The sebaceous glands are responsible for the secretion of sebum. Its function is to maintain a proper epidermal barrier and participate in metabolic processes within the epidermis. Excessive sebum secretion leads to the development of various seborrheic diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the in vivo correlation between the amount of sebum and the directional reflectance of the skin. Measurements were performed using a Sebumeter (Courage + Khazaka, Germany) and a directional hemispherical reflectometer (Solar 410, SOC, USA). It has been shown that the amount of sebum does not affect the directional reflectance of the skin at a wavelength of 335–380 nm. With an increase in the amount of sebum, the directional reflectance of the skin decreases at wavelengths of 400–540 nm and 480–600 nm. However, with an increase in the amount of sebum, the directional reflectance of the skin increases at wavelengths of 590–720 nm, 700–1100 nm, 1000–1700 nm, and 1700–2500 nm. The closest relationship between amount of sebum and directional reflectance of the skin was observed at a wavelength of 700–1100 nm. Reflecting/scattering radiation from the skin surface, depending on the sebum content, may be clinically significant not only in the context of exposure to solar radiation but also in the context of numerous therapeutic methods based on artificial sources of radiation. In this area, it is desirable for the radiation to penetrate the skin as effectively as possible. The obtained preliminary results confirm that the used method is an interesting alternative to spectroscopic methods.

The growing popularity of permanent makeup is associated with an increase in the need for treatments that effectively remove pigments from the skin. The risk of the radiation wavelength not being adjusted to the spectral ranges of individual pigments that compose the final color appears because complex dye compositions are used for permanent makeup. Incorrectly selected laser parameters may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment and increase the risk of thermal damage, leading to scarring and discoloration. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of laser permanent makeup removal using hyperspectral imaging. Five different dyes were implemented into the skin of the pig’s ear. Then the dyes were removed using a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. During the study, skin measurements were performed with a hyperspectral camera before and after laser application. The results were analyzed using GLCM, reflectance, and quadratic tree decomposition. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the most difficult dye to remove is white because it is characterized by high reflectivity of electromagnetic radiation. After the dye removal, there was a decrease in reflectance and contrast of GLCM and an increase in homogeneity for all dyes except for white. After the laser application, the pigments were distributed more equally in the skin.

Background: Sugars, also known as saccharides or carbohydrates, are essential organic compounds that ensure the human body functions properly. They are used as sources of energy, as structural elements and reserve materials. Excessive sugar consumption is prevalent in many countries and has negative health consequences. Methods: A total of 283 people living in Poland took part in the study. An interview and olfactory tests (dynamic olfactometry method) were conducted together with assessments of food preferences from 25 types of food products. Aim: To assess the impact of olfactory efficiency and individual characteristics, such as sex, age, body weight and tobacco addiction, on preferences for various sweet products. Another important objective of this study was to examine the patterns in preferences for different sweet foods. Result and Conclusions: Of all the types of sweet products analysed in the study, desserts and fruit were the most popular. Preferences varied depending on the type of sweet food or drink as well as on other factors. In terms of declared enjoyment, desserts, chocolate and sweets, including jellies and bread, formed a common group (Factor Three: ‘sweet products’); while sweet, carbonated drinks formed the group—Factor One (‘junk food’); and fruit, together with vegetables, salads, cheese and spicy dishes, formed the group—Factor Four. The most important factors influencing the preference for sweet foods and drinks were the severity of tobacco addiction, age and sex. There was no significant influence from olfactory efficiency or body mass index on the preference for any of the sweet products in the study.