Chen K, Wu JZ, Hu YY
… +6 more, Jiang Q, Xia YX, Chen J, Chen L, Chen LQ, Li DS
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42298918
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BACKGROUND: Noninvasive skin imaging, such as reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), has been extensively used to collect objective clinical data and assess the morphological and ul...BACKGROUND: Noninvasive skin imaging, such as reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), has been extensively used to collect objective clinical data and assess the morphological and ultrastructural change of tissue. However, the application of these noninvasive diagnosis techniques for the therapeutic evaluation of hemoporfin-mediated photodynamic therapy (HMME-PDT) in port-wine stains (PWS) has rarely been reported. OBJECTIVES: To explore the clinical efficacy of HMME-PDT for PWS, and assess the application of RCM and OCT in objective assessment of the efficacy of HMME-PDT. METHODS: Clinical images, RCM findings, and OCT scans were used to evaluate the treatment efficacy. The vascular diameter and density under RCM findings, the vascular density, and depth of OCT scans were used for objective therapeutic evaluation. Skin surface roughness and barrier functions were used to analyze the skin barrier changes. RESULTS: After PDT treatment, the clinical pictures showed excellent improvements, and the RCM findings revealed significantly decreased vascular diameter (100.0 ±2.450 vs. 59.61± 4.021, p<0.05) and density (16.79 ± 0.6568 vs. 10.91 ± 0.8052) in treated areas. Moreover, the OCT scans further confirmed the decrease in vascular density and depth, and the skin surface roughness of Ra (arithmetic mean), Rz (the average depth of roughness), Rq (the mean square roughness) and the skin barrier function of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), and potential of hydrogen (pH) of these treated areas all were significantly changed (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: HMME-PDT is an effective and safe treatment option for PWS patients, and noninvasive diagnosis combined with clinical images are excellent techniques for objectively evaluating efficacy of HMME-PDT.
Traini DO, Palmisano G, Stefani AD
… +4 more, Bocchino E, Guerriero C, Suppa M, Peris K
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42290222
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BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder characterized by multifactorial pathogenesis. In recent years, multiple non-invasive imaging methods have been explored to monitor in vivo acne lesions. Technologies su...BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder characterized by multifactorial pathogenesis. In recent years, multiple non-invasive imaging methods have been explored to monitor in vivo acne lesions. Technologies such as reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) have improved our capabilities to characterize and monitor this condition; nevertheless, limitations remain in resolution and depth. Line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT) is a novel imaging technique that combines the strengths of RCM and OCT, offering high-resolution vertical and horizontal imaging of skin tissue up to 500 µm deep. The aim of this study was to characterize and quantify the microstructural features of different acne lesion morphologies using LC-OCT and to compare these findings with those observed in normal skin. METHODS: A total of 52 facial acne lesions (microcomedones, closed and open comedones, papules, and pustules) from 20 patients with mild-to-moderate acne and 15 healthy controls were imaged using LC-OCT. Vertical, horizontal, and 3D images were analyzed for structural features, with quantitative measurements of lesion diameter and depth. RESULTS: LC-OCT revealed distinct microstructural features at each stage of acne development. Microcomedones showed bright perifollicular rings in 83.3% of cases, absent in healthy skin, indicating early follicular hyper keratinization. Closed comedones appeared as cystic, keratin-filled structures beneath intact epidermis, while open comedones displayed surface discontinuities and mixed reflectivity plugs. Papules and pustules demonstrated perifollicular hyperreflective halos and numerous "bright dots", corresponding to inflammatory cell infiltrates. CONCLUSIONS: LC-OCT provides non-invasive, high-resolution imaging of acne microarchitecture, from subclinical changes in acne-prone skin and incipient microcomedones to inflammatory lesions, offering potential utility in diagnosis, disease monitoring and personalized therapeutic strategies.
Nguyen L, Mess C, Herberger K
… +2 more, Schneider SW, Huck V
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42277626
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BACKGROUND: Multiphoton tomography equipped with fluorescence lifetime imaging (MPT-FLIM) is a novel noninvasive imaging technique for analyzing morphological and metabolic states of skin diseases at a subcellular resolu...BACKGROUND: Multiphoton tomography equipped with fluorescence lifetime imaging (MPT-FLIM) is a novel noninvasive imaging technique for analyzing morphological and metabolic states of skin diseases at a subcellular resolution. The present study is the first to establish MPT-FLIM as an imaging modality to monitor treatment response in psoriasis during topical anti-inflammatory therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with psoriasis treated with topical calcipotriol/ betamethasone dipropionate (C/B) or a calcipotriol derivative (C/-) formulation were recruited and monitored using MPT-FLIM. Imaging was performed at baseline on day 0, and during treatment on days 3 and 28. RESULTS: A total of six patients prescribed C/B, six patients prescribed C/- and four healthy controls were recruited. Characteristic histological features were visualized, including acanthosis, parakeratosis, papillomatosis, and thinning of the granular layer. There was a strong correlation between clinical, multiphoton tomographic, and pathophysiological improvement during treatment. Assessment of subclinical metabolic changes was a predictive parameter for treatment outcome. Detection of fluorescence signals from drug components allowed for tracking of drug distribution in intra- and intercellular spaces. CONCLUSION: MPT-FLIM proved to be a suitable tool for monitoring treatment response in psoriasis patients and tracking drug delivery. It could be a potential method for monitoring other inflammatory skin diseases during treatment to adjust therapy on an individual level.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Jun · PMID 42246630
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BACKGROUND: Functional cosmetic materials with anti-aging properties, such as wrinkle reduction, often struggle to penetrate the skin's stratum corneum (skin barrier). Therefore, to exert anti-aging effects, these materi...BACKGROUND: Functional cosmetic materials with anti-aging properties, such as wrinkle reduction, often struggle to penetrate the skin's stratum corneum (skin barrier). Therefore, to exert anti-aging effects, these materials must pass through the skin barrier and reach fibroblasts in the dermal layer. In this study, deformable liposomes were developed for efficient transdermal delivery of retinol, a well-known anti-wrinkle agent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five formulations (ML-1 to ML-5) were prepared using hydrogenated lecithin (HL) and mannosylerythritol lipid (MEL) as an edge activator with HL:MEL mass ratios of 10:0, 7:3, 5:5, 3:7, and 0:10. Their physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity, encapsulation efficiency and deformability index were analyzed. For the optimal formulation, the liposome morphology was observed using cryo-TEM, and the retinol skin penetration ability of each liposome formulation was evaluated using a Franz diffusion cell. RESULTS: Their physicochemical properties were investigated, and ML-4 with an HL:MEL mass ratio of 3:7 was identified as the optimal formulation for transdermal delivery (particle size 89.3±6.8 nm, zeta potential -25.2±1.1 mV, polydispersity index 0.263±0.012, encapsulation efficiency 86.3±2.3%, and deformability index 5.76±1.9). Cryo-TEM analysis confirmed the liposomal morphology of ML-4. The retinol skin penetration ability of each formulation was evaluated using the Franz diffusion cell, with the conventional liposome (ML-1) without MEL as the control. The ML-4 formulation achieved a total retinol penetration of 29.0%, a 10.6% increase compared to ML-1 (18.4%). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the ML-4 deformable liposome formulation, using MEL as an edge activator, efficiently encapsulates retinol, a wrinkle improvement agent, and improves skin penetration without causing physical damage. These findings suggest that ML-4 can serve as an efficient transdermal delivery system for functional cosmetic materials.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 May · PMID 42175889
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BACKGROUND: Betulin exhibits potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, effectively preventing ultraviolet (UV)- and heat-induced skin aging. Its limited solubility in cosmetic solvents restrict...BACKGROUND: Betulin exhibits potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, effectively preventing ultraviolet (UV)- and heat-induced skin aging. Its limited solubility in cosmetic solvents restricts its application. METHODS: To enhance betulin's applicability, a self-assembled nanocarrier, arginine-caprylate ion pair loaded with betulin (B-ACS), was developed. Structural properties, loading efficiency, skin permeability, and antioxidant activity were assessed. UVB-induced damage was examined in human keratinocytes (HaCaT; n = 3) by measuring inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) via ELISA. Three-dimensional reconstructed human skin models were exposed to UVA (10 J/cm) to evaluate collagen and aquaporin-3 protection. A pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (n = 12, 2 weeks) assessed 3 % (w/w) B-ACS cream on UV- and infrared-induced skin damage. RESULTS: B-ACS showed a particle size of 236.9 ± 10.3 nm, 98.3 ± 1.3 % encapsulation efficacy, and superior reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging (IC50 = 4.87 ppm) compared to free betulin (IC50 = 8.26 ppm). In HaCaT cells, B-ACS significantly reduced UVB-induced inflammatory cytokine and MMP expressions (p < 0.05). In reconstructed skin, it prevented UVA-induced collagen and aquaporin-3 degradation. Clinically, 3% B-ACS cream significantly improved elasticity (1.69-fold), brightness (2.59-fold), and pigmentation (1.91-fold); transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and heat-aging markers decreased 1.39-fold and 1.63-fold versus placebo, respectively (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: B-ACS enhances betulin's solubility and delivery, offering potent efficacy against UV- and heat-induced aging.
Klotz T, Edwards S, Maddern G
… +1 more, Wagstaff M
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 May · PMID 42084189
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BACKGROUND: Measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is widely used to evaluate skin barrier function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study compared two devices-the DermaLab (DL) TEWL probe and the VapoMeter (VM) - f...BACKGROUND: Measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is widely used to evaluate skin barrier function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study compared two devices-the DermaLab (DL) TEWL probe and the VapoMeter (VM) - from data collected across three studies to measure TEWL in scarred and normal skin. Each site was measured three times per device, alternating devices to allow vapor clearance. Inter-device reliability was assessed from 1,617 paired locations, each averaged from the three readings. Intra-observer reliability was able to be determined from a dataset of 1,628 DL and 1,635 VM measurements. RESULTS: Data were stratified into low, medium, and high TEWL ranges based on measurement distribution and observations. Overall inter-device reliability was 'good' but varied by range: 'poor' in low, 'excellent' in medium, and 'moderate' in high TEWL ranges. In the medium range, the VM reported nearly twice the TEWL values compared to the DL, while in the high range, it read approximately 34% higher. CONCLUSIONS: Both devices showed excellent intra-observer reliability overall. However, in the low TEWL range, the DL exhibited 'moderate' reliability, whereas the VM showed slightly better, 'good' reliability. Differences in chamber architecture-semiopen for the DermaLab and closed for the VM-appear to drive the observed variability in measurement reliability across TEWL ranges. Analysis of this large dataset indicates that the VM likely approaches saturation at the categorized 'high' TEWL values, constraining its accuracy, whereas the DermaLab exhibits reduced measurement stability at low TEWL levels, limiting its applicability under those conditions. Targeted methodological work is needed to refine DL performance in the lowTEWL regime and to more precisely define the upper operational limit of the VM.
Hasa Z, Vezzoni R, Chersi F
… +2 more, Giulioni E, Zalaudek I
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42036872
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Nodular basal cell carcinoma (nBCC) of the face can be challenging to diagnose in its early stages. We report our observation of a simple and rapid clinical maneuver that enhances the visualization of arborizing vessels,...Nodular basal cell carcinoma (nBCC) of the face can be challenging to diagnose in its early stages. We report our observation of a simple and rapid clinical maneuver that enhances the visualization of arborizing vessels, erosions, and bleeding, thereby facilitating the identification of nBCC. This preliminary observation suggests that the technique may reduce unnecessary biopsies, preserve cosmetic outcomes, and support timelier patient management.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42021762
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BACKGROUND: Photoaging, primarily induced by prolonged ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, significantly alters skin structure and function, necessitating models for deeper understanding and intervention development. Th...BACKGROUND: Photoaging, primarily induced by prolonged ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, significantly alters skin structure and function, necessitating models for deeper understanding and intervention development. This study aims to establish a BALB/c mouse model for investigating photoaging, leveraging their haired skin and genetic consistency. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six-week-old female BALB/c mice were subjected to repeated exposure to Ultraviolet A (315-400 nm) (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (280-315 nm) (UVB) radiation at doses corresponding to one and two minimal erythemal doses (MEDs), four times weekly for 12 weeks. Skin aging was evaluated through clinical observations of wrinkles, thickness, hydration, and elasticity, as well as histopathological analyses of epidermal and dermal thickness and collagen degradation. Additionally, gene expression was conducted for collagen Types I and III, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 1, 2, and 3. RESULTS: UV-exposed mice exhibited significant increases in skin thickness and wrinkle formation, with concurrent decreases in hydration and elasticity compared to controls. Aging signs were more pronounced in the two MED-group than in the one MED-group. Histological assessment showed epidermal hyperplasia, dermal thickening, and collagen degradation. Furthermore, UV irradiation upregulated MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-3 expression while downregulating Collagen 1 and 3, indicating molecular pathways of skin aging. CONCLUSIONS: The BALB/c mouse model effectively mimics human photoaging under chronic UV exposure using a two-MED protocol, which corresponds to a total dose of 51.8 J/cm UVA and 5.53 J/cm UVB. This practical model, which exhibits skin features comparable to those of humans, provides a closer approximation of human skin responses for comprehensive studies on the mechanisms and interventions of photoaging.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41988846
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INTRODUCTION: Plantar and palmar melanocytic nevi constitute a distinct subtype of nevi, characterized by unique dermoscopic patterns. Currently, limited research has focused on the dermoscopic features of plantar and pa...INTRODUCTION: Plantar and palmar melanocytic nevi constitute a distinct subtype of nevi, characterized by unique dermoscopic patterns. Currently, limited research has focused on the dermoscopic features of plantar and palmar melanocytic nevi in children. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the dermoscopic features of congenital and acquired plantar and palmar melanocytic nevus in children and to evaluate the diagnostic contribution of dermoscopy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 180 pediatric patients initially clinically diagnosed with plantar and palmar nevi. Dermoscopic evaluation was performed using Dermo-II system, followed by histopathological confirmation. RESULTS: Histopathology confirmed 172 plantar and palmar nevi and 8 cases of black heel. The most prevalent dermoscopic patterns were the parallel furrow pattern (54.65%), fibrillar pattern (22.09%), and reticular pattern (10.47%). No significant differences were observed between congenital and acquired nevi. Dermoscopy achieved 100% concordance with histopathology, significantly higher than clinical diagnosis alone (95.56%; p = 0.0075). CONCLUSION: Dermoscopy is a reliable, non-invasive adjunct for diagnosing pediatric plantar and palmar nevi, potentially reducing unnecessary excisions.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41988841
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BACKGROUND: Striae gravidarum is a skin change that occurs during pregnancy, which does not pose a physiological threat to health but can cause psychological distress for individuals. Women may use moisturizers or aromat...BACKGROUND: Striae gravidarum is a skin change that occurs during pregnancy, which does not pose a physiological threat to health but can cause psychological distress for individuals. Women may use moisturizers or aromatherapeutic oils in attempts to prevent the formation of striae. AIM: The purpose of this study is to review the literature on randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of aromatherapy oils in preventing striae gravidarum. METHODS: The protocol for this systematic review and the writing of the article were based on the PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols) criteria. The systematic review was conducted using the Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases between December 2024 and January 2025. Studies were selected by defining inclusion and exclusion criteria according to the PICOS method. RESULTS: This systematic review included four randomized controlled trials with a total of participants. Two of the studies were published in 2024, one in 2022, and the other in 2020. This systematic review included four randomized controlled trials with a total of 671 pregnant participants. The essential oils used in the studies included coconut oil, rose oil, sesame oil, sweet almond oil, and olive oil. The studies found that coconut oil was effective in preventing striae gravidarum, while rose, sesame, and sweet almond oils were not effective. CONCLUSION: There is some evidence for the effect of aromatherapy in preventing striae gravidarum. However, larger sample sizes, higher-quality studies, and randomized controlled trials with blinding methods are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of aromatherapy oils and determine their beneficial effects on pregnant women.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41988834
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BACKGROUND: Human skin harbors a highly diverse and dynamic microbiome that maintains barrier function and homeostasis, while endogenous/exogenous factors and cosmetic products modulate microbial balance. Dysbiosis contr...BACKGROUND: Human skin harbors a highly diverse and dynamic microbiome that maintains barrier function and homeostasis, while endogenous/exogenous factors and cosmetic products modulate microbial balance. Dysbiosis contributes to inflammatory diseases like atopic dermatitis and acne; however, evidence for microbiome-targeted cosmetics remains preliminary. This article critically examines the impact of cosmetic products on the skin microbiota, distinguishing between potentially harmful formulations and those specifically developed to preserve microbial balance, collectively termed "microbiome-friendly" cosmetics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This narrative review synthesizes clinical, microbiological, and mechanistic studies on the skin microbiome's composition, endogenous/exogenous determinants, dysbiosis in skin diseases, and the impact of conventional and microbiome‑targeted cosmetics. Databases were searched up to January 2026 for peer‑reviewed studies, with emphasis on human clinical trials and systematic analyses. RESULTS: Most conventional cosmetics do not induce major dysbiosis in healthy skin when properly formulated. For advanced formulations, including ingredients such as probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and paraprobiotics, early clinical and microbiological studies report promising benefits without compromising microbial diversity. However, evidence is limited by heterogeneous designs, small sample sizes, and the lack of standardized criteria for "microbiome‑friendly" claims. CONCLUSIONS: The evidence indicates that informed cosmetic selection and use of skincare products support microbiome balance as a complementary skin health strategy as may be key for both preventative and therapeutic strategies in managing skin disorders, just as allowing a dynamic understanding of the skin microbiome to improve human health.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41988754
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UNLABELLED: B&G: Plantar warts are common reasons for consultation and present multiple treatments as well as varying results. METHODS: This clinical case demonstrates the step-by-step process for surgical removal of pla...UNLABELLED: B&G: Plantar warts are common reasons for consultation and present multiple treatments as well as varying results. METHODS: This clinical case demonstrates the step-by-step process for surgical removal of plantar warts. RESULTS: Healing times are shorter than with conventional treatments. CONCLUSION: Surgical removal of plantar warts is a first-line treatment.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41987370
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BACKGROUND: Chemical exfoliation efficacy is significantly limited by pH-dependent permeability reduction above the pKa of glycolic acid (3.83), constraining consumer product development. OBJECTIVE: To develop and evalua...BACKGROUND: Chemical exfoliation efficacy is significantly limited by pH-dependent permeability reduction above the pKa of glycolic acid (3.83), constraining consumer product development. OBJECTIVE: To develop and evaluate a biphasic serum utilizing temporary lecithin-glycolate ion-pairing to enhance stratum corneum permeation while maintaining safety at pH 3.9. METHODS: A biphasic formulation containing 10 wt% (weight percent) glycolic acid and 0.1 wt% lecithin was developed. Temporary ion-pairing was characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy. Ex vivo permeation and exfoliation were evaluated using porcine skin models. A 2-week double-blind, split-face clinical study (n = 37) assessed efficacy using instrumental probes (Visioscan, Corneofix, VISIA-CR, and ANTERA 3D) for exfoliation-related parameters and sensitive skin compatibility. RESULTS: FT-IR analysis confirmed lecithin-glycolate bonding via red-shifted C = O peaks, with spectral comparisons before and after shaking demonstrating the reversible nature of the change. The biphasic serum achieved 4.19-fold higher epidermal glycolic acid delivery compared to conventional formulations with minimal deep penetration. Clinical evaluation demonstrated superior exfoliation (45.52% improvement, p < 0.001), enhanced skin brightness, texture, and hydration. Redness and transepidermal water loss, assessed for sensitive skin suitability, showed significant improvements. CONCLUSION: The biphasic system successfully overcomes pH-dependent limitations of glycolic acid through temporary ion-pairing, providing enhanced exfoliation efficacy with a superior safety profile for consumer applications.
Delavar S, Firooz A, Nassiri Kashani M
… +3 more, Ahmad Nasrollahi S, Amiri F, Yazdanparast T
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41972945
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INTRODUCTION: With the increasing demand for personalized skincare, accurate identification of individual skin types has become essential. The Baumann skin type (BST) classification system is widely used in clinical and...INTRODUCTION: With the increasing demand for personalized skincare, accurate identification of individual skin types has become essential. The Baumann skin type (BST) classification system is widely used in clinical and commercial settings, yet lacks sufficient biometric validation. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between BST categories and objective skin biophysical parameters. MATERIALS & METHODS: Seventy-one healthy volunteers participated in the study. Skin parameters including stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), melanin index, sebum levels, elasticity, and pH were measured using the MPA 580 system. Skin thickness and echodensity of the epidermis and dermis were assessed via high-frequency ultrasound (HFU), while depth, area, and volume of the nasolabial folds were analyzed using VisioFace CSI software. Each participant completed the BST questionnaire, and correlations between BST scores and measured skin parameters were assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. RESULTS: The oily vs. dry score was correlated with hydration (r = 0.08, p = 0.507), TEWL (r = -0.065, p = 0.591), and sebum (r = 0.299, p = 0.011). The sensitive vs.resistant score correlated with TEWL (r = 0.388, p = 0.001) and pH (r = 0.445, p < 0.001). The pigmented vs. non-pigmented score correlated with melanin index (r = 0.280, p = 0.018). The wrinkle vs. tight score was correlated with skin firmness (R0; r = 0.495, p< 0.001), total skin elasticity (R2; r = -0.318, p = 0.007), dermal thickness (r = -0.242, p = 0.042), dermal density (r = -0.189, p = 0.115), epidermal thickness (r = -0.128, p = 0.288), nasolabial fold volume (r = 0.138, p = 0.250), surface (r = 0.150, p = 0.213), and depth (r = 0.048, p = 0.690). CONCLUSION: The oily vs. dry (O/D) score showed a poor but significant correlation with sebum, while hydration and TEWL were not significant. The pigmented vs. non-pigmented (P/NP) score demonstrated a poor but significant correlation with the melanin index. The sensitive vs. resistant (S/R) score showed fair and significant correlations with TEWL and pH. The wrinkle-tight (W/T) score showed fair and statistically significant correlations with elasticity parameters (R0 and R2), while correlations with nasolabial fold parameters, dermal density, and epidermal thickness were not significant; dermal thickness showed a poor but statistically significant correlation.
Jin Q, Dong R, Zhi J
… +4 more, Nan M, Pi L, Jin Z, Jin C
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41945421
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BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common acquired pigmentation disorder, with a high incidence rate in women. Owing to the complex pathogenesis of melasma, there is currently no unified treatment. Advanced optimal pulse technolog...BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common acquired pigmentation disorder, with a high incidence rate in women. Owing to the complex pathogenesis of melasma, there is currently no unified treatment. Advanced optimal pulse technology with low energy, three pulses, and long pulse width (AOPT-LTL) is a treatment technique based on the photomodulatory effect of optimal pulse technology (OPT), which has been used in the treatment of sensitive skin and rosacea. AIMS: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of AOPT-LTL for the treatment of melasma. METHODS: Twenty-five Chinese females with melasma were enrolled. AOPT-LTL treatments were delivered at 2-week intervals. The melasma area and severity index (MASI) score, clinician erythema assessment (CEA) score, clinical efficacy, incidence of adverse reactions, and patient satisfaction were compared between baseline and post-treatment. RESULTS: All patients were treated and followed up. After 1 month of treatment, skin inflammation decreased, and pigmentation started to fade. With continued treatment, the inflammation progressively reduced, the affected area became smaller, and pigmentation lightened further. After the first course of treatment, 19 patients had a declined rate of MASI (MDR) >20%, and the effective rate was 76%. At the end of treatment, the MASI score and CEA score of all patients decreased significantly. Moreover, the MDR of all patients was >20%, and the effective rate of treatment was 100%. During treatment, all patients had no obvious adverse reactions, no recurrence after follow-up for 3 months, and patient satisfaction was high. CONCLUSIONS: AOPT-LTL is effective and safe for treating melasma.
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41927510
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BACKGROUND: Acne is a prevalent dermatological disorder that profoundly affects patients' quality of life, frequently resulting in both physical discomfort and psychological distress. Conventional treatments, including t...BACKGROUND: Acne is a prevalent dermatological disorder that profoundly affects patients' quality of life, frequently resulting in both physical discomfort and psychological distress. Conventional treatments, including topical agents, oral medications, and chemical peels, are primarily designed to alleviate symptoms but may be insufficient in effectively addressing persistent acne scars. Recent innovations in therapeutic technologies, such as microneedling radiofrequency (RF) and fractional carbon dioxide (CO) laser, have demonstrated significant potential in enhancing skin regeneration and improving the aesthetic appearance of acne scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Microneedling RF operates by generating mechanical microinjuries in conjunction with RF energy, thereby stimulating dermal remodeling and collagen synthesis. In contrast, fractional CO laser creates precisely controlled microthermal zones that facilitate wound healing and promote the regeneration of new tissue. This review critically examines the clinical efficacy of these two modalities, exploring their individual mechanisms and comparing treatment outcomes. Additionally, the potential synergistic effects of combining these technologies are discussed. RESULTS: Both microneedling RF and fractional CO laser have demonstrated clinical efficacy in treating acne scars. The treatment outcomes, however, may vary depending on patient-specific factors and treatment parameters. The combined use of these modalities is currently under investigation for its potential to enhance therapeutic effects. CONCLUSION: Microneedling RF and fractional CO laser have proven to be effective in improving acne scars, with promising results in skin regeneration and scar appearance. Future research should focus on refining treatment protocols and exploring the synergistic effects of combining these approaches to optimize clinical outcomes.
Zhang T, Wang Y, Xu Y
… +6 more, Liu Y, Zhuang B, Zhang X, Liao C, Liu W, Ma Y
Skin Res Technol
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41853874
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BACKGROUND: Companies launch tons of skin-whitening products to cater to the consumer market. Though skin-whitening cosmeceuticals are continuously developing, most cosmeceuticals are used alone, there is very little aca...BACKGROUND: Companies launch tons of skin-whitening products to cater to the consumer market. Though skin-whitening cosmeceuticals are continuously developing, most cosmeceuticals are used alone, there is very little academic research conducting investigations into the effect of skin-whitening cosmeceutical combinations. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to screen out skin whitening agents and determine their optimal ratio to develop a formula with this combination. Further, to verify the skin whitening efficacy of blue light-induced in in vivo models with or without UV and clinical tests were performed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Molecular docking simulations were used to screen out the best combination of skin whitening agents when combined in different ratios. In vitro tyrosinase activity and melanin content experiments helped to verify the best ratio combination. Clinical trials were also conducted to confirm the skin whitening efficacy on human skin. RESULTS: 4-n-butylresorcinol, licochalcone A, and glabridin exhibited stronger binding affinities to tyrosinase, and the best combination molar ratio is 5:1:1, which could inhibit both tyrosinase activity and melanin content in vitro. Further, the formulation containing this combination showed good skin whitening efficacy and could even prevent UVA and blue light-induced pigmentation. CONCLUSION: The 5:1:1 molar ratio of 4-n-butylresorcinol, licochalcone A, and glabridin was the best ratio that could inhibit both tyrosinase activity and melanin content. The formulation containing this ratio combination can enhance the skin whitening efficacy and also can prevent the UV and blue light induced skin pigmentation.