ABSTRACT
Night shift workers may have a disrupted circadian rhythm, which may contribute to the development of skin disease. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a significant difference in the prevalence and severity of self-reported skin disease between "regular" day shift workers compared to "graveyard" night shift workers. We conducted surveys from 630 call center agents in Manila, the Philippines, and they were analyzed regarding demographics, medical history, dermatologic history, lifestyle, and sleep. No difference was found in the prevalence of skin disease between shifts. However, night shift workers were worse sleepers. When compared to good sleepers, poor sleepers had a higher prevalence of skin disease with worse severity. Graveyard shift workers with poor sleep may have increased skin disease severity.
Subject(s)
Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use , Pemphigus/diagnosis , Pemphigus/drug therapy , Thalidomide/therapeutic use , Uterine Cervical Diseases/diagnosis , Uterine Cervical Diseases/drug therapy , Azathioprine/administration & dosage , Diagnosis, Differential , Drug Administration Schedule , Drug Therapy, Combination , Female , Humans , Immunosuppressive Agents/administration & dosage , Middle Aged , Pemphigus/pathology , Prednisone/administration & dosage , Thalidomide/administration & dosage , Uterine Cervical Diseases/pathologyABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To quantitatively examine the effects of skin rejuvenation regimens in treating photodamaged skin. METHODS: Fourteen patients with photodamaged skin were considered for analysis. Skin rejuvenation regimens were as follows: (1) 10 weeks of treatment with topical 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream, (2) 10 weeks of treatment with 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream and topical ascorbic acid lotion, (3) 6 superficial trichloroacetic acid peels, and (4) a combination of the topical treatments and superficial peels. Comparisons of the treatments were analyzed using profilometry and histologic findings. RESULTS: Profilometry analysis provided quantification of the changes from each treatment group and among the treatment programs. Each group showed improvements from baseline. Trichloroacetic acid peels combined with application of the topical products improved skin topography to a greater extent than the less aggressive regimens. Histologic changes correlated well with the skin replica findings. CONCLUSIONS: A 10-week skin rejuvenation regimen objectively improved photodamaged facial skin. Significant changes are noted when combining topical treatments with superficial peels. Hence, use of a combination of trichloroacetic acid peels, 0.05% tretinoin emollient cream, and ascorbic acid lotions is well tolerated and superior to either component alone as part of a comprehensive skin care and sun protection program.