Photoaging and Nonablative Photorejuvenation in Ethnic Skin

Abstract

BACKGROUND. Advances in nonablative skin rejuvenation technologies have sparked a renewed interest in the cosmetic treatment of aging skin. More options exist now than ever before for reversing cutaneous changes caused by long-term exposure to sunlight. Although Caucasian skin is more prone to ultraviolet light injury, ethnic skin (typically classified as types IV to VI) also exhibits characteristic photoaging changes. Widespread belief that inevitable or irreversible textural changes or dyspigmentation occurs following laser-or light-based treatments has been challenged in recent years by new classes of devices capable of protecting the epidermis from injury during treatment. Demographic changes in the US population favor an increasing trend of older, ethnically diverse patients requesting treatment to recapture a youthful appearance.

Lack of correlation between minimal erythema dose and skin phototype in a colombian scholar population

“…Globalization, violence and poverty of less developed countries have all led to an increment in population migration to more developed nations, and ethnic intermarriage. In fact, it has been observed that racial and ethnic minorities accounted for 20% of all cosmetic procedures in 2003 in the United States (11). Therefore, in developed nations, Hispanic's skin‐phototype assessment has lately gained more importance to determine the risks for cosmetic procedures (use of lasers, dermabrasion and deep peelings), photocarcinogenesis, photoaging and photodermatoses, and the indication of photochemotherapy and photoprotection.…”

Laser Treatment of Dark Skin

“…The clinical effect of these red and infrared systems (including pulsed dye, IPL, Nd:YAG, diode, and erbium glass) on a wide range of skin types and conditions has been evaluated. [85][86][87][88] Modest improvement in skin texture (including scars and rhytides) is typically produced after a series of monthly treatments using any one of these devices. Adverse effects are limited to erythema and edema since no open wound is created.…”

LED Low-Level Light Photomodulation for Reversal of Photoaging

“…Various infrared wavelengths with deeper penetration are used for remodeling dermal collagen in all skin types, regardless of pigmentation, and these wavelengths include 1064, 1320, 1450, and 1540 nm [2,3]. Photorejuvenation refers to a process which utilizes light energy sources to reverse or structurally repair sun-induced changes over time.…”