Optimizing Phototesting and Investigating Photobiology of Visible Light

Optimizing Phototesting and Investigating Photobiology of Visible Light

Specific Aim 1: To determine the impact of spectral composition of the VL+UVA1 source on the associated biologic effects.

Specific Aim 2: To investigate differential responses of subjects with different skin phototypes to VL+UVA1, including immediate and delayed erythema and pigmentation, and photodamage.

The design of the study consists of a total of 4 visits within a two week period. The first visit consists of VL+UVA1 irradiation with different light source on the opposite site of patients' back. A combination of non-invasive measurements (e.g., photography, redness and color changes of the skin using colorimetry and diffuse reflectance spectrometry) will be conducted throughout the 4 visits. Biopsies will be taken at various time points.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy individuals age 18 and older
• Fitzpatrick skin phototype (SPT) I-VI, 7 with SPT I-III and 7 with SPT IV-VI, with normal healthy skin
• Able to understand the requirements of the study and its associated risks
• Able to complete and sign a consent form
• Willing and able to refrain from any medications or herbal supplements during the duration of the study, unless permitted by the investigator
• Agrees to refrain from using any new topical skin care products, laundry detergents, or fragrances while participating in the study
• Has not had excessive sun exposure for 7 days prior to enrollment in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recent history of vitiligo, melasma, and other disorders of pigmentation with the exception of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• History of relevant skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, or sunburn on any part of the body
• History of photodermatoses or photosensitivity disorders
• History of melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers
• Use of tanning parlors or exposure of the irradiated sites to sun light during the duration of the study
• Use of topical or systemic treatment that is likely to interfere with assessment, study results, or pose safety concerns
• Subjects with a tendency to bleed excessively
• Known allergies to anesthetics (lidocaine) or anaphylaxis treatment (epinephrine)
• History of hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation
• Use of any photosensitizing medication within the visible light range or additional medication at the discretion of the investigator [examples include - but not limited to - thiazide diuretics, regular use of NSAIDs, hydroxychloroquine, or voriconazole
• A woman who is lactating, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant