TLDR Ecklonia cava extract may protect the scalp from pollution and improve its health.
The study, conducted on January 20, 2020, found that Ecklonia cava extract has protective effects on the scalp against urban pollutants. It was shown to improve cell viability and normalize cell cycle distribution in human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) exposed to pollutants, decrease MMP-1, and increase filaggrin expression in keratinocytes and skin explants, which are important for skin barrier function. A clinical trial with 21 participants demonstrated that a shampoo containing E. cava extract, used daily for 4 weeks, increased scalp hydration by 15.5% to 15.8% and decreased redness, suggesting the extract's potential as a therapeutic agent for scalp care. The study indicated no conflict of interest and was supported by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, Republic of Korea.
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