INTRODUCTIONSkin is more than 15% of body weight1 and is primarily composed of types I and III collagen. Type I collagen is 80% to 85% of the dermal collagen. Type…

INTRODUCTIONQuality-switching was first demonstrated in 1962 by R. W. Hellwarth.1,2 The quality factor, or Q, of a resonant laser cavity measures its internal energy loss. The higher the Q, the…

INTRODUCTIONAge-dependent modification is at the forefront of dermatological research and cosmetic science.1,2 Besides topical active ingredients and minimally invasive treatments, eg, botulinum toxin or hyaluronic acid, laser devices have expanded…

INTRODUCTIONA distinct trend in aesthetic medicine is the patient's demand for efficient, noninvasive treatments with no downtime. Ongoing with this, these so-called lunchtime procedures are expected to be as safe…

INTRODUCTIONAblative skin resurfacing (ASR) provides significant improvement in reversing signs of cutaneous photoaged skin1-6 but is limited by adverse postoperative sequelae such as extended recovery times, risk of infection, scarring,…

INTRODUCTION Melasma is a complex multifactorial disorder whose pathogenesis is not well understood. In addition to increased superficial and/or deep pigmentation, increased vascularity is often present. Vascular endothelial growth factor…

INTRODUCTIONSebaceous hyperplasia is a common benign proliferation of sebaceous glands. Lesions are characterized by multiple lobules emptying into a large central duct. They normally present as round, yellow, umbilicated papules.1…

INTRODUCTIONTreatment of solar lentigines can be accomplished through several modalities, including the use of cryogen, hyfrecation, and light-based options. Based on the theory of selective photothermolysis,1 quality-switched (QS) lasers have…

INTRODUCTIONFractional laser therapy has become one of the mainstays of laser therapy around the world to treat a myriad of skin care concerns. Clinical evidence-based medicine has shown great success…

INTRODUCTIONThe use of emulsified medical-grade silicone (Silikon®; Alcon Pharmaceuticals, Fort Worth, TX) with crosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) is described. Previous studies have demonstrated the benefits of silicone fillers.1-5 More than…

INTRODUCTIONUltraviolet (UV) radiation generates hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) that may result in damage to DNA, RNA, lipids, and proteins as well as cell death.1-4 Reactive…

INTRODUCTIONPsoriasis is a highly visible skin disease, affecting approximately 2% to 3% of the U.S. population. It causes significant psychological and social distress and impairs health-related quality of life (HRQOL).1-3…