Aesthetic dermatology for aging ethnic skin.

BACKGROUND

Dark-skinned patients manifest the signs of skin aging differently than their fair-skinned counterparts in that the former exhibit more intrinsic facial aging, whereas the later shows more photodamage. Nevertheless, common cosmetic procedures can be used in skin of color to treat the signs of aging.

OBJECTIVE

To provide updated clinical information on the use of cosmetic procedures for skin aging in darker phototypes for the safe treatment of this population.

METHODS

A Medline literature search was performed for publications on the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, chemical peels, laser and light-based devices, and microdermabrasion for the treatment of skin aging specifically in ethnic populations.

RESULTS

Similarly to light-skinned patients, botulinum toxin and dermal fillers provide fast, effective results in skin of color, with fewer complications than with traditional surgery and no downtime. More-invasive procedures, such as chemical peeling, laser resurfacing, and microdermabrasion, can also be effective, but it is important to exercise caution and remain within certain parameters given the greater risk of dyschromias in this population.

CONCLUSION

With the proper knowledge of how to treat aging skin of color, these patients can experience the benefits of cosmetic procedures while minimizing the risks.