Reflectance confocal microscopy applications in cosmetology

Skin is a multi-functional organ that present distinct aspects in physiological and pathological conditions. The two main structural layers of the skin, the epidermis and the dermis, can be either affected by many pathologic processes. An inevitable skin change occurs with the passage of time (skin aging) that can be dramatically accelerated by environmental factors. Since the epidermis is the outer layer of skin, which serves as a physical and chemical barrier to the environment, several damage can affect this compartment, mainly due to irritants or medical treatments such as peelings. Another pathologic phenomenon regards the skin pigmentation that can be located exclusively in the epidermis and at dermo-epidermal junction or deeper into the dermis. The skin comprises also adnexal structures such as hairs that are part of distinct cutaneous entities belonging from the spectrum of inflammatory or degenerative diseases.