Cosmetic potential of phenolic-rich extracts from Cannabis sativa L. seeds: Inhibition of enzymes involved in skin aging, inflammation and hyperpigmentation

Mechanism of Inonotus hispidus in treating melasma: integrated in vivo, in vitro, network pharmacology and untargeted metabolomics investigation.

Glabridin promotes melanosome degradation and alleviates melanosome-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in keratinocytes via autophagy.

An AI-assisted designed supramolecularly engineered nanoplatform reverses pigmentation by triggering an ineffective compensatory melanin production program.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a frequent but underrecognized complication following energy-assisted liposuction and may compromise aesthetic outcomes, particularly in procedures marketed as minimally invasive and scarless. Although Q-switched Nd:YAG laser therapy is considered a standard treatment, incomplete resolution and recurrence remain common, suggesting the need for adjunctive therapies targeting the inflammatory tissue microenvironment. To evaluate whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) enhances the efficacy of Q-switched Nd:YAG laser therapy in the treatment of post-liposuction PIH. A retrospective observational study was conducted on 186 patients who developed clinically relevant PIH (Post-Aspiration Hyperpigmentation Index [PAHPI] >10) after ultrasound-assisted liposuction (VASER®) between 2019 and 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (laser therapy alone, n=93) and Group B (HBOT followed by laser therapy, n=93). HBOT consisted of 20 sessions at 2 ATA for 45 minutes. PIH severity was assessed using PAHPI scores at baseline and after treatment, with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Multivariable analyses evaluated the influence of procedural variables. Both groups demonstrated significant PAHPI reduction after treatment (p<0.0001). However, the combined HBOT and laser group showed significantly greater improvement compared with laser alone (p<0.001). The greatest improvements were observed in the abdomen and back, while lower limbs showed higher residual pigmentation. In the combined group, a significant inverse correlation was observed between lipoaspirated volume and PAHPI reduction (p<0.001). VASER application time was not independently associated with baseline PIH severity. Adjunctive HBOT significantly enhances the efficacy of Q-switched Nd:YAG laser therapy in post-liposuction PIH treatment without increasing adverse events.

ObjectivesWhile ambulatory phlebectomy and sclerotherapy are established treatments for varicose tributaries, they possess inherent limitations regarding invasiveness and technical consistency. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and clinical feasibility of tributary varicose vein ablation (VVA). The primary endpoint was the safety of VVA based on postoperative complications. Secondary endpoints included the target vessel occlusion rate and the reduction of subcutaneous induration.MethodsThis multicenter prospective study included 311 limbs (240 patients) with saphenous-type varicose veins treated with VVA across four institutions. A 1470nm diode laser and radial fiber were used with a standardized energy density of 25J/cm. Early complications were assessed at 1 week (n = 311). For the longitudinal analysis of induration and skin hyperpigmentation, 283 limbs that completed the 6-month follow-up were evaluated. Changes in categorical paired data were analyzed using McNemar's test. Factors associated with persistent pigmentation were analyzed using the unpaired t-test.ResultsThe target vessel occlusion rate was 99.6% at 6 months. At 1 week, no instances of skin burns or infections were recorded. One case (0.3%) of pulmonary embolism occurred but resolved with anticoagulation. Subcutaneous induration was observed in 81.6% of limbs at 1 month (mean diameter: 4.92 ± 2.34mm) but significantly regressed by 6 months (26.1%, 2.50 ± 1.66mm; p < .001). Persistent minor nerve injury was rare (0.7% at 6 months). The incidence of subcutaneous induration significantly decreased from 81.6% at 1 month to 26.1% at 6 months (p < .001). Skin hyperpigmentation remained at 16.3% at 6 months (p = .451).ConclusionsVVA using a radial fiber is a safe and effective alternative that overcomes the limitations of traditional phlebectomy and sclerotherapy. By ensuring thermal delivery exclusively within the target vessels, the procedure provides a reproducible and standardized approach for the comprehensive management of varicose veins.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a frequent skin alteration in aesthetic and dermatological practice, characterized by increased melanin deposition after inflammatory processes. Among the triggering factors, insect bites from the Culicidae family stand out, as their saliva contains immunogenic components capable of inducing local inflammation, itching, and melanocytic activation. This study aimed to analyze, through a multidisciplinary narrative literature review, the main pathophysiological mechanisms involved in PIH resulting from mosquito bites, as well as therapeutic approaches of interest to aesthetics and cosmetology. The findings demonstrate that the inflammatory response induced by Culicidae saliva promotes the release of cytokines, prostaglandins, and reactive oxygen species, stimulating melanocytes and increasing the synthesis and transfer of melanin to keratinocytes. It is concluded that understanding the inflammatory and pigmentary mechanisms is fundamental for the prevention and effective treatment of HPI associated with Culicidae bites.

The eyes and facial skin play a crucial role in preserving a youthful appearance; they greatly impact the perception of freshness and vitality. Various non-invasive and invasive procedures now treat dermatochalasis and facial wrinkles, including a relatively new technique developed in the past 15 years. Plasma radiofrequency ablation, an advanced, minimally invasive technique, combines the use of plasma energy and radiofrequency to treat various skin conditions, including facial wrinkles and dermatochalasis. This treatment acts to stimulate collagen, tightening skin and improving texture, with minimal downtime and low risk of side effects. Fifteen patients with dermatochalasis and ten patients with facial wrinkles underwent plasma radiofrequency ablation treatments. It is a minimally invasive treatment for dermatochalasis and wrinkles that provides effective results with short recovery times, but it is not without risks - such as infection, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or scarring - especially in patients who do not follow post-care instructions precisely. This preliminary retrospective study aims to discuss and share the authors' experiences with plasma radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of dermatochalasis and facial wrinkles.

BackgroundNottingham University medical students undergo a two-week rotation in dermatology which incorporates teaching sessions, including didactic lecture presentations, tutorial seminars on skin cancers and acute dermatological conditions and patient simulations. Many studies highlight the need to improve skin of colour teaching in medical school curricula globally, as low representation can negatively affect physician knowledge throughout their career.MethodsUsing a pre-post intervention study design, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) teaching materials were adapted by adding clinical images of dermatological conditions in skin of colour to existing teaching sessions (obtained from DermNetNZ). Four new learning objectives were set relating to skin of colour in four common skin conditions in the curriculum: acne, eczema, psoriasis and skin cancer. Teaching materials were added to cover this content, and knowledge acquisition was assessed before and after the dermatology rotation using a pre/post-attachment questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive analysis.ResultsNinety-nine medical students completed pre- and post-dermatology attachment questionnaires. Students’ confidence in recognising skin conditions in patients with skin of colour improved, with 71% reporting confidence ≤5/10 pre-attachment and 74.7% reporting confidence >5/10 post-attachment. The post-attachment questionnaire showed that 97% of students identified increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring in acne in skin of colour, 94.9% recognised psoriatic plaques differed in darker skin tones, 100% recognised erythema can be challenging to identify in eczema of darker skin tones, and 97% identified that melanoma is diagnosed later and is associated with poorer survival in patients with skin of colour.ConclusionAdaptations to the NUH dermatology teaching materials demonstrate the feasibility and educational benefits of incorporating skin of colour content into existing undergraduate dermatology teaching. Data collection is ongoing to increase sample size and assess inclusivity. Results are preliminary and may be limited by methods used to assess knowledge gain and confidence.

International modified Delphi consensus statement on visible light photoprotection: Effects, measurement, and recommendations.

Integrated skincare (ISC) combines dermocosmetics with medical aesthetic procedures to improve outcomes. However, guidance on selecting appropriate active ingredients across different procedure types and phases remains limited. To provide international guidance on appropriate ISC actives for use with aesthetic procedures. In a simplified Delphi study, 14 experts evaluated 44 actives for use across four procedure categories (ablative energy-based, non-ablative energy-based, non-energy-based procedures with or without skin barrier disruption) at four time points (pretreatment, peri-treatment, aftercare, and follow-up ≥ 1 week post-procedure). The panelists also ranked their top five preferred actives for each procedure category and time point. Ceramides, cholesterol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peptides were deemed appropriate across all procedure categories and all time points. Azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, cysteamine, glycolic acid, hydroquinone, lactic acid, retinoids, and salicylic acid were identified as unsuitable for use on treatment day. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid were highly ranked for pre-treatment, peri-treatment and aftercare, while retinoids and ferulic acid were highly ranked for pretreatment and followup. Vitamin C was ranked in the top 5 across all procedure categories and time points, except at pretreatment for non-energy-based without skin barrier damage. Safety and tolerability are primary considerations when selecting ISC actives. Ingredients with higher irritation potential, such as retinoids and acids, should be avoided during the healing phase (on treatment day and during short-term aftercare) due to risk of irritation, as well as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in skin of color.

Despite the increasing prevalence of cosmetic-related adverse reactions, their potential prognoses and associated risk factors have received limited attention within the medical community. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 7794 cases of cosmetics-related adverse reactions reported in Wuhan, China, from 2017 to 2023. Data were collected from multiple sources, including medical institutions, cosmetic manufacturers, distributors, individual consumers and regulatory agencies. Demographic characteristics, clinical diagnoses, symptom profiles and allergy histories were systematically analysed using descriptive statistics. Cases were stratified by recovery outcome into complete versus incomplete groups to identify prognostic factors. Comparative analyses were performed using χ2 tests, with statistically significant variables (p < 0.05) further evaluated through multivariate logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.0, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Among the 7794 patients, the majority (76.56%) achieved complete recovery, while a substantial proportion (23.44%) experienced persistent or permanent symptoms, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), atrophic scarring and other forms of skin damage. Statistical analysis identified age and a history of allergies as significant risk factors for long-term skin damage. Patients under 20 years of age were 2.06 times more likely to suffer persistent or permanent symptoms compared to those over 50 years (p = 0.000). Additionally, individuals with a history of food allergy were 3.16 times more prone to long-term skin damage (p < 0.05). A history of drug allergy also significantly increased the risk, with an OR of 1.887 (95% CI: 1.34, 2.66; p = 0.000). This study identified younger age (< 20 years) and a history of food or drug allergies as significant risk factors for long-term symptoms following cosmetic adverse reactions. These insights assist dermatologists in recognising high-risk individuals and guiding tailored preventive strategies. Integrating these indicators into clinical evaluation and patient counselling may enhance early intervention, ultimately reducing the likelihood of persistent or irreversible cutaneous sequelae. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of individualised risk assessment and proactive management in ensuring cosmetic safety and optimising dermatological and public health outcomes.

Patients of Asian descent with Fitzpatrick skin types III-V who experience facial acne scars are a relatively under-researched demographic in medical literature, with limited studies specifically addressing their unique skin characteristics and treatment responses. Traditional treatments have variable efficacy and risk of complications. A novel technique that has shown potential in managing scars is the Q-Switched, 1064 nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser with a fractional beam profile. Picosecond lasers, with extremely short pulse durations, minimize thermal damage and induce tissue remodeling, reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk. This prospective study was proposed to judge the efficacy of 1064 nm fractional picosecond laser for treating atrophic acne scars in the Indian skin type. Twenty-two patients completed the study; all were treated at monthly intervals for three sessions. Evaluation based on Investigator's Global assessment along with patient satisfaction scores was carried out for all patients. The safety of the laser was evaluated by noting down adverse effects. Fourteen patients showed improvement of 26-50% by Investigator's Global Assessment, which was similar to the patient satisfaction scores. Post-treatment edema, pinpoint bleeding, and mild erythema were the only side effects noted. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was not noted in any of the patients. Fractional picosecond laser can be considered a viable and safe option to treat acne scars in patients with dark skin type.

Cutaneous hyperpigmentation, an overlooked manifestation, can be an early sign of vitamin B12 deficiency. This case highlights symmetric pigmentation on the dorsum of hands and palms in a long-term vegetarian. Recognizing such subtle skin changes aids early diagnosis. Timely treatment reverses both pigmentation and systemic symptoms, underscoring its clinical relevance.

A patient with advanced bladder cancer received antitumor therapy consisting of gemcitabine on days 1 and 8 combined with cisplatin and treliprimab on day 1. Severe periorbital hyperpigmentation occurred 30 min after gemcitabine infusion on day 8. Symmetrical diffuse hyperpigmentation of a dark brown hue with indistinct borders appeared around the affected eye, extending to the orbital and facial regions along the orbital margin. No accompanying symptoms, including pruritus, pain, or desquamation, were observed. The patient had no prior history of dermatological conditions and no family history of skin disorders. During chemotherapy, no other drugs, cosmetics, or specific foods known to induce skin hyperpigmentation were used. No additional abnormalities were identified during dermatological examination. Laboratory tests, including liver function indicators such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) within the range of 10-40 IU/L, kidney function parameters such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 2.8-7.1 mmol/L and creatinine 50-96 μmol/L, blood glucose levels of 3.9-6.1 mmol/L, thyroid function within normal limits, and electrolytes including sodium (Na) 135-145 mmol/L and potassium (K) 3.5-5.5 mmol/L, were all within their respective normal ranges. Considering the patient's medical background, treatment regimen, and the temporal relationship between the onset of symptoms and chemotherapy cycles, this periorbital hyperpigmentation likely represents a transient adverse reaction to gemcitabine, as supported by previously reported cases. Within 2 days after chemotherapy cessation, the periorbital hyperpigmentation improved significantly. This case highlights that during gemcitabine administration, clinicians should remain vigilant for rare adverse reaction of gemcitabine-induced periorbital hyperpigmentation. Close skin monitoring throughout treatment is essential, and prompt evaluation and intervention should be carried out to improve the patient's quality of life.

Accurate species identification is essential for conserving and managing plants that provide important ecosystem services and have ethnobotanical value. The Greyia tree genus (G. sutherlandii, G. radlkoferi and G. flanaganii) is endemic to South Africa and Eswatini, and certain genotypes have medicinal value for treating skin hyper-pigmentation. However, distinguishing among species is difficult because of overlapping phenotypes and the limited resolution of standard DNA barcodes. To overcome these limitations, a robust molecular identification assay was developed using a two-phase strategy. First, de novo SNP discovery using 3RAD sequencing identified 47,726 genome-wide SNPs from two to three plants sampled from each species' core geographic range: G. radlkoferi in northern Limpopo, G. sutherlandii in eastern KwaZulu-Natal, and G. flanaganii in the south-eastern Eastern Cape. Principal component analysis and coancestry matrices revealed three discrete genetic clusters, supporting the recognition of the three species. Selecting a set of 200 SNPs with intermediate Fst values (0.2-0.5) resulted in optimal separation of the three clusters. This led to the final selection of a 23-SNP panel that included five informative barcoding loci (ITS, trnL-F, matK). Second, the 23 SNPs were converted into allele-specific fluorescent PCR assays (SNP Type) for genotyping on the BioMark HD platform. The panel was validated using genomic DNA from 17 individuals from the 3RAD population groups and successfully differentiated all three species. It was then applied to 73 trees sampled across a 1000-km transect from the Eastern Cape to Limpopo. Genetic clustering (PCA, UPGMA and ADMIXTURE) assigned each tree to one of three species-level groups matching their expected ranges. In a practical case study, the assay also identified the species origin of 33 Greyia trees of unknown provenance from production orchards. This study provides an efficient SNP-based tool for accurate species identification, supporting conservation planning and the sustainable management of Greyia populations.

Condensed tannins from Acer palmatum seed coats attenuate UVB-induced skin hyperpigmentation and oxidative stress

Radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) utilizes RF energy delivered via needles to the dermis to enhance texture, reduce laxity, and improve dyschromia. However, evidence has been fragmented by indication/device heterogeneity. We evaluated clinical effectiveness, safety, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of RFMN across dermatological conditions. Searches of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar (January 2015-July 2025) (PROSPERO registration: CRD420251089393) were conducted, and English-language RCTs, cohort studies, case series, and reports of RFMN across skin indications were included (non-human studies excluded). A modified Critical Appraisal Skills Programme(CASP) checklist was used for quality analysis. Findings were narratively synthesized. Forty-one studies met the criteria (15 RCTs, 19 prospective non-randomized studies, 5 prospective cohorts, 2 case series) spanning diverse geographies and Fitzpatrick skin types. For atrophic acne scars, RFMN consistently reduced scar scores and demonstrated efficacy comparable to fractional lasers. For skin laxity/photoaging, RFMN improved wrinkle scales, dermal density, and submental volume, (histologically evidenced). Additional benefits were noted for rosacea, melasma, and striae, though effect sizes varied. In primary axillary hyperhidrosis, botulinum toxin A outperformed RFMN for symptom reduction/comfort. Safety was favorable; erythema, edema, and transient pain predominated; post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was infrequent and self-limited. PROs indicated high satisfaction and minimal downtime. Reporting of technical parameters, especially temperature, pulse width, and cooling, was inconsistent. RFMN is safe, well-tolerated, with credible efficacy across multiple indications and skin types, and an attractive recovery profile. Standardized outcomes, longer follow-up periods, and rigorous reporting of device settings are necessary to refine protocols and facilitate head-to-head device comparisons. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Background: The long-term ingestion of external corticosteroids can lead to iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome and are known to be adverse drug reactions that are prevented. There are many nonspecific symptoms associated with iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome that often mimic other dermatologic or systemic conditions and may therefore go undetected. If there has been long-term use of an external corticosteroid, there are also considerations if the external corticosteroid is withdrawn suddenly. It can lead to a delayed crisis. Case Report: 53-year-old hypertensive female patient presented with skin thickening and hyperpigmentation over the abdomen and the lower extremities; generalized pruritus; exertional dyspnea; weakness; recent history of a chest pain; and fall. The patient reported medical history of taking chronic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and external corticosteroids for joint pain. Clinical examination showed pallor, mild pedal edema, hypertension, skin atrophy, and scaliness. When laboratory tests were performed, low serum cortisol levels, concentric left ventricular hypertrophy with diastolic dysfunction Grade I, mild anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperbilirubinemia, and mild renal impairment were obtained. Treatment/ Results: The patient was treated with antihypertensives, supportive care, gradual tapering of steroids and dermatology consult. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that there is chronic adrenal suppression from due to long-term exposure of corticosteroids. Low cortisol level confirms the diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome due to exogenous steroid use as compared to endogenous causes. In the evaluation of abnormal skin or systemic changes, always ask the patient about use of corticosteroids; it is important to taper corticosteroids appropriately so sudden withdrawal does not result in a crisis

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is an acute and contagious viral infection that commonly affects children, especially those under 5 years of age. A 1-year-old male patient presented to the Dermatology Clinic at Cut Meutia General Hospital with the primary complaint of watery blisters on his hands, feet, and mouth, accompanied by fever and loss of appetite. These watery blisters first appeared one week before admission and have worsened over the past three days, spreading rapidly and rupturing easily. The patient has also experienced fluctuating fever over the past three days, loss of appetite, and red spots on the back. The patient lives in an environment where he frequently interacts with neighborhood children and has poultry kept near the house. Dermatological findings: The oral region showed multiple vesicles on the tongue mucosa with an erythematous base; some lesions had ruptured, forming shallow erosions. The upper extremities showed vesicles and erythematous papules with well-defined borders, ranging in size from lenticular to nummular, distributed in multiple clusters; some had a whitish center and were scattered across the extensor surfaces of the arms. The lower extremities show multiple erythematous vesicles of lenticular size; some exhibit hyperpigmented macules from old lesions with indistinct borders. The thoracic and dorsal regions show erythematous macules and multiple small papules; some exhibit post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The patient was prescribed steroid medication, specifically Fusycom cream, cefixime syrup, and cetirizine syrup