Tattoos have long become a part of human civilization. However, as the number of people who get tattoos increases, so is the number of people who wish to have their tattoos removed. Compared to other methods, laser‐based devices are associated with the best efficacy and least side effects in tattoo removal. Lack of understanding of the fundamental principles of laser and managing its parameters may result in suboptimal result and increased risk of side effects. Recognizing and mastering multiple factors including skin types, nature and color of tattoos, and proper selection of laser parameters such as wavelength, fluence, and pulse, are central in achieving an optimal tattoo removal outcome. This review provides a comprehensive overview on the fundamental principle of laser and practical approaches in tattoo removal.
Obesity was associated with reduced disc height in the lumbar spine, but not at the lumbosacral junction, suggesting these joints may have different risk factors. There was also evidence for an inter-relationship between obesity, lumbar disc height, and recent pain, suggesting that structural changes have a role in back pain and may in part explain the association between obesity and back pain.
Skin whitening products market is a vast and rapidly growing industry which is estimated to worth US$ 31.2 billion by 2024. 1 The desire to obtain a fair complexion to achieve a certain standard of beauty has been in practice for ages in various countries and cultures. 2 In addition, this appearance also serves as an expression for the "good," "holy," and virtuous attributes in multiple religious worldviews. 3 As a result, it is not surprising that attempts to make the skin fairer, both through certain practices or products, continue to thrive and expand up until now.
Background
The antimelanogenesis effect of topical and oral glutathione has been shown in several in vitro and clinical studies. However, whether combination of topical and oral glutathione is superior to topical or oral monotherapy is unknown. This study aimed to compare the skin‐whitening effect of topical and oral glutathione combination therapy against topical and oral monotherapy.
Methods
This double‐blind randomized controlled study was done on 46 participants who were divided into two equal groups. Each group received oral placebo and oral glutathione, respectively. All participants were also instructed to apply topical placebo and glutathione to each facial side, respectively. Colorimeter examination was done biweekly using mexameter and chromameter for 8 weeks. One‐way ANOVA test was used to compare the results of all groups.
Results
The combination group showed significantly lower melanin index (MI) and L* score to placebo (P < 0.05). The mean MI and L* score of the combination group were the highest of all groups. Statistical significance of difference in L* score was reached when the combination group was compared to the oral placebo and topical glutathione group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
This study showed that topical and oral glutathione were effective skin‐lightening agents. Furthermore, combination of topical and oral glutathione might be superior to monotherapy.
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