Short description:

Introduces a range of used, or under development, laser- and light-based technologies that provide greater cosmetic benefits to the consumer. This book explains the basic physics of light-based technologies, the bio-physical principles behind their mechanism of action, and their applications in many cosmetic procedures.

Long description:

In recent decades, cosmetic science has found new high-potency, bioactive ingredients that produce visibly superior skin benefits to the consumer. Light-based devices, including lasers and intense-pulsed light systems, have been used for years in the treatment of cutaneous vascular and pigmented lesions, yet have only recently appeared in cosmetic applications, beauty salons and spas. Meanwhile, ever more research and development is being performed with the intent of bringing them to the home-use market.

This book is the first to introduce a range of currently used, or under development, laser- and light-based technologies that will provide greater cosmetic benefits to the consumer. It explains the basic physics of light-based technologies, the bio-physical principles behind their mechanism of action, and their applications in many cosmetic procedures. The fundamentals of skin and hair physiology (relevant to the understanding of actions of various cosmetics) are also explained, as are: cosmeceuticals; topical drugs for cosmetic benefits; non-invasive and invasive options available for beauty treatments, and how all this fits in with the emerging light-based technologies.

Individual chapters are devoted to the various skin and hair conditions where light-based systems are currently used. Treatments discussed include the rejuvenation and toning of damaged skin; skin resurfacing and microdermabrasion; hair removal and growth reduction; wrinkle reduction; acne treatment and cellulite. Finally, the book examines the synergy of cosmeceuticals and topical bioactive agents with light-based technologies, safety issues, a regulatory perspective for OTC marketing, and concludes with a discussion of the business aspects related to home-use of light-based devices.

Table of Contents:

Beauty Medicine: Evolution of Cosmetic Science; Skin Biology: Understanding biological targets for improving appearance; Hair Biology: Management of Hair Growth; Physics behind Light-Based Systems: Skin and Hair follicle interactions with Light; Laser and Light-based systems for aesthetic procedures; Laser Hair Removal; Hair Removal with Intense Pulsed Light Devices; Hair Removal with Light and RF energy; Hair Removal with Light-based systems in darker skin types; Skin Rejuvenation: Fundamental understanding and light-based treatment options; Skin Rejuvenation: fractional photothermolysis; LED Phototherapy skin Rejuvenation; Skin rejuvenation with non-chemical, non light-based system: Microdermabrasion; Role of Light-based Systems in Wrinkle Reduction; Cellulite Reduction: Photothermal Therapy of Cellulite; Treatment of Acne: Phototherapy with Blue-Light; PFB Treatment: Role of Light-based systems in the treatment of PFB; Synergy of topical eflornithine cream with light-based system for hair removal; Photodynamic therapy in Dermatology: Combination of bioactive with Light Energy (acne and hair removal); Photodynamic photorejuvenation of skin: Combination Photoactive Molecules with Light Sources; Regulatory Perspective: Medical classification, approval process, 510 K process, OTC switching; Dermal safety of laser and light-based systems; Eye Safety: Basics of laser/light system eye safety. Regulatory perspective. Potential concerns and solutions for the home use market; Light-based devices for home use