Canine alopecia, or abnormal hair loss, is an increasingly common reason for consultation in veterinary clinics. While certain types of hair loss are physiological, such as seasonal shedding, others are a visible sign of an underlying imbalance, parasitic, hormonal, nutritional, allergic, or behavioural.
In a context where pet owners are increasingly attentive to the well-being, hygiene and appearance of their animals, veterinary dermo-cosmetic care is now regarded as an essential complement to medical management.
Understanding the mechanisms of alopecia in dogs
Canine skin presents several key differences from human skin. It has a more neutral pH, generally between 6.5 and 7.5, a more fragile lipid barrier, and a species-specific cutaneous microbiota. These characteristics make it particularly sensitive to internal imbalances (such as hormonal or dietary disorders) and external aggressions, including unsuitable products, parasites or environmental factors.
The causes of canine alopecia are diverse and include:
- Parasitic causes: fleas, sarcoptic mange or demodicosis can trigger intense itching and localised hair loss, often accompanied by redness and crusts.
- Secondary infections: bacterial (pyoderma) or fungal (dermatophytosis, Malassezia overgrowth) infections exacerbate cutaneous inflammation and inhibit hair regrowth.
- Endocrine disorders: hypothyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome disrupt metabolism, affecting coat quality and growth, often without associated itching.
- Nutritional deficiencies: inadequate intake of essential fatty acids, zinc, biotin or protein compromises skin and coat health, slowing regeneration.
- Allergies: atopy (environmental hypersensitivity) and food allergies cause chronic pruritus, leading to secondary lesions (scratching, licking) and hair loss.
- Behavioural disorders: compulsive licking due to stress, anxiety or boredom results in localised alopecia, particularly in dogs living in urban environments or with insufficient stimulation.
Veterinary dermo-cosmetics: a key ally in managing canine dermatoses
In the treatment of canine skin conditions, especially chronic or recurrent dermatitis, medical management forms the cornerstone of therapy. However, dermo-cosmetic topical care has become an indispensable adjuvant, integrated into therapeutic protocols to enhance clinical outcomes, extend remission phases and improve the animal’s quality of life.
A well-formulated dermo-cosmetic product for canine skin can fulfil several essential functions. It helps to restore skin barrier integrity, soothe discomfort associated with sensitivities, rebalance the superficial microbial flora, maintain optimal epidermal hydration, and support natural skin regeneration. These actions contribute to overall skin comfort in animals prone to frequent skin imbalances.
Today, the skin microbiota is recognised as a key factor in maintaining skin homeostasis and represents a major area of innovation in dermo-cosmetic science. Formulations that aim to preserve or restore this cutaneous ecosystem are now central to non-pharmaceutical care strategies, particularly in cases of skin fragility.
The efficacy and tolerability of a topical product depend on both the quality of its formulation and its compatibility with the physiological specificities of canine skin. To ensure optimal tolerance, it is crucial to avoid substances known for their sensitising potential, such as certain allergenic fragrances or essential oils with dermocaustic or photosensitising properties, including cinnamon, peppermint or citrus oils, which are often unsuitable for dogs.
The choice of surfactants, particularly in cleansing products, should favour ultra-mild cleansing agents such as glucosides, which help preserve the skin’s hydrolipidic film and reduce the risk of irritation. The product’s pH should ideally be adjusted to match that of canine skin, generally between 6.5 and 7.5, to maintain physiological balance and support microbiome health. In addition, preservative systems should be selected for their high level of tolerability and low irritant or allergenic potential, in line with a minimalist and skin-respectful formulation strategy. This minimalist approach, focused on efficacy and safety, limits unwanted interactions while maintaining the cosmetic performance of the product.
Towards a new generation of veterinary dermo-cosmetic care combining naturality and biotechnology
A new generation of veterinary dermo-cosmetic products is emerging, based on a balanced synergy between naturally derived active ingredients (such as plant extracts and oils rich in essential fatty acids) and biotechnology-based innovations including postbiotics, peptides and microbial extracts.
These products, formulated using methods that preserve ingredient integrity, offer excellent skin tolerance while maintaining the physiological balance of the skin. They are particularly suited to regular use, to maintain skin barrier function, support microbiota health and promote skin comfort, even for animals with sensitive skin, including both dogs and cats.
In conclusion, modern veterinary dermo-cosmetics go beyond grooming. They are grounded in science and in the respect for the skin’s physiology, making them true allies in the maintenance of healthy skin, particularly in animals with sensitive or discomfort-prone skin. Product selection must therefore meet high standards in terms of formulation, tolerability and quality.
Tailor-made formulation expertise for brand development
At Laboratoire Orescience, we believe that the future of animal skincare lies in intelligent, ethical and results-oriented formulation. With advanced expertise in veterinary dermo-cosmetics, our Research & Development department develops innovative topical solutions, specifically formulated to meet the skin needs of various animal species.
We support brands, laboratories, start-ups and distributors in creating bespoke products adapted to the physiology of dogs, cats, horses and animals with sensitive skin, particularly in cases of skin imbalance, alopecia or recurring discomfort.
Our comprehensive support spans the entire process: scientific and marketing brief definition, selection of natural and functional actives from responsible supply chains, formulation of effective and stable prototypes, adaptation to current veterinary regulations (European, North American, Asian, Canadian and Middle Eastern markets), as well as tolerance testing on sensitive animals under the supervision of partner veterinarians.
Our approach is built on performance, safety and sustainability. We favour gentle chemistry processes, green technologies and innovative biotechnological ingredients, always with respect for the skin physiology of each animal species. Hair or coat loss, whether in dogs, cats, horses or other sensitive animals, should not be seen as merely an aesthetic issue. It often reflects a deeper cutaneous or environmental imbalance, requiring a global, expert and respectful approach.
By developing targeted dermo-cosmetic care products, brands have the opportunity to provide high-value solutions to a common concern, with well-tolerated, effective, and natural formulations where excellence in formulation makes all the difference.
Looking to develop a skincare range for animals?
The R&D teams at Laboratoire Orescience offer full-service support, from concept to formulation, with tailor-made solutions and comprehensive regulatory guidance.
Our developments comply with the strictest requirements of the veterinary dermo-cosmetics sector, both in Europe and internationally.
Get in touch with us today to create a unique and tailored offer for your brand.
