THE STATE OF AESTHETIC DERMATOLOGY

Dec
2014
Vol. 33. No. 4

Introduction

It is my pleasure and great honor to serve as the guest editor for this issue of Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, aptly titled “The State of Aesthetic Dermatology.” December not only marks the end of the year, it provides a time for reflection on the months past and prompts us to prepare for the endeavors of the New Year to come. It is my hope that this December issue supplies a framework for a judicious review of the current status and future of aesthetic dermatology. The goal of the following contributions is to highlight the key “hot topics” of cosmetic dermatology (picosecond technology, men’s aesthetics, laser-assisted drug delivery, etc.) while offering a critical take on current research and future evidence based applications. The success of this issue is entirely the result of the dedicated contributors who have humbly shared their expertise and I thank them all for their commitment to the advancement of our field. The state of aesthetic dermatology is an ever-changing and dynamic landscape in which we make evaluations, offer treatment, and conduct research. These changes are a result of shared best practices, continued education and ongoing research. Staying abreast of new and innovative research is paramount to providing excellent patient care, which is why we endeavored to present concise and clinically useful papers in this issue centered on updates in varied aesthetic topics. Critical topics in cosmetic dermatology are explored, ranging from updates on the utilization of soft tissue fillers and botulinum toxin to advancements in picosecond technology. Evolving and novel concepts such as the utilization of lasers for the treatment of scarring, laser-assisted drug delivery, and noninvasive skin tightening are also thoroughly and concisely reviewed. Evolving and novel concepts such as the utilization of lasers for the treatment of scarring, laser-assisted drug delivery, noninvasive skin tightening, men’s aesthetics, and home-use devices are also thoroughly and concisely reviewed. My hope is that you find this issue a valuable reference in navigating the ever-changing tides of aesthetic dermatology. As you read the following articles, written by experts in the field, I hope you are inspired to critically evaluate and question new procedures, technologies, and concepts. In the process, you will rekindle self-reflection on personal practices and the pursuit of continued education, thus, allowing for enhanced growth as a clinician, provider, and researcher.

The evolution of laser surgery for acne and other scarring processes

Laurel M Morton, MD
The treatment of acne scars is an important part of a laser specialist’s practice. For the last 20 years, the technology available for this application has progressed from nonablative to ablative and eventually to fractional lasers that are effective for a range of scar types. Although patients with mild-to-severe acne scarring have long been good laser candidates, we are beginning to understand the use of lasers for severe traumatic scars which can be disfiguring and functionally limiting in nature.
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Update on botulinum neurotoxin use in aesthetic dermatology

Emily C Keller, MD | Kenneth A Arndt, MD | Omer Ibrahim, MD
Botulinum toxins are among the most widely studied and versatile drugs in the medicinal market. Since their extraction from Clostridium botulinum, they have been harnessed and incorporated into different formulations with varied properties and actions. These products have been used to treat countless disorders such as musculoskeletal disorders, headaches, and eye disorders, among many others. In the realm of aesthetic cutaneous medicine, the evolution and creativity in the use of botulinum toxins has been swift and ever changing. Knowledge of the science and innovation behind this toxin enables the user to provide the patient with a variety of treatment options founded in evidence-based medicine. This review will highlight the properties and actions of the newer, more recent neurotoxin preparations, as well as some of the latest and novel therapeutic applications of botulinum toxins. Semin Cutan Med Surg 33:152-156 © 2014 Frontline Medical Communications
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Updates in noninvasive and minimally invasive skin tightening

Deanne M Robinson, MD | Rachel N Pritzker, MD
The demand for noninvasive and minimally invasive skin-tightening procedures is rising within the aesthetic world. Although these treatments will not replace surgery, a growing patient population is seeking results through low-risk procedures with associated minimal downtime. The technology within this realm is changing due to an increased ability to safely deliver energy to deeper tissue planes. Within the last year alone, research has led to the introduction of a subdermal radiofrequency device, advancements in minimally invasive lasers, and the use of microfocused ultrasound targeting the facial tissue. Through research studies, protocols are being optimized and clinical results are becoming more reliable. Semin Cutan Med Surg 33:182-187 © 2014 Frontline Medical Communications
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