Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41822993
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BACKGROUND: Skin colour is a prominent human trait historically used to define ethnicity, yet its validity as a classification tool remains questionable. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We quantitatively analyse over 14 000 skin...BACKGROUND: Skin colour is a prominent human trait historically used to define ethnicity, yet its validity as a classification tool remains questionable. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We quantitatively analyse over 14 000 skin reflectance measurements from eight ethnically diverse groups in the International Skin Spectra Archive (ISSA), using a standard colour space designed to model human visual perception. We assess intragroup variation and intergroup overlap through two complementary approaches: individual-level perceptual differences and group-level shared gamut volumes. RESULTS: Results show that within-group variability in chromaticity and lightness frequently exceeds between-group differences. At the individual level, 89.4% (95% CI: 81.5%-91.9%) of samples have perceptually indistinguishable counterparts across ethnicities. At the group level, the median shared gamut overlap is 60.5% (95% CI: 54.5%-63.6%), indicating substantial overlap in skin colour distributions. The two methods correlate strongly (r = 0.83, p < 0.001), confirming robust intergroup overlap. CONCLUSION: Skin colour exhibits high within-group dispersion and extensive between-group overlap. These findings challenge the use of skin colour as a reliable indicator of ethnicity and underscore the need for objective, data-driven classification frameworks. They also highlight the complex, continuous nature of human skin variation, beyond simplistic ethnic categories.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41815037
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BACKGROUND: The established method in primary care to distinguish skin cancer from benign lesions is clinical examination, with or without dermoscopy. The experience among primary care physicians in assessing skin tumour...BACKGROUND: The established method in primary care to distinguish skin cancer from benign lesions is clinical examination, with or without dermoscopy. The experience among primary care physicians in assessing skin tumours varies, as does the accessibility to teledermoscopy. To enhance diagnostic performance, improved methods for skin tumour assessment are warranted. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of a non-invasive method that combines near-infrared spectroscopy with skin impedance measurement (NIRIMP) to detect skin cancer in primary care. MATERIAL AND METHODS: NIRIMP measurements were collected prospectively from patients seeking primary care for skin lesion examination. The measurements were compared to the true lesion diagnosis using several machine learning methods, to determine the best machine learning methods to use and to determine the diagnostic performance of NIRIMP in distinguishing skin cancer from benign lesions. RESULTS: Eighty participants with 109 lesions were included. Among these, 50 skin cancers or in situ cancers were detected: eight melanomas/in situ melanomas, four in situ squamous cell carcinomas, and 38 basal cell carcinomas. The ability of NIRIMP to distinguish any skin cancer/in situ cancer, as illustrated by the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC), was 0.776 and for melanomas/in situ melanomas alone the AUC was 0.911. When detecting any skin cancer, the AUC was slightly higher for NIR alone (0.826) compared to NIRIMP (0.776), whereas for IMP alone it was slightly lower (0.693). CONCLUSIONS: Near infrared spectroscopy appears to be a promising bioengineering technique to detect skin cancer in primary care settings, of potential benefit for future skin lesion assessment. However, there was no compelling evidence supporting the benefit of adding skin impedance to improve diagnostic performance.
Deda A, Odrzywołek W, Lebiedowska A
… +6 more, Banyś A, Bożek M, Kuca D, Wiśniewska N, Wcisło-Dziadecka D, Wilczyński S
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41729119
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BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the biophysical and biomechanical effects of topical stabilized retinaldehyde (RAL) treatments on skin, using different concentrations of retinal (0.05% and 0.1%). MATERI...BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the biophysical and biomechanical effects of topical stabilized retinaldehyde (RAL) treatments on skin, using different concentrations of retinal (0.05% and 0.1%). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Employing a split-face design and noninvasive methods such as high-frequency ultrasonography, the Antera 3D camera, and the Cutometer, the effectiveness of these preparations was assessed among 56 women aged 30-58 years. RESULTS: The application of topical stabilized RAL resulted in statistically significant improvements in skin parameters. High-frequency ultrasonography revealed increased dermal density across all facial regions after 24 weeks, while Cutometer measurements showed enhanced skin elasticity and viscoelasticity. Antera 3D imaging demonstrated significant reductions in wrinkle parameters, particularly with the higher concentration (0.1%) of RAL. The treatments were generally well-tolerated, with minimal adverse effects reported, highlighting their suitability for sensitive skin. CONCLUSION: Results indicated significant improvements in skin texture and firmness, particularly with the higher 0.1% concentration of RAL over 24-week period, making it a promising option for long-term skin rejuvenation therapy.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41705408
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BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence, including large language models (LLMs) such as GPT-4, can generate responses to clinical queries using predictive algorithms trained on large online datasets. Current literature lacks...BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence, including large language models (LLMs) such as GPT-4, can generate responses to clinical queries using predictive algorithms trained on large online datasets. Current literature lacks a comprehensive assessment of the medical quality and accuracy of dermatologic GPT-4-generated outputs. METHODS: A standardized query was used to ask GPT-4 models (Copilot and ChatGPT-4) to generate summaries and treatment recommendations for 33 dermatologic conditions, which were then compared to corresponding sections of UpToDate (UTD) excerpts. DISCERN scores were calculated for each source by two authors (AN and PV). Concordance between GPT-4-generated treatments and UTD was evaluated by a certified dermatologist. Word count and Flesch Kincaid reading score were generated in R. Paired t-tests and one-way and weighted ANOVA were conducted in R. RESULTS: The DISCERN instrument classified UTD content as being of "fair" medical quality (mean [SD], 3.08 [0.34]), while both ChatGPT-4 and Copilot produced content of "poor" medical quality (mean [SD], 2.28 [0.22] and mean [SD], 2.31 [0.35], respectively). ChatGPT-4's treatment recommendations demonstrated 33.5% greater average concordance with UTD treatment recommendations (mean [SD], 64.89% [29.29]), in comparison to Copilot (mean [SD], 31.38% [31.08%]); (95% CI, 22.3%-44.7%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, GPT-4 models produced dermatological content with few harmful recommendations. However, GPT-4-generated content performed poorly on the DISCERN instrument, and validation of LLM-generated responses remains challenging. Results suggest LLM parameters and query structures may be optimizable for dermatologic applications. If implemented alongside the professional judgement of certified dermatologists, future LLMs may serve as time-saving dermatologic tools, enhancing patient care.
Esmaeili S, Rahmati M, Salehi M
… +2 more, Yahaya BH, Zamani S
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41574389
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BACKGROUND: Bridging ancient herbal wisdom with modern biomaterial innovation, this study pioneers a smart hydrogel infused with Red Ginseng (RG) (angiogenesis-boosting ginsenosides) and Centella asiatica (collagen-stimu...BACKGROUND: Bridging ancient herbal wisdom with modern biomaterial innovation, this study pioneers a smart hydrogel infused with Red Ginseng (RG) (angiogenesis-boosting ginsenosides) and Centella asiatica (collagen-stimulating asiaticoside), synergized with alginate and upcycled eggshell membrane for unrivaled wound adhesion and eco-conscious design. Unlike conventional hydrogels, this bioactive synergy accelerates tissue regeneration while fighting antibiotic-resistant infections, thus opening up a new era of wound care inspired by nature. METHODS & MATERIALS: Initially, seven distinct hydrogel formulations were generated by blending sodium alginate and eggshell membrane with RG roots and centella asiatica at optimal concentrations. Subsequently, the hydrogels' structural characteristics were assessed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transforms Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. Following structural validation, the study comprehensively evaluated the physical attributes of the hydrogels, encompassing swelling behavior, stability, weight loss, porosity, and antibacterial properties. Biocompatibility of the prepared hydrogels was assessed through hemolytic activity and cell viability analyses. Moreover, the therapeutic efficacy of the hydrogels was examined using a rat model, encompassing RNA expression and histological assessments to elucidate their potential wound-healing attributes. RESULTS: The developed hydrogel exhibited a porous architecture with interconnected cavities conducive to facilitating cell migration. Additionally, the hydrogels demonstrated antibacterial properties, as confirmed by antibacterial assays. MTT analysis revealed a positive impact on cell proliferation, with no observed cellular toxicity. Furthermore, in vivo experiments demonstrated that the hydrogels outperformed the control group, treated with gauze, in accelerating wound closure. Notably, the alginate/eggshell membrane/RG roots/Centella asiatica group exhibited the highest percentages of wound closure, re-epithelialization, and gene expression. CONCLUSION: This hydrogel transcends conventional wound care, harnessing RG's angiogenic magic and centella's collagen-boosting power within a sustainable alginate-eggshell matrix to forge a bioactive bridge between lab bench and bedside. Its triple potential (rapid closure, infection defense, and scar suppression) makes it a promising dressing.
Na Takuathung M, Yaja K, Aisara J
… +8 more, Klinjan P, Anek P, Inpan R, Kantasa T, Chitphan J, Yeerong K, Teekachunhatean S, Koonrungsesomboon N
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41562471
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BACKGROUND: With increasing life expectancy, the aging population, particularly in Asia, is expanding rapidly. Combined with intense year-round ultraviolet exposure, this accelerates skin aging. Male skin also exhibits d...BACKGROUND: With increasing life expectancy, the aging population, particularly in Asia, is expanding rapidly. Combined with intense year-round ultraviolet exposure, this accelerates skin aging. Male skin also exhibits distinct aging characteristics. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Genistein Plus Bakuchiol and Vitamins (GEN) product on male facial skin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in men aged 45-65 years. Participants were assigned to receive either the GEN or placebo (PLA) product in a 1:1 ratio and applied the product twice daily for 12 weeks. Facial skin assessments were performed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12. Evaluated parameters included skin color and consistency, spots, pigmentation, redness, acne, elasticity, hydration, barrier function, and wrinkles. Compliance and satisfaction were also monitored. RESULTS: Eighty male participants were enrolled (GEN: n = 40; PLA: n = 40). After 12 weeks, the GEN group demonstrated significant improvements in cheek skin lightening (MD = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.03 to 1.08, p = 0.04) and color consistency (MD = -0.56, 95% CI: -1.06 to -0.06, p = 0.03), along with a reduction in forehead spots (MD = -0.60, 95% CI: -1.15 to -0.06, p = 0.03). No significant differences were observed in melanin-, erythema-, or acne-related parameters. Skin property parameters did not differ significantly between groups, except for skin roughness. Adverse events were mild and self-resolving. While satisfaction scores did not differ significantly, the GEN group reported higher scores across most domains. CONCLUSION: The GEN product demonstrated promising improvements in male facial skin appearance, including skin lightening, color consistency, and spot reduction. The product was well-tolerated and offered a safe, targeted skincare solution for men. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: TCTR20240312001.
Park JY, Im DJ, Jeon HD
… +6 more, Kim HJ, Rhee DY, Goo BL, Han KH, Chang Z, Kim HS
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41532837
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BACKGROUND: Injectable Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is effective in restoring mid-face volume and is widely used treating the nasolabial fold (NLF). This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of a novel PDLLA based...BACKGROUND: Injectable Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is effective in restoring mid-face volume and is widely used treating the nasolabial fold (NLF). This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of a novel PDLLA based product (PDLLA + non-cross-linked HA; Poly-D, L-lactic acid + hyaluronic acid) with that of a commonly used PLLA for NLF correction. METHODS: In this multi-center, randomized, split-face, evaluator-blinded study, 33 subjects received injections of the PDLLA based product on one NLF and PLLA injection on the other (three injections total, administered at 4-week intervals). Wrinkle severity was assessed using standardized photographs taken at baseline (week 0); before the second and third injections (weeks 4 and 8); 4 weeks after the third injection (week 12); and 3 months after the final injection (week 24) using the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS). Safety data were collected through subject interviews and case report forms. RESULTS: Both the PDLLA based product and PLLA significantly improved NLF wrinkle severity at all time points compared to baseline (p < 0.001). The degree of improvement was comparable between the two products throughout the observation period. CONCLUSION: The PDLLA based product demonstrated non-inferiority to PLLA for NLF correction. Further studies are needed to assess long-term safety.