Skin is a complex and dynamic organ that provides a protective interface between the external environment and the body; changes in skin appearance are often the first visible signs of aging. It is well established that nutrients and other bioactive substances have important roles in the structure and functions of human skin; however, the effects of dietary supplementation of such bioactives are much less investigated. The objective of this randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled study was to investigate the effects of liquid food supplement, characterised by a combination of water-soluble coenzyme Q10 (Q10Vital®) and collagen, on dermal density and other skin parameters in comparison to placebo. The trial was performed on 34 healthy women aged 40–65 that received either the test product (n = 17) or the placebo (n = 17) for twelve weeks. Measurements and assessments of skin parameters were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention. We observed improved dermis density, reduced periorbital wrinkle area and the total wrinkle score, and improved skin smoothness. On the other hand, changes in skin hydration, dermis thickness, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and viscoelasticity were not significant.

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Introduction Most data related to cutaneous melanoma survivors’ health behaviour comes from epidemiological studies and is predominantly concerned with safe-sun behaviour and self-examination. Data regarding other changes of health behaviour are scarce and so are qualitative studies in this realm. The aim of our research is to acquire insight into the experiences of patients with cutaneous melanoma in Slovenia. How did they react to the diagnosis, which changes did they introduce in their health behaviour and how do they assess the role of family doctors? Methods Using the qualitative approach of collective case reports, a demographically diverse group of patients with different forms and stages of cutaneous melanoma was selected. Semi-structured interviews conducted by a psychologist were recorded and transcribed verbatim. For data processing, the approach of Qualitative Content Analysis was applied. Results We integrated interviewees’ experiences after the diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma in several subcategories: either they did not introduce any changes or they mentioned changing their habits when exposed to the sun and performing skin self-examination; they also emphasized their ways of dealing with stress and raising awareness about melanoma among family members and friends. The role of family doctors in the prevention and care appears unclear; even contradictory. Conclusion We obtained insight into the experiences of Slovenian patients with cutaneous melanoma. The interviewees prioritised safe behaviour in the sun, strengthening of psychological stability and raising awareness about melanoma. Findings will be used in the creation of a structured questionnaire for national epidemiological survey.

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