Derm Topics

Pathogenesis & Clinical Features of Photodamage: What Clinicians Should Know

There’s more to aging skin than photodamage, explains Dr. Zoe D. Draelos, president of Dermatology Consulting Services. In an interview with Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with Pigmentary Disorders Exchange Symposium, Dr. Draelos explains the latest understanding in the pathogenesis and clinical features of aging skin, including photodamage. Learn how the exposome leads to signs of aging and how the plant world can help. Plus find out the scientific basis behind differences in aging among different Fitzpatrick skin types. 

Further Reading

If you want to read more about photodamage and photoaging, check out the following articles published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology:

Updates on the Molecular Basis of Photoaging in All Skin Types

ABSTRACT
Photoaging is a complex, ongoing process that clinically manifests as cutaneous rhytides, atrophy, laxity, dyspigmentation, telangiectasias, roughness, and mottled appearance of the skin. There is an abundance of research establishing the mechanism of ultraviolet (UV)-induced photodamage as it is a significant source of photoaging and skin cancers. While UV damage is known to induce photoaging, it is important to understand how other forms of light radiation also contribute to this process. UV only constitutes 5 to 10% of solar radiation that reaches the earth’s surface. The remaining nearly 90% is evenly split between infrared and visible light radiation. Early research shows that varied skin types may elicit different photobiologic responses to light. This article presents the mechanisms and biomarkers of photodamage induced by light from across the spectrum, including UV, visible light, and infrared to better prevent and reverse the damage of photoaging in all skin types.

The Importance of Photoaging Prevention in All Skin Types: An Update on Current Advancements

ABSTRACT

Light from across the electromagnetic spectrum, including ultraviolet, visible, and infrared light, can cause detrimental cutaneous effects including photocarcinogenesis and photoaging. Traditional and broad-spectrum sunscreens offer protection against ultraviolet radiation. However, visible and infrared light may not always be covered by traditional sunscreens. These forms of solar radiation have been shown to cause photodamage and may have particular importance in the effects induced in skin of color. This article aims to review the mechanisms of photoaging from various light forms, the implications of these damaging effects on skin of color, and innovative approaches that can advance the way patients practice photoprotection. We will expand upon the latest innovations in photoprotection that hold the potential to increase patient adherence and improve skin health across all skin types.

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