Skin News: Fall 2009

Cosmetic Dermatology Update

New- Eyelash enhancement drug Latisse™
The newest wonder drug on the block promises long lush lashes. A new use for an old medication was discovered when patients with glaucoma using bimatoprost .03% eyedrops (Lumigan ™) were noted to have increased eyelash growth and thickness. The eyedrops have been reformulated by Allergan and reintroduced as Latisse™. Subsequent studies on its effect on eyelash growth have confirmed that the drops prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle resulting in longer thicker eyelashes when applied to the eyelids once per day for 16 weeks. Darkening of the lashes is usually seen as well. Unfortunately, the eyelashes return to their normal state when the solution is no longer applied. Common side effects include redness and itching of the eyes in 4%. Darkening of the iris (colored part of the eye) and eyelid skin may also occur. No, it is not covered by insurance!

Botox Update: FDA Blackbox warning- No worries with small doses or cosmetic use
In May 2009, the FDA issued a ‘black box’ warning regarding serious safety risks with injectable botulinum toxins. However, these warnings were issued because of complications such as breathing and swallowing problems associated with large doses for treatment of muscle spasms, an unapproved use. There have been no such complications with FDA approved indications such as wrinkle correction, excessive sweating, or eyelid spasm. As per FDA representatives and personal experience, botulinum toxins are safe when used for approved indications in moderate doses!

Botox versus Dysport: What’s the difference?
Dysport™ , FDA approved April 2009, is the newest version of botulinum toxin A available in the US for treatment of glabellar furrows or frown lines. Dysport™ , also known as abobotulinumtoxin A, has no substantial differences in efficacy but carries different dosage guidelines than Botox A. Slightly less experience than its competitor, it may introduce some competition into the market but established users of Botox A will be hard pressed to switch based on the safety profile and ease of use.

Dr. Humphreys has used Botox™ to treat wrinkles due to muscle movement and excessive sweating since the intial FDA approvals in 2004.

Sculptra Aesthetic™ FDA approved for cosmetic use August 2009
While Sculptra™ has long been used for facial volume restoration in Europe, it was initially introduced into the US market for correction of loss of facial fat associated with antiviral (HIV) medications. It is now formally approved for correction of facial wrinkles and fat loss due to normal aging of tissue. Sculptra™ restores fullness associated with youthful skin in a gradual manner with exceptionally natural results. Dr. Humphreys has used Sculptra™ for natural appearing volume correction since its initial approval in 2005.

Skin Cancer Update

Ultraviolet Radiation declared a human carcinogen by the World Health Organization
In June 2009, the International Agency for Research on Cancer reassessed the types of radiation known to cause cancer in humans. Included on the IARC list is ultraviolet radiation from sun exposure and indoor tanning booths. An analysis of over 20 studies shows that the risk of developing melanoma is increased by 75% when the use of tanning beds starts before age 30 ! (IARC media center)These findings reinforce the previous WHO recommendations to avoid indoor tanning booths and to protect your skin from over exposure to the sun.

New Drug offers promise for inoperable Basal Cell Carcinoma
Preliminary results of treatment of locally advanced or metastatic basal cell carcinoma with GDC-0449, a drug from Genentech, were published in the September 2009 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. The new oral medication blocks the replication of some tumor cells including basal cell carcinoma and offers hope to patients without other treatment options. Clinical trials are ongoing and will continue before the drug is available to the public.