Two cases of a subvariant of the Omicron variant were identified in Washington state. Two cases were also identified in Houston.

The Omicron variant can survive longer than earlier versions of the coronavirus on plastic surfaces and human skin, Japanese researchers found in laboratory tests. Additionally, new research shows users of rapid antigen tests to detect COVID-19 should swab their nostrils as directed by the manufacturer and not swab the throat or cheek instead.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first treatment that addresses IL-13 cytokine in adults diagnosed with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

A study out of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis found that months after recovering from mild Covid-19, patients maintained antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Researchers believe that the specific cells that produce the antibodies should persist for a lifetime.

A little more than a week after announcing plans to acquire Ra Pharmaceutical for $2.1 billion, UCB’s psoriasis drug bimekizumab met all endpoints in the first of three Phase III studies.

Researchers with Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute in La Jolla, California, were able to grow natural-looking hair that grows through the skin using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

Spending time in the sun without protection increases the risk of melanoma, but the potentially deadly skin cancer can occur even on sites with minimal sun exposure, doctors warn.

Nestle entered exclusive talks to sell the company’s skin health business to a consortium led by EQT Partners for 10.2 billion Swiss francs ($10.1 billion), as the food group shifts its portfolio in response to changing consumer demands.

Beiersdorf, the maker of Nivea and other skin care brands, is buying U.S. sun care brand Coppertone from Bayer for $550 million to strengthen the German consumer goods firm’s position in North America.