Our current Author Spotlight features Omar Ibrahimi MD PhD and Catherine Di Giorgio MD, two of the co-authors who ran the clinical trials for the article titled, “A Randomized, Double-Blind, Slit-Face, Clinical Trial of Angiopoietin-1 Derived Peptide Topical Following Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedling,” published in JDD’s September issue. JDD asked the authors some questions in order to provide deeper insight to our readership on the authors behind the article.

1.  In your experience, what is one commonly overlooked factor in diagnosing or managing a specific skin condition that you think deserves more attention?

Ibrahimi: When it comes to a skin procedure, many physicians and patients focus on optimizing the treatment, yet overlook the importance of aftercare, which can be critical to optimizing healing and results. To me, aftercare is an equally important part of planning and executing a treatment and can enhance the patient’s overall experience. 

Di Giorgio: The future of skincare is in the use of research-backed skin care products and laser and energy-based devices to not only address and improve cosmetic concerns, but also to improve overall skin health. 

2. Of all your research findings, are there any surprising or unexpected results that changed your perspective on the topic?

Ibrahimi: The data we gathered on the Kerra+ product was impressive and consistent with the large body of basic science literature that has been accumulated. What surprised me most, however, was how widely loved the product was. Many of our patients not only use Kerra+ post procedure but also incorporate it into their daily skin care routine.

Di Giorgio: Optimizing the aftercare regimen for patients using Kerra+ reduced overall healing time, significantly decreased post-procedure redness, and improved patient satisfaction, with many patients incorporating Kerra+ into their daily skin care regimen. These improvements led to a noticeable increase in patients’ willingness to undergo elective procedures and improve overall skin health. It’s not just about safe and effective recovery support, but a critical factor in patient confidence, satisfaction, and treatment outcomes.

3.  If you could collaborate with any other specialty or field to advance dermatologic research, which would it be and why?

Ibrahimi: I would collaborate with basic scientists who may not specifically be interested in the skin, since many biological pathways that are being studied often may have overlap with dermatology. The cross-disciplinary interactions can spark major breakthroughs in healthcare.