At this year’s American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) annual meeting, many of the hot topics pertained to tightening and smoothness of the skin. More naturally derived skin care products were discussed, as well as skin-tightening devices, techniques for improving fat, microneedling, devices for improving cellulite, and some of the newer injectable fillers on the market.
Of all of these, the use of microneedling with and without radiofrequency energy to improve acne scars, rhytids, and pore size was the most prominent emerging trend. Microneedling devices with radiofrequency also are being used for skin tightening, in addition to improving skin texture.
Dr. Naissan O. Wesley
There were also presentations on improvements in acne scars with a number of techniques, including fractional ablative and nonablative lasers, subcision, microneedling, and fillers.
Controversies addressed at the meeting included whether or not dermatologists should use the same lasers with different Food and Drug Administration–approved hand pieces for vaginal rejuvenation. In addition, controversies over whether Mohs surgeons should undergo board examination were discussed.
Dr. Lily Talakoub
Dr. Talakoub and Dr. Wesley are co-contributors to this column. Dr. Talakoub is in private practice in McLean, Va. Dr. Wesley practices dermatology in Beverly Hills, Calif. This month’s column is by Dr. Wesley. Write to them at dermnews@frontlinemedcom.com.