The Medical Dermatology Potpourri session at SCALE 2026 in Nashville brought together a range of novel approaches and clinical pearls for clinicians.
Laser Therapy for Complex Dermatologic Cases: Lasers are emerging as a viable treatment for challenging conditions. Picosecond lasers show promise for topical-induced argyria and erythema dyschromium perstans, with shorter wavelengths for the former and longer for the latter. Pulsed dye laser may help with ulcerated verrucous venous malformations.
Inflammaging and Senescence in Skin Aging: These two hallmarks of aging interact in a positive feedback loop. Researchers are exploring lifestyle modifications-anti-inflammatory diets and exercise-alongside senotherapeutics and immunomodulators to slow the process.
Recognizing Neurogenic Rosacea: This under-recognized subtype presents with stinging or burning, often alongside neuropsychiatric conditions. Neuropathic agents like gabapentin or beta-blockers such as carvedilol may improve both flushing and neurogenic symptoms.
New Acne Treatment Directions: Clascoterone cream 1% is now shown effective and safe for skin of color after 16 weeks. Fatty acid synthase inhibitors like denifanstat target sebum production and may offer an alternative to antibiotics and retinoids.
Photoprotection Across Skin Types: Tinted sunscreens with visible light protection are critical for skin of color to prevent hyperpigmentation, as photoaging in darker skin manifests more as dyschromia than rhytids.