR PARA POMADAS CUTÂNEAS

SLOW-RELEASE OF COPAIBA OIL ADSOLUBILIZED INTO LAYERED DOUBLE HYDROXIDES: A PROMISING MATERIAL FOR SKIN OINTMENTS. In this work, Zn/Al layered double hydroxides intercalated with dodecyl sulfate ion (DS) in molar ratios (Zn2+/Al3+) 2:1, 3:1 and 4:1 were synthesized by co-precipitation method and then they were adsolubilized with essential oil of copaiba in the concentrations of 3, 5, 10, 13 and 15% wt/wt to be used as carriers in therapeutic ointments for skin injury treatments. The XRD results showed a diffraction pattern corresponding to the structure of LDHs with the presence of diffraction peaks referring to the basal reflection planes. Typical stretching and vibration bands of copaiba essential oil in FTIR spectra confirmed the adsolubilization process. The oil release plateau in the ointment was above 80% at normalized values in a time of approximately 20 h, the time required for dissolution and release of molecules adsorbed in the layered structure of the material for molar ratios 2:1 and 3:1 and the release of the solubilized molecules in the interlayer space. In contrast, LDH with a 4:1 molar ratio showed slower release and did not reach the plateau in 48 h, as this material has the ability to retain oil molecules in the LDH for longer, causing a slower release in relation to other molar ratios. The analysis for the non-intercalated copaiba oil showed a gradual increase in the concentration of the oil in the ointment, indicating a different curve profile.

Cytokine storm interference

Viral infections are a natural and inevitable part of life. In healthy individuals, mortality increases when the body’s innate immune system quickly activates, creating a cytokine storm. A rapid and excessive release of cytokines into the bloodstream can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome and death. This communication proposes inhibiting cytokine storm development through forced atopy. Hyper-allergenic skin cream therapy stimulates adaptive immunity to support innate immunity before acute infection.

Potential of Chitosan from Shrimp Waste for Treating Staphylococcus aureus Bacteria in Skin Wound

Shrimp or crustacean waste on the skin, head, and feet has not been maximally utilized. Shrimp or crustacean waste can be processed into chitin or chitosan which can provide high added value. Chitosan is one ingredient that can be used to make skin ointments. One of the bacteria that is harmful to the skin during a wound is Staphylococcus aureus. Hence, there is a need to have a skin ointment that can inhibit these bacteria. The current study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of chitosan in the ointment. Moreover, the current study planned to determine the optimum inhibitory concentration of chitosan in the ointment against Staphylococcus aureus and evaluate the physical properties of ointments. The methods used in the current study were the pH determination, organoleptic test, homogeneity test, and antibacterial activity test to examine chitosan against Staphylococcus aureus. The results showed that chitosan in ointment had a weak antibacterial activity with a value of &lt; 5 mm inhibition zone. Chitosan with a concentration of 0.2% in ointment fulfilled the requirements of a good ointment. Its white colour as the typical colour of chitosan showed the characteristic odour of chitosan and a semi-solid form. Chitosan in the ointment has antibacterial activity that can inhibit Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

Cancer attrition immunotherapy

Cancer is a deadly disease wherein the immune system is inefficient, resulting in malignant tumors that metastasize. An active and robust immune system is the body’s natural defense. Research efforts continue exploring alternative immunotherapies to fight cancer. This communication proposes non-infectious vaccines and hyper-allergenic skin creams to starve malignant tumors through immune metabolic interference.

Legislation and Regulation for Import Manufacture Distribution and Sale of Cosmetics in Sri Lanka

The goal of cosmetics regulation is to provide Sri Lankans with safe and high-quality cosmetics that are equivalent to those in other nations. To accomplish these regulators and industry should collaborate to achieve common objectives. This category includes skin creams, lotions, perfumes, lipsticks, nail polishes, and eye and lip cosmetics. Face makeup, shampoos, permanent waves, hair colours, teeth pastes, deodorants, and any other cosmetics Ingredient intended for use in cosmetic items and gadgets, soap making Cosmetics that do not state that they are for human use are not considered cosmetics under the law. According to the Sri Lankan government, cosmetics must be registered before they can be manufactured, supplied, distributed, or sold. The regulations' goal is to provide guidance and inform marketing authorization holders and consumers about the regulatory authorities' procedures and criteria for determining aesthetic suitability, as well as the requirements for registration and how applications should be made, and how to import, manufacture, distribute, and sell cosmetics in Sri Lanka [NMRA].

Assessment of wound healing efficacy of Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC) in non-diabetic and diabetic Sprague Dawley rats.

The investigation of wound healing potential of human GFC (growth factor concentrate) was undertaken in diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Primarily, GFC is the combination of several growth factors present in blood which has potential of wound healing. In present study, WCK-GFC kit, a single step optimized kit was used for obtaining human GFC. Diabetes in rats was induced by intraperitoneal single injection of 40mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ). The full thickness circular wounds of 2 cm2 area were created using sterilized stainless steel biopsy punch. Non-diabetic wounds were topically treated with 100µL and 300µL of GFC, while diabetic wounds were treated with 300µL of GFC. The standard of care treatment groups were included, wherein the non-diabetic and diabetic wound were topically treated with Nadoxin and Z-AD-G skin cream, respectively. The percentage of wound contraction was measured on weekly intervals. At the end of study duration, tissues from wound were collected for histopathological evaluation. Both diabetic and non-diabetic GFC treated rats exhibited a significantly higher rate of wound contraction on day 8 and 15 compared to normal untreated control group and standard-of-care treated rats. Wound healing was induced by GFC through rapid re-epithelialization. On comparing wound healing with standard-of care agent, the GFC treated wounds demonstrated a faster remodeling phase, a better organization and lower inflammation. The current study demonstrates that topically applied GFC promotes healing of wounds, with enhanced wound contraction in both non-diabetic and diabetic rats.

Microplastics in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Impacts on Aquatic Life and Rodents with Potential Alternatives

Microplastics are environmental contaminants of emerging concern that are used in huge quantities in cosmetics and personal care products. As a result, microplastics are continuously released to the environment with serious implications to the ecosystem and human health. A literature search was carried out on Medline, Mendeley, Science Direct and Scopus, gathering relevant articles from 2014-2021. Common types of microplastics used in these products are polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). They are usually incorporated in toothpastes, shower gels, shampoos, creams, eye shadows, deodorants, blush powders, make-up foundations and skin creams as exfoliators, emulsifiers, binding agents, opacifying agents, anti-static agents and film-forming agents. Microplastics can cause stunted growth, infertility and low survival rate in aquatic life and they also have been linked to obesity, infertility, cancer and diabetes in humans. Major companies such as Unilever and L'Oréal have removed microplastics from their products or use the alternatives such as chitin, cellulose based microbeads and bio-based plastics. Information on long term effects of microplastics on humans is still scarce. The suitability of materials replacing microplastics and the effectiveness of campaigns and the implemented regulations are not fully evaluated. These research gaps are useful for other researchers to explore more on this subject.

Role of the gut-skin axis in IgE-mediated food allergy and atopic diseases.

In recent years, landmark clinical trials investigating the role of early oral exposure to food antigens for food allergy (FA) prevention have highlighted the importance of immunoregulatory pathways in the 'gut-skin axis'. This review highlights recent literature on the mechanisms of the immune system and microbiome involved in the gut-skin axis, contributing to the development of atopic dermatitis (AD), FA, allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma. Therapeutic interventions harnessing the gut-skin axis are also discussed. Epicutaneous sensitization in the presence of AD is capable of inducing Th2 allergic inflammation in the intestinal tract and lower respiratory airways, predisposing one to the development of AR and asthma. Probiotics have demonstrated positive effects in preventing and treating AD, though there is no evident relationship of its beneficial effects on other allergic diseases. Prophylactic skin emollients use has not shown consistent protection against AD, whereas there is some evidence for the role of dietary changes in alleviating AD and airway inflammation. More randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify the potential of epicutaneous immunotherapy as a therapeutic strategy for patients with FA. The growing understanding of the gut-skin interactions on allergic disease pathogenesis presents novel avenues for therapeutic interventions which target modulation of the gut and/or skin.