South African Dermatologist awarded L’Oréal African Hair & Skin Research Grant Dr Willem Visser, Head of Dermatology, Stellenbosch University has been awarded the L’Oréal African Hair & Skin research grant for his research on Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 23, 2016/APO/ -- Dr Willem Visser, Head of Dermatology, Stellenbosch University has been awarded the L’Oréal African Hair & Skin (www.LOreal.co.za) research grant for his research on Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) (www.AfricaDerm.com). The award is open to all dermatologists and African PhD students specialising in the science of skin and hair. Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a skin and hair condition that predominantly affects males with afro-textured hair and patients of African or mixed descent. AKN affects the nape of the neck and produces pustules, results in permanent hair loss and large areas of scarring. AKN may also affect areas beyond the nape of the neck. Dr. Visser’s study aims to investigate the earliest manifestations of its spread. The descriptive study’s objective is to describe the dermatoscopic and histopathological features of sub-clinical or early acne keloidalis nuchae.  For patients or men in the community who are concerned about this disorder, the study aims to empower dermatologists to identify early markers of disease. For patients who are already diagnosed with AKN and in the care of a dermatologist, this study will aim to provide clinical tools to assess further spread of the disease. According to Dr Visser “If this disease is diagnosed early on, treatment may be initiated sooner and the distress associated with this disorder may be significantly lessened.”  The grant supports a one-year research project in Sub-Saharan Africa and the winner receives an amount of 10 000 Euros. The research grant aims to promote clinical and basic research on ethnic skin and hair physiology conducted by African scientists in Africa. “L’Oreal’s Research & Innovation team is passionate about information sharing and ongoing research when it comes to hair and skin. Our recently inaugurated Research & Innovation Center in Johannesburg will collaborate with the African scientific ecosystem, universities, dermatologists, natural biodiversity centers as well as hairdressers,” explains Dr Michele Verschoore, Medical Director, L’Oreal Research & Innovation. Focus areas for the research projects includes:    The jury is made up of seven African and two international experts with the necessary expertise in their respective areas. Jury member and renowned dermatologist, Professor Ncoza Dlova from the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal described the research as “Relevant, practical, important and innovative.’’ To learn more about the L'Oréal African Hair & Skin Research Grant visit www.AfricaDerm.com Distributed by APO on behalf of L'Oréal Group.Media Contact: Helen Da Fonseca   helen.dafonseca@loreal.com   contact number: + 27 11 286 0742 About L'Oréal: L’Oréal (www.LOreal.com) has devoted itself to beauty for over 105 years. With its unique international portfolio of 32 diverse and complementary brands, the Group generated sales amounting to 25.26 billion euros in 2015 and employs 82,900 people worldwide. As the world’s leading Beauty Company, L’Oréal is present across all distribution networks: mass market, department stores, pharmacies and drugstores, hair salons, travel retail, branded retail and e-commerce. Research and innovation, and a dedicated research team of 3,870 people, are at the core of L’Oréal’s strategy, working to meet beauty aspirations all over the world. L’Oréal’s new sustainability commitment for 2020 “Sharing Beauty With All” sets out ambitious sustainable development objectives across the Group’s value chain. www.loreal.com  About L'Oréal South Africa: L’Oréal South Africa (www.LOreal.co.za) was established in 1963 in Johannesburg and is the largest subsidiary in Africa. The company has four divisions, namely the Consumer Products Division, Professional Products Division, L’Oréal Luxe and the Active Cosmetics Division. These divisions manage a range of over 26 brands including Mizani, Redken, Vichy, Armani, Lancôme, YSL, L’Oreal Paris, Maybelline and Dark & Lovely. L’Oréal South Africa employs more than 500 people across the business. The manufacturing plant, located in Midrand, is responsible for the production of African Beauty Brands and select Garnier products that are exported throughout Africa, Europe and the Middle East. For more information visit www.LOreal.co.za or connect with us on Twitter @Loreal_RSA and L’Oréal #BeautyForAll on Facebook.