Microdermabrasion: an evidence-based review

Comparative evaluation of physical and chemical enhancement techniques for transdermal delivery of linagliptin

Linagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor used for the management of type-2 diabetes. US FDA-approved products are available exclusively as oral tablets. The inherent drawbacks of the oral administration route necessitate exploring delivery strategies via other routes. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of transdermal administration of linagliptin through various approaches. We compared chemical penetration enhancers (oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, and isopropyl myristate) and physical enhancement techniques (iontophoresis, sonophoresis, microneedles, laser, and microdermabrasion) to understand their potential to improve transdermal delivery of linagliptin. To our knowledge, this is the first reported comparison of chemical and physical enhancement techniques for the transdermal delivery of a moderately lipophilic molecule. All physical enhancement techniques caused a significant reduction in the transepithelial electrical resistance of the skin samples. Disruption of the skin's structure post-treatment with physical enhancement techniques was further confirmed using characterization techniques such as dye binding, histology, and confocal microscopy. In vitro permeation testing (IVPT) demonstrated that the passive delivery of linagliptin across the skin was < 5 µg/sq.cm. Two penetration enhancers - oleic acid (93.39 ± 8.34 µg/sq.cm.) and oleyl alcohol (424.73 ± 42.86 µg/sq.cm.), and three physical techniques - iontophoresis (53.05 ± 0.79 µg/sq.cm.), sonophoresis (141.13 ± 34.22 µg/sq.cm.), and laser (555.11 ± 78.97 µg/sq.cm.) exceeded the desired target delivery for therapeutic effect. This study established that linagliptin is an excellent candidate for transdermal delivery and thoroughly compared chemical penetration and physical transdermal delivery strategies.

Cosmetic Considerations in Dark-Skinned Patients

For dermatologists, diversities of human races result in an opportunity to encounter patients with various skin types. Cosmetic procedures have gained more popularity and become more accessible over the past decades. Thus, the selection of appropriate treatment protocol for each patient becomes inevitable. This review will focus on basic knowledge and key points in performing safe cosmetic-related procedures in patients with dark-complexioned skin. In terms of structure and function of the skin, people of color have equal epidermal thickness, corneocyte size and melanocyte number. However, they have more stratum corneum compaction, melanosome dispersion and melanocyte activity than fair skin individuals. Data regarding drug penetration and cutaneous irritation showed conflicting results. Superficial chemical peels and microdermabrasion can be done safely in dark-skinned patients. Medium-depth peel should be used with extreme caution. While deep-depth peel should be avoided at all times due to pigmentary and textural complications. Prolonged treatment interval, use of priming agents and sun protection are recommended. Injectable materials including botulinum toxin and soft tissue augmentation by hyaluronic acid filler can be done harmlessly in dark-skinned patients. Lasers and energy-based devices should be done with caution. Higher melanin dispersion and melanocyte activity acts as competitive chromophore. Pigmentary or textural changes can occur after aggressive treatment protocol. High energy setting, pulse stacking, short wavelength lasers and short treatment interval should be avoided in dark-skinned patients.

Clinically Actionable Topical Strategies for Addressing the Hallmarks of Skin Aging: A Primer for Aesthetic Medicine Practitioners

In this narrative review, we sought to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying cutaneous senescence, framed by the twelve traditional hallmarks of aging. These include genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis, impaired macroautophagy, deregulated nutrient sensing, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence, stem cell exhaustion, altered intercellular communication, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis. We also examined how topical interventions targeting these hallmarks can be integrated with conventional aesthetic medicine techniques to enhance skin rejuvenation. The potential of combining targeted topical therapies against the aging hallmarks with minimally invasive procedures represents a significant advancement in aesthetic medicine, offering personalized and effective strategies to combat skin aging. The reviewed evidence paves the way for future advancements and underscores the transformative potential of integrating scientifically validated interventions targeted against aging hallmarks into traditional aesthetic practices.

Combining Diamond-Tip Dermabrasion Treatments and Topical Skincare in Participants with Dry, Hyperpigmented, Photodamaged or Acne-Prone/Oily Facial Skin: A Clinical Usage Study

Purpose

An in-office diamond tip microdermabrasion device (DG) was designed to simultaneously exfoliate, extract, and infuse topical cosmetic serums into the skin to improve its appearance. Combining in-office procedures with take-home skincare may enhance treatment outcomes. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a novel combination of DG treatments with a take-home cosmetic skincare regimen (DGR) to address facial dryness, hyperpigmentation, photodamage, or acne-prone/oily skin.

Patients and Methods

In this 12-week, open-label, single-center study, participants were assigned to 1 of 4 groups according to skin presentation: dry, hyperpigmented, photodamaged, or acne-prone/oily. All participants received 6 bi-weekly DG treatments with tailored DGR topical products. During the DG treatment, the dry, hyperpigmented, photodamaged, and acne-prone/oily groups received hydrating, brightening, antioxidant, and pore-clarifying serums, respectively. Study endpoints included investigator grading, standardized photography, and participant questionnaires.

Results

Sixteen participants aged 22 to 70 years with Fitzpatrick Skin Types I-V completed the study. Immediately after the first DG treatment, significant improvements in dryness, radiance, texture, photodamage, and fine lines were achieved (P<0.01). At 72 hours, significant improvements were maintained in all these parameters except fine lines (P<0.05). The DG and DGR combination provided significant long-term improvements at week 12 compared to baseline for dryness, radiance, texture, hyperpigmentation, photodamage, skin tone unevenness, and periocular/perioral fine lines (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The combination of DG and DGR showed significant immediate and long-term improvements in skin appearance. These results show that the DG and DGR combination is a well-tolerated and effective intervention to enhance different aspects of facial skin quality.

Treatment of acne in the aesthetic patient: A round table update

BACKGROUND

The popularity of social media appears to be increasing the acceptance of cosmetic treatments, prompting more consumers to seek cosmetic treatments. As the estimated prevalence of acne vulgaris among adult women may be as high as 54%, acne is commonly observed among patients presenting for cosmetic treatments. Concomitant treatment of acne in the aesthetic patient population will improve overall clinical outcomes.

AIMS

The goal of this work was to deliver a high-quality ethical and evidence-based educational program to physicians and adjunctive health care providers to advance patient care.

METHODS

This paper is based on a webcam presentation with roundtable discussion by several notable experts in their field.

RESULTS

A range of topical medications, injectable products, chemical peels, and energy-based devices are available for treating acne vulgaris. In most instances, these are compatible with rejuvenation procedures in the aesthetic patient.

CONCLUSION

The growth of social media is raising awareness of aesthetic procedures and appears to be increasing the number of patients seeking aesthetic treatment. Educating patients about the importance of treating acne vulgaris can improve overall treatment outcomes. In most instances, the presence of acne is not a barrier to aesthetic care.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of cosmetics on the ocular surface

In this report the use of eye cosmetic products and procedures and how this represents a lifestyle challenge that may exacerbate or promote the development of ocular surface and adnexal disease is discussed. Multiple aspects of eye cosmetics are addressed, including their history and market value, psychological and social impacts, possible problems associated with cosmetic ingredients, products, and procedures, and regulations for eye cosmetic use. In addition, a systematic review that critically appraises randomized controlled trial evidence concerning the ocular effects of eyelash growth products is included. The findings of this systematic review highlight the evidence gaps and indicate future directions for research to focus on ocular surface outcomes associated with eyelash growth products.

Efficacy and Tolerability of Cosmetic Serums Enriched with Five Forms of Hyaluronic Acid as Part of Biweekly Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion Treatments for Facial Skin Dryness and Age-Associated Features

Purpose

There is growing interest in combining topical treatments with aesthetic procedures to combat signs of aging skin. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of a novel cosmetic serum containing 5 different forms of HA (HA⁵ DG) when used via a proprietary diamond-tip microdermabrasion procedure (DG) to treat skin dryness, fine lines/wrinkles, rough texture, and dullness.

Patients and Methods

In this open-label, single-center study, participants received HA⁵ DG as part of a biweekly DG procedure on the face and neck for 12 weeks. Study participants also applied another take-home HA⁵ serum to the face twice daily at home, along with a basic skincare regimen. The efficacy of the combined treatment was measured by clinical quantification of multiple skin appearance features, analysis of bioinstrumental measurements, and digital photography.

Results

This study enrolled 27 participants, with an average age of 42.7 years and Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I-III (59.3%), IV (18.5%), and V-VI (22.2%), and 23 participants completed the study. The combined treatment had effects in fine lines/wrinkles, skin dryness, smoothness, radiance, firmness, and hydration 15 minutes post-DG. Furthermore, the significant improvements observed in dryness, fine lines/wrinkles, skin smoothness, and radiance were still visible 3 days after and maintained at week 12. Additionally, smoothing of coarse lines/wrinkles, improvement of skin tone evenness, hyperpigmentation, photodamage, and transepidermal water loss were observed at week 12. The treatment had a favorable tolerability profile and was perceived as efficacious and highly satisfactory.

Conclusion

This novel combined treatment delivered immediate and prolonged skin hydration and high participant satisfaction, proving it can be an excellent approach for skin rejuvenation.

Neurocosmetics in Skincare—The Fascinating World of Skin–Brain Connection: A Review to Explore Ingredients, Commercial Products for Skin Aging, and Cosmetic Regulation

The “modern” cosmetology industry is focusing on research devoted to discovering novel neurocosmetic functional ingredients that could improve the interactions between the skin and the nervous system. Many cosmetic companies have started to formulate neurocosmetic products that exhibit their activity on the cutaneous nervous system by affecting the skin’s neuromediators through different mechanisms of action. This review aims to clarify the definition of neurocosmetics, and to describe the features of some functional ingredients and products available on the market, with a look at the regulatory aspect. The attention is devoted to neurocosmetic ingredients for combating skin stress, explaining the stress pathways, which are also correlated with skin aging. “Neuro-relaxing” anti-aging ingredients derived from plant extracts and neurocosmetic strategies to combat inflammatory responses related to skin stress are presented. Afterwards, the molecular basis of sensitive skin and the suitable neurocosmetic ingredients to improve this problem are discussed. With the aim of presenting the major application of Botox-like ingredients as the first neurocosmetics on the market, skin aging is also introduced, and its theory is presented. To confirm the efficacy of the cosmetic products on the market, the concept of cosmetic claims is discussed.

Striae Distensae: Scars without Wounds

SUMMARY

Striae distensae, or stretch marks, are common linear lesions of atrophic skin characterized histologically by epidermal atrophy, absent rete ridges, and alterations in connective tissue architecture. Hormonal excess, mechanical stress, and genetic predisposition are all associated with striae distensae, but their exact pathogenesis remains unknown. Despite a multitude of options, no single treatment has yet proven effective. In this article, the authors describe an up-to-date overview of striae distensae in terms of their etiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutic options. Further research is required to better elucidate their pathophysiology and to develop targeted effective treatments.

Tissue Modification in Nonsurgical Facelift Options

Nonsurgical facelifts are a term for a heterogeneous group of procedures used by physicians to improve facial rejuvenation without the use of operative techniques. Patients demand these services due to the reduced recovery time and generally lower risk. However, nonsurgical techniques, to be effective, must induce conformational change in the cells and tissues of the face. Therefore, these techniques are significant procedures that have associated risks. Understanding the tissue modifications and mechanisms of action of these techniques is vital to their safe and effective use. The purpose of this article is to provide a background of tissue modification in nonsurgical facelift options.

Pre-/postprocedure measures for minimally invasive, nonenergy aesthetic treatments: A survey

BACKGROUND

Non-energy based devices used in aesthetic medicine include treatments such as microdermabrasion, microneedling, threads, and chemical peels. Practitioners may use these devices to address signs of facial photo- and chronological aging (fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentary, and skin textural changes). Currently, consensus papers or guidelines are lacking in peri-procedural measures or their potential role in the prevention or treatment of adverse events in non-energy based aesthetic procedures.

AIMS

To explore current practices using non-energy devices, a survey was developed to identify trends in peri-procedure treatment measures.

PATIENTS/METHODS

The survey was sent electronically to 2000 dermatologists and 388 plastic surgeons. Randomly selected sites included those practicing medical aesthetics using non-energy devices for facial rejuvenation. The survey gathered information related to practitioner demographics, types of devices used, and peri-procedural measures for non-energy device-based treatments.

RESULTS

The survey was active from February to May 2019. Nine hundred and twenty clinicians opened the survey, and 109 surveys were completed, providing a total response rate of 11.8%. The results revealed inconsistencies with regards to skin preparation strategies and post-procedure care. While the majority of clinicians indicated a need for topical treatments to reduce inflammation, prevent scarring, and shorten time to healing, a standard of care was not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this survey confirm a lack of standardized measures for peri-procedural care when using non-energy based devices for aesthetic medicine treatments. These findings emphasize the need for evidence-based recommendations for optimizing patient outcomes, reducing and managing adverse events, and shortening time to healing.

Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery: From Simple Potions to Smart Technologies

This overview on skin delivery considers the evolution of the principles of percutaneous ab-sorption and skin products from ancient times to today. Over the ages, it has been recognised that products may be applied to the skin for either local or systemic effects. As our understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the skin has improved, this has facilitated the development of technologies to effectively and quantitatively deliver solutes across this barrier to specific target sites in the skin and beyond. We focus on these technologies and their role in skin delivery today and in the future.

Photodynamic therapy for skin cancer: How to enhance drug penetration?

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) induced by protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) has been widely used in dermatological practices such as treatment of skin cancers. Clearance rate depends on different factors such as light irradiation, skin oxygenation and drug penetration. The poor penetration of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) with topical application is limited and restrains the production of PpIX which could restrict PDT outcomes. This review will focus on techniques already used to enhance drug penetration in human skin, and will present their results, advantages, and drawbacks. Chemical and physical pretreatments will be discussed. Chemical pre-treatments comprise of drug formulation modification, use of agents that modify the heme cycle, enhance PpIX formation, and the combination of differentiation-promoting agent prior to PDT. On the other hand, physical pretreatments affect the skin barrier by creating holes in the skin or by removing stratum corneum. To promote drug penetration, iontophoresis and temperature modulation are interesting alternative methods. Cellular mechanisms enrolled during chemical or physical pretreatments have been investigated in order to understand how 5-ALA penetrates the skin, why it is preferentially metabolized in PpIX in tumour cells, and how it could be accumulated in deeper skin layers. The objective of this review is to compare clinical trials that use innovative technology to conventional PDT treatment. Most of these pretreatments present good or even better clinical outcomes than usual PDT.

The assessment of the effects of the combination of microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling in the therapy of seborrhoeic skin with visible symptoms of acne punctata

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess objectively the effects of the combination of corundum microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling in the therapy of seborrheic skin with visible symptoms of acne punctata. Material and methods: The study involved a group of nine women. A series of six treatments with the combination of microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling were performed within facial skin at 10-14 days intervals. Corneometric measurements examining skin hydration level and sebumetric measurements analyzing skin sebum level were made before the series of treatments and after second, fourth and sixth procedure in five facial areas. Clinical assessment of the efficacy of the therapy was performed on the basis of photographic documentation (Fotomedicus). Anonymous questionnaires were used in order to evaluate patients' satisfaction rate. Results: Statistically significant improvement in skin sebum level was observed in all examined areas (forehead p = 0.002; nose p = 0.001, chin p = 0.01, left cheek p = 0.009, right cheek p = 0.007). In case of skin hydration, significant improvement was found only in the area of chin (p = 0.03). 78% of participants estimated that the improvement was in the range of 55-70%, while 22% of participants of 75-100%. The reduction in the amount and visibility of comedones and pimples were demonstrated on the basis of questionnaire and photographic documentation. Conclusions: Combined microdermabrasion and cavitation peeling treatments improve the condition of seborrheic skin.

Emerging Therapies for Acne Vulgaris

As we gain a greater understanding of acne pathogenesis, both new agents as well as new uses for established drugs are being considered for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Multiple clinical trials assessing new formulations or combinations of established acne treatments have been conducted, and novel uses of antimicrobials such as modified diallyl disulfide oxide and nitric oxide are being assessed in clinical trials. There are also a multitude of new therapies currently being studied that target the inflammatory cascade of acne pathogenesis, including sebosuppressive and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, and  small molecule inhibitors targeting sebaceous glands and enzymes, among others. Laser and light therapy is also being modified for the treatment of acne through combination methods with metal nanoshells and vacuum assistance. Probiotics have gained popularity in medicine as greater knowledge of the microbiome and its effects on multiple organ systems is being elucidated. Studies describing the positive effects of certain ammonia-oxidizing bacterial strains in the regulation of the skin's inflammatory response are ongoing. Therapies for acne are constantly evolving and current gold-standard acne therapy may be supplemented with novel treatment modalities in the near future.

A review of diagnosis and treatment of acne in adult female patients

This review focuses on the treatment options for adult female patients with acne. Acne in adult female patients may start during adolescence and persist or have an onset in adulthood. Acne has various psychosocial effects that impact patients’ quality of life. Treatment of acne in adult women specifically has its challenges due to the considerations of patient preferences, pregnancy, and lactation. Treatments vary widely and treatment should be tailored specifically for each individual woman. We review conventional therapies with high levels of evidence, additional treatments with support from cohort studies and case reports, complementary and/or alternative therapies, and new agents under development for the treatment of patients with acne.

The Effectiveness of a 5% Retinoic Acid Peel Combined with Microdermabrasion for Facial Photoaging: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Background. Tretinoin has been shown to improve photoaged skin. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a 5% retinoic acid peel combined with microdermabrasion for facial photoaging. Materials and Methods. Forty-five patients, aged 35–70, affected by moderate-to-severe photodamage were enrolled in this trial. All patients received 3 sessions of full facial microdermabrasion and 3 sessions of either 5% retinoic acid peel or placebo after the microdermabrasion. Efficacy was measured using the Glogau scale. Patients were assessed at 2 weeks and 1, 2, and 6 months after treatment initiation. Results. The mean ± SD age of participants was 49.55 ± 11.61 years, and the majorities (73.3%) were female. Between 1 month and 2 months, participants reported slight but statistically significant improvements for all parameters (P < 0.001). In terms of adverse effects, there were statistically significant differences reported between the 5% retinoic acid peel groups and the control group (P < 0.001). The majority of adverse effects reported in the study were described as mild and transient. Conclusion. This study demonstrated that 5% retinoic acid peel cream combined with microdermabrasion was safe and effective in the treatment of photoaging in the Iranian population. This trial is registered with IRCT2015121112782N8.

Retinoids: Literature Review and Suggested Algorithm for Use Prior to Facial Resurfacing Procedures

Vitamin A-containing products have been used topically since the early 1940s to treat various skin conditions. To date, there are four generations of retinoids, a family of Vitamin A-containing compounds. Tretinoin, all-trans-retinoic acid, is a first-generation, naturally occurring, retinoid. It is available, commercially, as a gel or cream. The authors conducted a complete review of all studies, clinical- and basic science-based studies, within the literature involving tretinoin treatment recommendations for impending facial procedures. The literature currently lacks definitive recommendations for the use of tretinoin-containing products prior to undergoing facial procedures. Tretinoin pretreatment regimens vary greatly in terms of the strength of retinoid used, the length of the pre-procedure treatment, and the ideal time to stop treatment before the procedure. Based on the current literature and personal experience, the authors set forth a set of guidelines for the use of tretinoin prior to various facial procedures.

Optimizing Non-Antibiotic Treatments for Patients with Acne: A Review

Acne is a very common non-infectious skin condition that is frequently treated in dermatological practices. Because acne is often chronic and may persist for years, safe and effective long-term maintenance therapy is often required. Given the increasing frequency of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the gravity of the consequences of this trend, it behooves dermatologists to maximize use of non-antimicrobial therapy when treating acne. In this review of the literature we present data regarding the efficacy and appropriate use of non-antimicrobial treatments for acne. A variety of topical and oral treatment options exist that can be used in a step-wise manner according to the patients’ severity and therapeutic response. Non-antimicrobial treatments can be highly efficacious at controlling acne, especially when used as maintenance therapy. While antibiotics have a role in acne treatment, they should not be used as monotherapy, and lengthy courses of antibiotic use are discouraged.

Noninvasive Facial Rejuvenation. Part 3: Physician-Directed-Lasers, Chemical Peels, and Other Noninvasive Modalities

A proper knowledge of noninvasive facial rejuvenation is integral to the practice of a cosmetic surgeon. Noninvasive facial rejuvenation can be divided into patient- versus physician-directed modalities. Patient-directed facial rejuvenation combines the use of facial products such as sunscreen, moisturizers, retinoids, α-hydroxy acids, and various antioxidants to both maintain youthful skin and rejuvenate damaged skin. Physicians may recommend and often prescribe certain products, but patients are in control with this type of facial rejuvenation. On the other hand, physician-directed facial rejuvenation entails modalities that require direct physician involvement, such as neuromodulators, filler injections, laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels. With the successful integration of each of these modalities, a complete facial regimen can be established and patient satisfaction can be maximized. This article is the last in a three-part series describing noninvasive facial rejuvenation. Here the authors review the mechanism, indications, and possible complications of lasers, chemical peels, and other commonly used noninvasive modalities.

Surgical scar revision: an overview

Scar formation is an inevitable consequence of wound healing from either a traumatic or a surgical intervention. The aesthetic appearance of a scar is the most important criteria to judge the surgical outcome. An understanding of the anatomy and wound healing along with experience, meticulous planning and technique can reduce complications and improve the surgical outcome. Scar revision does not erase a scar but helps to make it less noticeable and more acceptable. Both surgical and non-surgical techniques, used either alone or in combination can be used for revising a scar. In planning a scar revision surgeon should decide on when to act and the type of technique to use for scar revision to get an aesthetically pleasing outcome. This review article provides overview of methods applied for facial scar revision. This predominantly covers surgical methods.

Exploration of nonsurgical scar modification options: can the irregular surface of matured mesh graft scars be smoothed with microdermabrasion?

The purpose of this study was to determine, in principle, whether microdermabrasion can alter waffle-pattern (meshed split-thickness skin graft) burn scars after scar maturation. Matured waffle-pattern mesh-graft scars were treated with multiple microdermabrasion sessions over the course of a year (maximum 20). Before and after treatment, the treated scars and the control scar on the same patient were assessed with subjective and objective scar assessment tools (scar scales, cutometer [elasticity], laser Doppler flowmeter [vascularity], Semmes-Weinstein filaments [sensation], and high-resolution ultrasound [thickness]). The treatment resulted in continuous improvement of some physiologic skin functions like perfusion response (feedback), thickness, and elasticity when compared with nontreated scar, although no statistical significance was reached. Both Vancouver scar scale and patient assessment scales showed significant improvement. The study showed that even mature waffle pattern scars can be modified by minimally invasive interventions. Larger study groups and more economic treatment modalities need to be studied in the future.

Bioactive reagents used in mesotherapy for skin rejuvenation in vivo induce diverse physiological processes in human skin fibroblasts in vitro- a pilot study

The promise of mesotherapy is maintenance and/or recovery of a youthful skin with a firm, bright and moisturized texture. Currently applied medications employ microinjections of hyaluronic acid, vitamins, minerals and amino acids into the superficial layer of the skin. However, the molecular and cellular processes underlying mesotherapy are still elusive. Here we analysed the effect of five distinct medication formulas on pivotal parameters involved in skin ageing, that is collagen expression, cell proliferation and morphological changes using normal human skin fibroblast cultures in vitro. Whereas in the presence of hyaluronic acid, NCTF135(®) and NCTF135HA(®) , cell proliferation was comparable to control cultures; however, with higher expression of collagen type-1, matrix metalloproteinase-1 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1, addition of Soluvit(®) N and Meso-BK led to apoptosis and/or necrosis of human fibroblasts. The data indicate that bioactive reagents currently applied for skin rejuvenation elicit strikingly divergent physiological processes in human skin fibroblast in vitro.

Applications of nanotechnology in dermatology

What are nanoparticles and why are they important in dermatology? These questions are addressed by highlighting recent developments in the nanotechnology field that have increased the potential for intentional and unintentional nanoparticle skin exposure. The role of environmental factors in the interaction of nanoparticles with skin and the potential mechanisms by which nanoparticles may influence skin response to environmental factors are discussed. Trends emerging from recent literature suggest that the positive benefit of engineered nanoparticles for use in cosmetics and as tools for understanding skin biology and curing skin disease outweigh potential toxicity concerns. Discoveries reported in this journal are highlighted. This review begins with a general introduction to the field of nanotechnology and nanomedicine. This is followed by a discussion of the current state of understanding of nanoparticle skin penetration and their use in three therapeutic applications. Challenges that must be overcome to derive clinical benefit from the application of nanotechnology to skin are discussed last, providing perspective on the significant opportunity that exists for future studies in investigative dermatology.