Dr. Nonhlanhla Khumalo

Nonhlanhla Khumalo is a South African dermatologist and academic based at the University of Cape Town, widely recognized for her contributions to hair and scalp disorders research. Her work bridges clinical dermatology and laboratory science, with a strong emphasis on conditions disproportionately affecting patients of African ancestry, advancing more inclusive and representative dermatologic knowledge.

Her recent publications highlight innovative approaches to understanding hair biology, including micro-computed tomography analyses of hair fibre geometry and investigations into the biochemical mechanisms underlying curl pattern changes. She has also contributed to advancing knowledge on androgenetic alopecia and the psychosocial dimensions of hair disease, integrating structural, molecular, and clinical perspectives.

A major focus of her translational research is keloid disease and fibrotic skin disorders. Through proteogenomic profiling, biomarker discovery, and the development of immortalized keloid-derived fibroblast cell lines, her work has strengthened experimental models and therapeutic exploration. Additional studies on FAM111B-associated fibrosis and cost-effective molecular diagnostics reflect a commitment to clinically relevant, resource-conscious innovation.