Media Release
Date: 24th March 2006
`Research Shows Dry Skin Needs Expert Touch’
The discovery of the gene that causes dry skin means that it is more important than ever that people with problem skin
consult a skincare expert rather than rely on over the counter preparations, according to Janine Tait at New Zealand
skincare solutions specialists, Janesce.
Dry skin affects one in ten people of European origins. In more extreme cases it manifests as eczema, which is estimated
to affect four per cent of the New Zealand population.
New work at Dundee University has revealed the gene that produces filaggrin, which is normally found in large quantities
in the outer layers of the skin. Filaggrin is a vital part of the skin barrier function, helping to retain water and
moisturising properties, as well as keeping foreign organisms and bacteria out.
Janine Tait explained: `Those people who don’t have this protective barrier find that their skin dries out very quickly,
making it susceptible to damage and even infections. This can lead to painful chapped skin and even bleeding unsightly
wounds.
`The Scottish discovery should help us tackle the root cause of the problem, as opposed to just treating the symptoms,
and could ultimately lead to more targeted treatment of the condition in specific individuals. In the meantime it is
vital that sufferers consult a skincare specialist. In many instances a qualified beauty therapist can recommend a
suitable skin care regime, which means that the damage won’t get so bad that they will need to consult with a
dermatologist ‘
The research also discovered a link between the dry skin condition ichthyosis vulgaris, eczema and asthma.
Further testing of the presence of different filaggrin mutations in other ethnic populations has proved that reduction
or absence of filaggrin in the skin is likely to be a major cause of dry skin and eczema worldwide.
Janine Tait commented: `More work needs to be done to identify how the isolation of the gene mutation will affect the
way we treat both dry skin conditions and asthma in the future. Currently the only treatment for dry skin conditions are
through a wide range of medical and non-medical ointments and emollients, such as the Janesce Hypersensitive range
together with anti inflammatory drugs. ‘
Janesce skin care products are based on active organics made from pure plant extracts, which feed, nourish and support
the skin. These organically-based salon-only products are part of an integrated approach to skin care which combines the
pure, potent plant-based range with simple, effective nutritional advice from an experienced team of skin care
professionals. Professional-only skin care products are formulated with higher percentages of active ingredients to
treat the skin and are often more effective than over the counter preparations.
ENDS