The Head of Dermatology at Stellenbosch University. Dr Willem Visser, has received recognition for his work in the field of Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN) in the form of a L’Oréal African Hair & Skin research grant.

AKN primarily affects males of African descent and results in hair loss and scarring. The goal of Vissner’s study is to discover the earliest manifestation of the disease.

“If this disease is diagnosed early on, treatment may be initiated sooner and the distress associated with this disorder lessened,” said Vissner.

The grant takes the form of a €10,000 sum to support a research project in Sub-Saharan Africa. “L’Oréal’s Research & Innovation team is passionate about information sharing and ongoing research when it comes to hair and skin,” said Dr Michele Verschoore, Medical Director, L’Oréal Research & Innovation. “Our recently inaugurated Research & Innovation Center in Johannesburg will collaborate with the African scientific ecosystem, universities, dermatologists, natural biodiversity centers as well as hairdressers.”