Congratulations Ravija Kadam
Many congratulations to my PhD student Ravija Kadam for winning the 1st prize in the Faculty of Science Three Minute Thesis competition at Liverpool John Moores University in May 2024. As can be seen in the picture, her presentation title is “The Quest for Flawless Skin: Future or Futile?”. Ravija has immense potential, and I am confident will go further in her work as a leading researcher. Ravija is currently working on advanced delivery formulations for skin pigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation is more than just a cosmetic issue. It affects approximately 20 to 65% of the global population at some point in their lives, including conditions caused by high sun exposure, inflammatory and allergic conditions, and genetics. The market for hyperpigmentation treatments is substantial and growing. In 2023, the global market size was valued at approximately $5.3 billion and is expected to reach $7.09 billion by 2027. Current approaches to treat hyperpigmentation such as; topicals, chemical peels, and laser therapy, face challenges around efficacy, toxicity, scarring, high costs, and a lack of standardization. Treatments such as laser therapy and chemical peels may also cause allergic reactions. These challenges highlight the need for careful consideration, rigorous research and development, stricter regulations, and increased consumer education on safe treatment options.
Consequently, future innovations include nanotechnology, adapting advanced delivery formulations for precise drug delivery to affected areas through sustainable, skin-friendly solutions. Moreover, combining two naturally derived drugs from citrus fruits, seeds, legumes, and whole grains that work at every stage of hyperpigmentation can provide effective skin-lightening benefits while reducing side effects and toxicity using these advanced delivery formulations. Furthermore, the incorporation of nanoparticles in face masks can be an effective and user-friendly treatment for hyperpigmentation. They offer gentle application that minimizes irritation whilst delivering targeted active ingredients to reduce dark spots and brighten the skin. These products often include moisturizing components that support skin barrier repair and overall skin health. The final goal being easy to adopt into daily skincare routines without the need for professional supervision, hoping for better results and happy faces.
Iftikhar Khan
Faculty of Science
School of Pharmacy and biomolecular Sciences
Liverpool John Moores university
L3 3AF
UK