THE STATE OF AESTHETIC DERMATOLOGY
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.