Medical scientists in the US have identified a potential rosacea treatment pathway in a cell membrane protein called TRPV4.

The scientists found a “missing link” between rosacea triggers and inflammation in mast cells. They discovered that these cells activate antimicrobial peptides called cathelicidins, which are involved in the immune response that is over-produced in people with rosacea.

The study, funded by the National Rosacea Society (NRS), found that one of the proteins in cell membranes, TRPV, facilitates communication between cells and plays a key role in activating these mast cells in people with rosacea.

Using mice bred to exhibit human-like rosacea symptoms, the scientists injected cathelicidins and saw significant increases in the production of TRPV4, and also determined that the protein regulates the inflammation caused by mast cells. This was then tested and confirmed in human mast cell cultures.

“Although more work needs to be done, these findings suggest that potential therapies may be developed specifically to block TRPV4 as a direct means of treating or preventing inflammation in patients with rosacea,” said Dr Anna Di Nardo, associate professor of medicine of the University of California San Diego and lead scientist on the team.

in brief

//Gerrard International, which distributes Jessica, Beauty Lab and Spongelle and manufactures Mii Cosmetics, has taken on UK distribution for aromatherapy brand Scentered. The 100% natural product range includes balms, candles and travel sets in five essential oil blends; Sleep Well, Be Happy, Focus, De-Stress, Love and Escape. The balms are made from a blend of moringa and shea butter.

// Two sisters-in-law have opened a children’s-only day spa in Dublin. Fabulosity Kids Day Spa offers party packages including footspa and manicure treatments, hair styling and glitter tattoos. The spa also has an arts and crafts area stocked with books and costumes for dressing up.

// Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has implemented a career development initiative for its spa staff, in cooperation with the Elemis Academy of Excellence. Your Spa Career Development Plan offers tailor-made programmes from apprentice spa therapist to regional spa manager.

// Guinot Longue Vie Yeux has been awarded a Good Housekeeping Institute Approved Logo. The accolade is given to products after rigorous testing. The eye cream is formulated to smooth and refresh eyelids and contours, with 56 “cellular” active ingredients.

// Rose Lonsdale has been appointed as training manager for High Definition. Lonsdale has experience in the commercial, beauty and education fields. In the past, she has worked for Adel Aesthetics, Steiner, Crystal Spa and Bliss. “Joining High Definition is certainly the highlight of my career so far,” she said.

professionalbeauty.co.uk

in brief

// UK sales of prestige beauty products doubled to reach £60m in the first half of 2017, driven by international visitors taking advantage of the weak pound post-Brexit to buy new make-up and super premium skincare, according to research by analyst NPD.

// Beauty Oasis Spa has opened the doors of its second site, on Burnham High Street in Burnhamon- Sea. The unit was previously occupied by a salon called Enhance, which closed in July. Beauty Oasis Spa also runs a training academy and apprenticeship schemes.

// Lash extension brand Flirties has launched a VIP scheme for its customers; giving them access to training support, special offers and promotions, free marketing materials and samples of new products. Flirties-trained technicians who use the brand’s products in treatment qualify for membership.

// Actress Gemma Atkinson was spotted on social media talking about her experience of the Crystal Clear Comcit H20 Glow treatment. It uses cryo oxygen and hyaluronic acid to invigorate skin cells, while the Comcit roller encourages collagen production.

// Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards tweeted her thanks to Shared Beauty Secrets after experiencing a Kokolokahi massage, calling it the “best massage ever”. The treatment uses one of five oils, each blended to make the client feel a specific way.