Beiersdorf research targets micro-inflammation to treat scalp and hair problems

The DermoCapillaire scalp and hair care range has been based around the principle that most hair and scalp conditions originate from micro-inflammation, which is caused by external factors, including, heat from hairdryers, UV-light, cosmetic products, over-brushing and scratching.

“Stress produces free radicals which lead to the release of inflammation-mediators such as cytokines. When our stress level remains high over a long period of time, persistent micro-inflammation is then seen as one of the leading factors causing the most common scalp problems,”​ explained Stefanie Conzelmann, Head of product development dermo cosmetics at Beiersdorf.

Micro inflammation has been identified as the cause of a long list of hair and scalp problems, including severe itchiness and dryness, which is invariably linked to the flaky skin synonymous with dandruff, as well as other associated symptoms such as thinning hair.

Chinese liquorice to fight inflammation​

Identifying these problems, the Beiesdorf research team researched the development of an ingredient that would target the micro-inflammation and treat the associated conditions.

Conzelmann explained that after exhaustive research, the team discovered that the most effective substance at treating this condition was Licochalcone A, a natural extract from the Chinese liquorice plant that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

The next step was to develop the product range, which the team decided would require more than just a shampoo to effectively treat the symptoms, as shampoo does not usually stay long enough on the scalp to be effective at treating such symptoms.

Shampoo and leave-in treatment​

The logical step has been to create a shampoo that combines a leave-in treatment which includes the Licochalcone A, together with a variety of other active ingredients to provide what the company believes is an effective treatment.

“With our new product range Eucerin DermoCapillaire, we developed a compact and competitive product assortment targeting the most common scalp problems such as thinning hair, dandruff, dryness, persistent itching and hypersensitivity,”​ said Orietta Balbontin, International Brand Manager Eucerin Personal Care.

Ballbontin went on to express her opinion that these hair and scalp issues are extremely important to consumers, particularly in the pharmacy channel, where Eucerin is already a significant player, with further potential.