Artificial intelligence-based prescription of personalized scalp cosmetics improved the scalp condition: efficacy results from 100 participants

Abstract

Background: Scalp-related symptoms such as dandruff and itching are common with diverse underlying etiologies. We previously proposed a novel classification and scoring system for scalp conditions, called the scalp photographic index (SPI); it grades five scalp features using trichoscopic images with good reliability. However, it requires trained evaluators.Aim: To develop artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for assessment of scalp conditions and to assess the feasibility of AI-based recommendations on personalized scalp cosmetics.Methods: Using EfficientNet, convolutional neural network (CNN) models (SPI-AI) ofeach scalp feature were established. 101,027 magnified scalp images graded according to the SPI scoring were used for training, validation, and testing the model Adults with scalp discomfort were prescribed shampoos and scalp serums personalized according to their SPI-AI-defined scalp types. Using the SPI, the scalp conditions were evaluated at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12 of treatment.Results: The accuracies of the SPI-AI for dryness, oiliness, erythema, folliculitis, and dandruff were 91.3%, 90.5%, 89.6%, 87.3%, and 95.2%, respectively. Overall, 100 individuals completed the 4-week study; 43 of these participated in an extension study until week 12. The total SPI score decreased from 32.70 ± 7.40 at baseline to 15.97 ± 4.68 at week 4 (p < 0.001). The efficacy was maintained throughout 12 weeks.Conclusions: SPI-AI accurately assessed the scalp condition. AI-based prescription of tailored scalp cosmetics could significantly improve scalp health.

Keywords:

• Artificial intelligence
• dandruff
• evaluation
• folliculitis
• prescription
• scalp

Acknowledgments

IRB approval status: reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (IRB No. B-2107-697-301).

Disclosure statement

In accordance with Taylor & Francis policy and my ethical obligation as a researcher, I am reporting that Aram Huvis Co., Ltd (Seongnam, Korea) provided a trichoscope (ASM-202TM) and manufactured the personalized shampoo and scalp serum that were all used in this study. I have disclosed these interests fully to Taylor & Francis, and have in place an approved plan for managing any potential conflicts arising from this arrangement.

Data availability statement

For any purpose, with investigator support, anyone can request the data through email-id [email protected]

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the National Information Society Agency of Korea under Grant number 20200804-TM50.