Abstract: There are disclosed compounds for assisting triplet absorption in a laser, such as a pulsed-dye laser, the compounds comprising at least one molecule chosen from nitroxides and nitrones. In one embodiment, the disclosed compounds may be mixed with the dye of a dye laser in an amount sufficient to assist in triplet absorption. In one embodiment, the nitroxide compound comprises tempol [4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidinyloxy, free radical]. Also disclosed are methods of using the disclosed compounds to control the triplet absorption of a dye laser or improve the performance or life span of a gaseous or solid laser.

Abstract: The invention relates to tissue filler compositions that are alterable or removable on demand. Also provided are methods for filling or augmenting tissue using the tissue fillers described herein, and correcting such tissue implants as required.

Abstract: Methods of treating inflammatory skin diseases such as rosacea, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug eruptions, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, connective tissue diseases, autoimmune disorders, urticaria or hives, and inflammation associated with skin infections by topical or systemic administration of a nitroxide containing compound are provided.

Abstract: Skin including wrinkles is irradiated with laser radiation having a wavelength between about 525 and 550 nanometers. The irradiation is delivered at a fluence that stimulates wound healing responses without actually inflicting a wound. This promotes deposition of dermal extracellular matrix. Absorption properties of hemoglobin and melanin in the 525 to 550 nanometer wavelength range provide that wound healing response is concentrated close to upper regions of the skin and accordingly close to the location of the wrinkles. The growth of dermal extracellular matrix “bulks-up” irradiated dermal tissue. This makes the depressions or folds of the wrinkles shallower and less apparent.

Abstract: An in vitro system for identifying agents capable of inhibiting or preventing oxidative damage is provided. The disclosed in vitro system comprises a mouse fibroblast culture derived from a transgenic mouse capable of expressing a reporter gene regulated by a human elastin promoter and a chemical means for generating reactive oxygen species within the mouse fibroblast culture. Also disclosed is a method for using this in vitro system for identifying agents capable of inhibiting or preventing oxidative damage.

Abstract: Skin including hypotrophic scars is irradiated with laser radiation having a wavelength between about 525 and 550 nanometers. The irradiation is delivered at a fluence that stimulates wound healing responses without actually inflicting a wound. The wound healing properties promote growth of dermal extracellular matrix. Absorption properties of hemoglobin and melanin in the 525 to 550 nanometer wavelength range provide that wound healing response is concentrated close to upper regions of the skin and accordingly close to the location of the scars. The growth of dermal extracellular matrix “bulks-up” irradiated dermal tissue. This makes the depressions of hypertrophic scars shallower and less apparent. The method has also been observed to cause shrinkage of enlarged pores.

Abstract: Methods for preventing photoaging and other types of sun damage and promoting wound healing by topically applying a nitroxide containing compound are provided.

Abstract: Skin including wrinkles is irradiated with laser radiation having a wavelength between about 525 and 550 nanometers. The irradiation is delivered at a fluence that stimulates wound healing responses without actually inflicting a wound. This promotes deposition of dermal extracellular matrix. Absorption properties of hemoglobin and melanin in the 525 to 550 nanometer wavelength range provide that wound healing response is concentrated close to upper regions of the skin and accordingly close to the location of the wrinkles. The growth of dermal extracellular matrix “bulks-up” irradiated dermal tissue. This makes the depressions or folds of the wrinkles shallower and less apparent.

Abstract: A transgenic mouse capable of expressing a reporter gene regulated by human elastin promoter is provided. Mouse fibroblast cultures derived from this transgenic mouse are also provided. In addition, methods of identifying compounds capable of inhibiting cutaneous photodamage with this transgenic mouse or fibroblast cultures derived from these mice are provided.

Abstract: A irradiation attachment for an optical fiber which provides an output of light that has a highly uniform intensity. The device includes a hollow spherical shell having a diffusive reflective surface or target supported therein. Light is directed into the hollow spherical shell so that it reflects off the diffusive reflective surface or target. The reflected light is internally reflected off the inner surface of the hollow spherical shell several times before passing through an output aperture. As a result of the internal reflection within the hollow spherical shell, the light leaving the device has a highly uniform intensity. The device is particularly useful for photodynamic therapy.

Abstract: A method of optimizing photodynamic therapy in which retained concentrations of photosensitizers administered are measured on a real time basis by percutaneous measurements of fluorescence. A light weight hand held fluorometer is used to percutaneously measure fluorescence emitted by photosensitizers in a tissue situs that is subject to photodynamic therapy. The use of real time determinations of the concentration of photosensitizers allow optimization of illumination intensity and duration.