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RESEARCH ROUNDUP

02 October 2021
Volume 10 · Issue 6

Abstract

In this regular feature, aesthetic nurse Claudia McGloin presents a brief synopsis of a range of recently published articles on medical aesthetics. Research roundup aims to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary and critique, of the papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided at the end of each study summary

One study outlined that milk and chocolate were the two most common foods that aggravated acne

Acne and diet: a review

Acne is one of the most common dermatological skin conditions that affects people under the age of 30 years. Over the years, there have been several studies that have demonstrated that nutrition is a key factor involved in acne pathogenesis.

The aim of this literature review was to summarise the studies that explored the link between acne and diet. The researchers focused particularly on the most frequently discussed factors involved in the condition's pathogenesis: milk, chocolate, omega-3 fatty acids, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinism, and IGF-1.

The results showed that people who eat a high glycaemic index diet have more acne lesions than those with a low glycemic index diet. Milk and chocolate were two of the most common foods found to aggravate acne. The researchers also discovered that foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids suppressed inflammatory cytokines production, with therapeutic effect.

Alterations in mental health and quality of life in patients with skin disorders: a narrative review

Visual skin lesions, particularly on the face, can lead to mental health issues in patients, including low self-worth, embarrassment and social isolation. These issues can also lead to psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression and suicidal tendencies, which can severely affect quality of life.

The researchers aim was to highlight the importance of mental health care for patients with skin diseases. For this article, the authors focused on dermatological patients who presented with secondary mental health issues. They wrote a detailed description of mental disorders that were found in patients with acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis, vitiligo and hidradenitis suppurativa. Furthermore, the authors also discussed the link between the severity of the dermatological symptoms with mental illnesses and the quality of life of the patients.

The authors concluded that the impact of skin conditions on the mental health of dermatological patients should be a primary concern for physicians, and the quick identification and treatment of these mental disorders are essential.

The significant health threat from sunbed use as a self-treatment in patients with acne

Despite their well-known harmful effects, the use of sunbeds in patients with acne is increasing globally. The authors of this study stated that, in treating adult acne under dermatology care, there is little information about the use of sunbeds.

The authors used a questionnaire to examine and determine sunbed use behaviours in acne patients at a UK dermatology centre. Results of the survey showed that 26% of recipients regularly used sunbeds. The demographic showed that these patients were more likely to be older, female, had a longer acne diagnosis duration and had previously been offered blue light therapy.

Of these, 72% tanned at least once per week, reasoning the recommendations from external sources, including the internet, and perceived greater efficacy than physician-prescribed treatments. The survey also showed that 49% of recipients were prescribed isotretinoin at the time of sunbed use.

In conclusion to this study, the authors stated that all dermatologists must address this potential gap in public awareness by informing patients of the risk of sunbed use, particularly for those concomitantly prescribed oral retinoid therapy.

Oral nail growth supplements: a comprehensive review

In the cosmeceutical market, there is a continued and growing trend for nail products, which has highlighted the need for dermatologists to provide patients with evidence-based information regarding over-the-counter products and supplements for nail growth.

There is no legal requirement for an efficacy and safety assessment by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prior to these products being made available to consumers. The authors of this study noted that this can have potential financial and health consequences for patients seeking affordable and effective over-the-counter products to improve their nail conditions. The authors carried out a comprehensive review and discussed the available oral nail growth products, their mechanisms of action and side effects.

Guideline for the safe use of hyaluronidase in aesthetic medicine, including modified high-dose protocol

Vascular occlusion is an unfortunate complication of dermal filler injections that can lead to harmful outcomes for the patient.

An enzyme called hyaluronidase, which was first used in general medicine in 1949, is currently used to dissolve hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in medical aesthetics. It is paramount that all medical professionals have extensive knowledge of hyaluronidase, as well as any potential side effects, such as allergic reaction.

The authors of this paper offer guidance regarding the indications for hyaluronidase use when dissolving hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. They also consider drug formulation differences, adverse events and allergy to wasp and bee stings, as well as how this increases the risk of hyaluronidase allergy. Different types of allergic response and how they correlate to skin tests are also detailed.