Cosmetic camouflage improves quality of life among patients with skin disfigurement: A systematic review

This study systematically reviewed the impact of cosmetic camouflage use on different psychosocial outcomes in patients with disfiguring skin disorders. Electronic databases and reference lists were searched in February 2018 for studies reporting the impact of cosmetic camouflage on different quality of life (QoL) outcomes. Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria: six randomized controlled trials, two quasi-experimental studies, nine single group 'before and after' interventions, and one comparative study with single post-intervention measurement. Quality appraisal of included studies was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs critical appraisal tools. While the studies varied in design, those included in this review indicated significant improvement in QoL after the use of cosmetic camouflage. The mean reduction in Dermatological Life Quality Index scores ranged from 1.4 to 6.4 signifying improvement in QoL of participants after treatment with cosmetic camouflage. Cosmetic camouflage can be an effective therapy in improving QoL among patients with skin disfigurement.

Signs of Facial Aging in Men in a Diverse, Multinational Study: Timing and Preventive Behaviors

BACKGROUND

Men are a growing patient population in aesthetic medicine and are increasingly seeking minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.

OBJECTIVE

To examine differences in the timing of facial aging and in the prevalence of preventive facial aging behaviors in men by race/ethnicity.

METHODS

Men aged 18 to 75 years in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia rated their features using photonumeric rating scales for 10 facial aging characteristics. Impact of race/ethnicity (Caucasian, black, Asian, Hispanic) on severity of each feature was assessed. Subjects also reported the frequency of dermatologic facial product use.

RESULTS

The study included 819 men. Glabellar lines, crow's feet lines, and nasolabial folds showed the greatest change with age. Caucasian men reported more severe signs of aging and earlier onset, by 10 to 20 years, compared with Asian, Hispanic, and, particularly, black men. In all racial/ethnic groups, most men did not regularly engage in basic, antiaging preventive behaviors, such as use of sunscreen.

CONCLUSION

Findings from this study conducted in a globally diverse sample may guide clinical discussions with men about the prevention and treatment of signs of facial aging, to help men of all races/ethnicities achieve their desired aesthetic outcomes.