Specular light reflectance of flakes in seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp: a pilot study

Abstract

Seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff are common scalp conditions. In this study, we set out to explore a new method for rating both the severity of the scalp condition and the efficacy of scalp-care compounds. Scalp flakiness was sampled for 40 volunteers using adhesive-coated clear discs, with image analysis used to quantify the specular light reflectance (SLR) of the flakes Two ultraviolet (UV)-emitting charge-coupled device cameras (Visioscan VC98 and Visiopor PP34) were used. SLR clearly highlighted the flakiness with high contrast against a black background, and the recorded appearance could be conveniently submitted to the image-analysis system for quantification. In conclusion, SLR under UV illumination highlights scalp flakiness, allowing objective measurements.

Stratum corneum evaluation methods: overview

“…Scale is an important parameter of stratum corneum health and the turnover of corneocytes. UV light‐enhanced visualization with a UV charge‐coupled device camera [Visioscan(R) VC98; C+K Electronic, Cologne, Germany], aids the investigator's perception of scaliness in vivo , it may be used with image analysis to standardize interpretation .…”

Determination of sun protection factor and physical remanence of dermocosmetic emulgels formulated with Manilkara zapota (L.) fruit extract

“…Visiopor-PP34N coupled with sixteen diode LEDs emits light in the UVA spectrum (375-385 nm) which activates porphyrins and other flourochromes on the skin of the face, resulting in easy visualization of follicular fluorescence dots (FFDs). These fluorescing entities can be captured by a built-in CCDcamera [4].…”

“…Moreover, relatively liberal amounts can be applied repeatedly as part of an effective photoprotection strategy. The quenching effect of some sunscreen formulations has been studied previously using specific UVA-emitting sources coupled with CCD cameras such as Visiopor PP34N and Visioscan VC98 (Courage + Khazaka Electronics, Germany) with promising results [3][4][5]. Bioactive phytoconstituents are utilized as cosmetic ingredients in many topical formulations because of their antioxidant properties.…”