Home | Hair & Skin Research Lab

Advancing Dermatological Care and Research at UCT

Modern economies require multi-skilled training to increase employment opportunities and entrepreneurship, so graduates (MSc/PhD) trained in this facility will be able to work in diverse fields where hair is increasingly being used for test

Our Research

Our research focuses on advancing the understanding of human variation, moving beyond traditional racial classifications to objective, scientifically grounded approaches.

Clinical Services

We offer advanced analytical testing, in vitro assays, and clinical trial support using state-of-the-art facilities. Explore our services for innovative research and reliable solutions.

NOTICE: 2025 Admission for Advance Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation Science are closed

What is the Hair & Skin Research Lab?

The HSR Lab is a national facility for multi-disciplinary collaborations and training of a new cadre of scientist in the new MSc (Med) in Trichology and Cosmetic Science, making UCT the first to offer this unique program. Modern economies require multi-skilled training to increase employment opportunities and entrepreneurship, so graduates (MSc/PhD) trained in this facility will be able to work in diverse fields where hair is increasingly being used for testing including medical sciences, the cosmetic industry and beyond. Read more

Higher concentrations of dithranol appear to induce hair growth even in severe alopecia areata

Alopecia areata (AA) is the commonest autoimmune cause of non-scarring alopecia. Topical treatments including corticosteroids and irritants maybe beneficial. Studies report variable hair regrowth with dithranol (anthralin) but all used low

Dangerous skin lightening products on sale on our streets

Even though South Africa has some of the toughest laws against skin lighteners, many international products containing dangerous and illegal substances are still being sold in Cape Town, a UCT study has found.

History of Dermatology at UCT

The Dermatology service was started in 1922 at Somerset Hospital by Dr Hugh Smith, a physician. The first Head of Dermatology was Dr Morees Bosman and in 1930 training for specialization through the University of Cape Town was established.

Kindly note that this website is still under construction and not all content may be available

Research

A diverse network of researchers, clinicians, and institutions that have contributed to groundbreaking studies in dermatology, hair science, and related fields. Collaboration is at the heart of scientific progress, and these partnerships have enabled innovative research, shared expertise, and the development of impactful solutions to complex health challenges.

Clinal Services

Clinical Dermatology is vibrant and busy offering both inpatient and outpatient services at Groote Schuur (Link) and Red Cross Hospitals (Link). A private inpatient dermatology service is offered by sessional consultants from our team at the UCT Private Academic Hospital (Link) which is housed within the New Groote Hospital Building.

Prof Nonhanhla Khumalo

Director of the Hair and Skin Research Lab

"Leading with Excellence"

Department of Medicine