Abstract: Provided are compositions and methods for treatment of conditions and diseases of the skin, for example fine lines and wrinkles and rosacea. The compositions include a porphyrin that is a chlorophyllin, a chlorin compound, a complex of a chlorin compound, or a salt or ester of the chlorin compound or its complex.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus for decolonizing microbes from skin surfaces and body cavities, in particular the decoloniziation of MRSA from nasal cavities using UVC preferably combined with visible light. The device consists of a lightguide, dispensing tip plus accessories, and a housing with a UV source, optical filtering and light collection means, shutter and timer. An internal or external radiometer provides dosimetry information to the operator. The device has additional utility in killing microbes on skin surfaces and beneath nail beds. The lightguide itself comprises the holder for the dispensing tip for use in cavities and as a holder for surface use. The dispensing tips serve to protect decolonization subjects from cross-contamination and may act to shape the nasal cavity and the light distribution pattern of the emitted UVC and visible radiation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing hairs from living skin is provided involving the measurement with a colorimeter of the color of the area of the skin where the hair is to be removed to obtain a representative color value, employing the color value to select an optimum range of laser energy necessary to inactivate hair follicles in the area, yet minimize any inflammatory reaction, and directing laser energy of optimum range at the skin area to depilate such area.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing hairs from living skin is provided involving the measurement with a colorimeter of the color of the area of the skin where the hair is to be removed to obtain a representative color value, employing the color value to select an optimum range of laser energy necessary to inactivate hair follicles in the area, yet minimize any inflammatory reaction, and directing laser energy of optimum range at the skin area to depilate such area.