Expert recommendations on supportive skin care for non‐surgical and surgical procedures

Abstract

A thorough knowledge of non‐surgical procedures (laser, peelings, injections, threads) and surgical procedures (combined surgeries and skin grafts), including contraindications and potential risks and side effects, (e.g. infection, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and scarring) is essential to be able to reduce their incidence and ensure the patient receives the most benefit from the procedure. Individuals with darker skin and of high Fitzpatrick phototype are at higher risk of dyschromias, notably melasma and post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which may be treated using aesthetic procedures but may also arise as a complication of some procedures. A group of experts in cosmetic surgery and dermatology reviewed the published literature and discussed recommendations for optimizing outcomes with practical advice on supportive skincare before, during and after non‐surgical or surgical procedures. A broad‐spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor against UVB and high protection against UVA, especially long UVA, is essential for all treatment modalities for the prevention and potential improvement of pigmentation disorders. Supportive skin care management to prepare, cleanse and protect the skin and post‐procedure skin care with healing and anti‐inflammatory ingredients are recommended to speed up regeneration and wound healing whilst minimizing scarring and downtime. Additionally, adjunctive skin care to procedures with antioxidant, anti‐ageing and lightening properties may enhance skin benefits.

Awareness of sun exposure risks and photoprotection for preventing pigmentary disorders in Asian populations: Survey results from three Asian countries and expert panel recommendations

“…84 Sunscreens with high hydration and skin barrier repair may help prevent PIH. 85 After dermatologic procedures or trauma, opaque dressing is the best option when possible. In other cases, application of broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVB, UVA, and VL/HEV protection is recommended on the treated areas for at least 14 days up to 1 month after inflammation has resolved in order to prevent PIH.…”

The Potential of Grapevine Leaf Extract in Treating Hyperpigmentation

“…As described above, SPF (unitless) plays a pivotal role in protecting the skin against the harmful effects of solar radiation. Moreover, it is essential in developing formulations for treating hyperpigmentation [35,36]. Therefore, we evaluated the SPF levels of all the tested grapevine extracts at a concentration of 1.5 mg/mL, as at higher concentrations, the absorption is above the method's sensitivity (Figure 2).…”

“…Another way to prevent hyperpigmentation is the prevention of UV irradiation damage. Various skincare applications' sun protection factor (SPF) is vital in managing hyperpigmentation [35,36]. The labeled SPF value on sunscreens primarily indicates their protection against UVB radiation, which causes sunburn.…”

A pilot study examining a double‐conjugated, retinoid‐based skincare regimen for darker, blemish‐prone skin

“…Although an estimated 44% of the US population will comprise this diverse and heterogenous group by the year 2030, 5,6 clinical trials in dermatology have historically focused on testing new products in individuals with lighter skin tones (FST I to FST III). However, evidence indicates specific physiologic differences across different skin types can influence response and tolerability 7–9 …”

“…However, evidence indicates specific physiologic differences across different skin types can influence response and tolerability. [7][8][9] Acne and hyperpigmentation are among the most common dermatologic conditions in individuals with skin of color. 2,10 Acne lesions in skin of color have marked inflammation and hyperpigmented epidermal macules with melanin granules.…”