Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with Skin of Color Update, interviewed Dr. Cheryl Burgess, medical director of the Center for Dermatology in Washington, D.C., and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. Dr. Burgess explains the filler complications that are more common in patients with skin of color, and the questions you should ask before you inject fillers into these patients. Vitamin and supplement intake matter. So does a glass of wine. Watch and learn how to predict what could happen so that you can forewarn your patients and have happier outcomes.
Further Reading
If you want to read more about dermal fillers in patients with skin of color, check out the following articles published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology:
ABSTRACT
Background: Cosmetic procedures with lasers, nonenergy devices, and injectables are increasing in popularity among patients with skin of color. Published algorithms address measures to reduce side effects related to aesthetic procedures; however, none focus on reducing adverse events in skin of color.
Methods: An expert panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons conducted face-to-face and online meetings to develop an algorithm for measures before, during, and after using aesthetic devices (energy and nonenergy-based) and injectable treatments based on the best available evidence for skin of color. Published algorithms and literature searches for aesthetic procedures provided guidance for the current algorithm. A modified Delphi method was used to reach a consensus to apply outcomes of literature searches, along with expert opinion, resulting in the current algorithm.
Results: The four sections of the algorithm outline an approach to optimize outcomes with specific before, during, and after procedure considerations. Pre-procedural consultation includes the development of a specific treatment plan based on individual patient goals and risk profile (including history and signs that may predict a higher risk for pigmentary or scarring complications). Before the procedure, sun avoidance and sunscreen use are emphasized; herpes simplex virus 1 prophylaxis and bleaching agents are administered if indicated. During the procedure, skin cleansing products are addressed, along with judicious techniques to minimize unintended cutaneous injury or inflammation. Post-procedural sunscreen and gentle skincare that may include skin-lightening agents or formulations designed to prevent infection and promote optimum healing are advised.
Conclusions: The algorithm strives to optimize treatment outcomes for patients with skin of color by providing their physicians with guidance on measures before, during, and after office-based medical aesthetic procedures.
Understanding the Female African American Facial Aesthetic Patient
ABSTRACT
Background: The patient populations seeking facial aesthetic treatments is expanding in terms of racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. While treatment of facial aging patterns among white women is well-documented, far less information describes the aesthetic needs of the African American patient.
Objective: An online study was conducted to survey facial aesthetic concerns and treatment priorities among US-based population of African American women.
Materials and Methods: A total of 401 female African American participants ages 30 to 65 years reported their attitudes toward facial aging, current facial conditions, most bothersome facial areas and areas most/least likely to be treated first, awareness of treatment options and their consideration rates, and motives and barriers factoring into consideration of injectable treatments.
Results: Uneven skin tone/color (57%) and dark circles under the eyes (48%) were the most frequently-reported facial concerns. Other common bothersome facial areas affected by signs of aging were the submental area, periorbital area, forehead lines, and chin. Similarly, areas given greater priority with respect to future treatment included the periorbital area, submental area, and forehead lines. With advancing age, priorities heightened for the mid and lower facial areas, which included the nasolabial folds, chin, and oral commissures. Although the majority of participants would consider injectables, cost, and safety/side effects were cited as frequent concerns.
Conclusion: For African American women, concerns about facial aging may be less about fine lines and wrinkles caused by increasing skin laxity, and more about pigmentary concerns and shifts in underlying soft tissue volume.
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