Innovative non-invasive techniques in skin pharmaceutics as valid complements in cosmetic dermatology practice

ABSTRACT

Non-invasive tools for measuring various skin parameters are widely used as research tools in the area of skin pharmaceutics to evaluate the cutaneous effects of topically applied skin care products. They provide objective and quantitative data of various skin attributes as compared with subjective clinical grading and allow detection of differences that are not apparent to the eye. On the other hand, typical dermatological practice is based on the skills and trained eyes of dermatologists to evaluate the skin conditions of patients and their response to various treatments. This study aims at showing the feasibility of using three non-invasive instruments as complementary tools in dermatology practice to evaluate and monitor quantitatively relevant cutaneous treatment effects. Mexameter[registered sign], Corneometer[registered sign], and Tewameter [registered sign] were used to evaluate quantitatively the degree of pigmentation, hydration, and barrier integrity, respectively, at baseline and 1, 7, 14, and 30 days after one session of superficial TCA peel treatment of melasma on the face of a female patient. The results show the ability of these devices to aid the dermatologist in quantifying and comparing the changes in skin attributes over time