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Sensitive scalp is associated with excessive sebum and perturbed microbiome
Li Ma1, Alexandre Guichard1, Ying Cheng1
1Skin and Cosmetic Research Department, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Shanghai, China.
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
|August 8, 2018
Summary
Sensitive scalp exhibits a disrupted skin barrier, altered sebum, and an imbalanced microbiome. These factors, including elevated pH and increased Propionibacterium, are key to understanding and treating scalp sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiome research
- Biophysics
Background:
- Sensitive scalp involves abnormal sensory reactions to stimuli, often difficult to diagnose objectively.
- It is a common complaint associated with sensitive skin syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biophysical characteristics of sensitive scalp.
- To determine the underlying causes of sensitive scalp.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-two healthy females were grouped into sensitive scalp (SS) and non-sensitive scalp (NS) based on questionnaires.
- Biophysical properties were measured noninvasively.
- Lipid profiles were analyzed using LC-MS/MS and GC-MS.
- Bacterial composition was assessed via 16S rRNA sequencing.
Main Results:
- Sensitive scalp displayed higher pH, skin irritation, and porphyrin fluorescence.
- Increased sebum production with higher levels of free fatty acids, cholesteryl ester, and squalene was observed in the SS group.
- The SS group showed a higher abundance of Propionibacterium and reduced bacterial diversity.
Conclusions:
- Sensitive scalp is characterized by impaired barrier function, abnormal sebum composition and quantity, and a disturbed scalp microbiome.
- These findings suggest potential direct causes for scalp sensitivity.
- Targeted product development addressing these specific features may benefit sensitive scalp management.
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