Medical aesthetic products. L’Oréal USA announces grant to advance dermatology research for skin of color

THE WHAT? L’Oréal USA has announced a US$100,000 research grant to the Skin of Color Society (SOCS). The grant is intended to assist five early-career dermatologists and scientists in furthering their academic careers and promoting the development of innovative ideas in clinical and translational research.

THE DETAILS Grant applications will be reviewed by the SOCS Research Committee and priority will be given to applicants within eight years of post-graduate training who have not received previous funding. Recipients will be announced later this week at the SOCS Symposium in New Orleans.  

THE WHY? Sanford Browne, President of Research & Innovation, North America, commented, “We at L’Oréal are committed to helping bridge the gap for people of color and the dermatological conditions that affect them, as they are often underrepresented in research and healthcare. Through the dedicated work of our Research & Innovation team, we have been able to advance science and solutions that benefit diverse populations for many years. We are proud to support the mission of the Skin of Color Society and dermatologists dedicated to improving the lives of those with skin of color. We are optimistic about the impact of this funding on the field of dermatology and look forward to witnessing its results.”

Medical aesthetic products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics, which combines medical practices with cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of individuals. These products are typically used under the supervision of trained medical professionals such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or specialized nurses. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients or require medical expertise for their application.

Examples of medical aesthetic products include:

• Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to restore volume, fill wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These may include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra.

• Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectable neurotoxins used to temporarily paralyze facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions.

• Chemical Peels: Solutions containing chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid, used to improve skin texture, treat acne scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

• Laser and Light Devices: Equipment used for various skin treatments, including hair removal, skin resurfacing, tattoo removal, and treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

• Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants, designed to address specific dermatological concerns under medical supervision.

• Microneedling Devices: Devices that create tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity.

• Cosmeceuticals: High-quality skincare products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, often containing biologically active ingredients with proven efficacy.