Dark skin type has high propensity to acne scarring and is often complicated by persistent erythema or pigmentation at the base. Fractional lasers are available for the longest period and are able to improve most atrophic acne scars. Often pigmented scar bases and dark skin types limit the use of aggressive laser parameters. Long pulse mode is preferred over short pulse to prevent epidermal damage; low fluence is chosen versus high fluence and low density versus high density. Repeated treatments are needed to minimize complications and optimize results; all these must be achieved through a controlled stage of inflammation. Interventional priming with chemical peels and laser toning before ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser helps to reduce photodamage, recent tan, and pigment at scar base, thus minimizing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Multiple recent literature evidence validates the combinations to optimize outcomes in atrophic acne scars as discussed in this review article.

Background: Correction of nasolabial creases through minimally invasive procedures is increasingly being sought by patients. Injecting non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid filler is a highly effective method to achieve an optimal and persistent cosmetic result. Aims: To evaluate the efficacy, persistence and safety of Restylane and Perlane (Q-Med, Sweden) for correction of nasolabial folds in Indian patients. Materials and Methods: Thirty Indian patients with mild, moderate and severe nasolabial folds (based on Wrinkle Assessment Scale) were recruited in the study after informed consent for correction of their folds with Restylane or Perlane or both. Injections were administered in a single sitting after global assessment of the patient's face using Wrinkle assessment scale (WAS).Optimal filling was performed by using appropriate techniques and its safety and efficacy assessed independently by the investigator as well as by patients at immediately, 3, 6 and 9 months post-procedure. Any adverse reactions were noted. Results: Twenty two females and 8 males (age range 45-55 years, mean age 52 years) were recruited in the study. An optimum cosmetic correction was obtained in all patients. The efficacy increased with time and was greatest at 3 months after the treatment. Grade 2 improvement was maintained at 9 months in mild and moderate folds, and grade 3 improvement for severe folds. Minor post injection side effects like erythema at puncture site, needle marks and bruising were seen. Conclusion: Restylane and Perlane are safe and effective dermal fillers for correction of nasolabial creases and offer immediate effect.

J Cutan Aesthet Surg, official publication of Association of Cutaneous Surgeons of India

Volumetric rejuvenation with fillers is a minimally invasive technique used for facial volume restoration. Volume restoration demands adequate knowledge of fat pads and vascularity of the face and the understanding of the depletion patterns. Volumetric restoration with injectable has witnessed a paradigm shift in the last decade with a global rejuvenation, acquiring a predominant emphasis over focal wrinkle filling to restore the depletion pattern of facial fat layers. The techniques used to achieve optimal restoration of facial volume revolve around zonal lifting and tenting, and the impact of treatment on one zone of the surrounding zones is crucial. A face mapping performed for filler technique has thus evolved, with many experts advocating varied techniques from global restoration to point lifts at key areas, to improve the outcome of filler injections, albeit safely, thus simplifying the process. A systematic approach to various techniques and the point lifts in various zones pertaining to the face structure in the Indian skin are highlighted in this article.

Birth marks, acne scars, wrinkles, pigmentation, etc. Newer avenues and protocols are now set to treat skin conditions with lasers. The applicability of laser for any indication is dependent on laser tissue interaction which is well documented. For a successful outcome with laser therapy, a right end point of treatment should be achieved. The laser physician often adjusts parameters for laser therapy depending on tissue response, the ultimate aim being achieving optimum outcome with minimum side effects. Gadget based skin evaluation techniques are now an integral part of dermatology and are extending to interventional dermatology too. Application of dermoscopy before, during, and after lasers in various indications has been documented and reviewed. The representative cases highlighted in article emphasize the added dimension to non-invasive diagnostic capabilities of a dermatologist by enabling subsurface microscopy and enhancing therapy outcomes, and incorporation of these into daily practice offers value addition to not only evaluation but also gauging response to therapies. Use of dermoscopy before, during, and after laser therapies is an invaluable non-invasive tool to assess the right indication, initiate appropriate priming, achieve good end point, gauge untoward side effects, achieve good results, and engage patient confidentiality. Comparison of high magnification digital images is also enabled by digital videodermoscopy. Structured studies and protocols are needed to standardize the use of dermoscopy integrated with laser procedures....