Background:
Hand eczema is a widespread skin disorder, encompassing a variety of
diseases such as contact dermatitis and dyshidrosis (pompholyx). Dyshidrosis
itself is characterized by initial onset of blistering and dry cracked skin on the
hands or feet, affecting the tips and sides of fingers, toes, soles and palms.
The disease develops progressively to occupy larger surface area and
extensive pathological skin scaling, peeling, bleeding, deep fissures and open
wounds that in many cases do not heal. There is very little known about the
disease, other than a wide held believe it is due to stress, anxiety or contact
with some form of irritant or allergen.
Statement of Problem:
While topical steroidal or non-steroidal immuno-suppressive agents remain
the primary treatment for dyshidrosis, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, they
don't address the etiology of the disease , in some cases are not effective or
only a temporary solution, and are known to lead to local and systemic side
effects with extended use. Skin conditions non-responsive to topical steroidal
creams render chronic long-term afflictions affecting quality of life. For the
case of dyshidrosis, confinement to white gloves, a potential loss of functional
utility of the hands and/or feet and avoiding direct contact with ubiquitous
substances such as soap, water and detergents.
Potential Solution:
FAMU has developed and patented an inside (oral nutritional) – outside
(topical) product for deep skin care originally designed for dyshidrosis. The
principles governing development of the topical/oral product combination
include capacity to [1] augment circulation or blood flow to hands and feet [2]
provide potent anti-microbial: anti-parasitic, anti-bacterial, anti-protozoal, anti-
fungal and anti-viral properties to destroy growth of invading pathogenic
organisms or unknown retroviruses [3] dermal anti-inflammatory agents [4]
cutaneous vasodilators [5] aloe vera and [6] contain constituents that destroy
or remove dead skin, which correlate with healing.
Commercialization Status:
The herbaceutix ™ Inside (Nutritional Supplement) - Outside (Cream) Skin
Care product line is currently in the early development stage but product is
market ready. The herbal extract formulations are safe, complete, and
prototypes can be manufactured on a small scale. We are seeking
collaborative partners or licensees in the Nutraceutical and/or HealthCare or
Topical Skin Care Industries to take these developments into
commercialization. The target market of this product is unique as it will not be
an anti-aging, moisturizing cream, but rather for adverse skin conditions that
affect quality of life.
Brochure
