The Potential Uses of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Dermatology: A Review.

Background: A growing interest exists in the relationship between diet and skin disease, with many recent studies identifying a role for omega-3 fatty acids (O3FAs) in various dermatological conditions.

Objective: Our objective was to identify the spectrum of uses for O3FA supplementation reported in literature and to evaluate the current level of evidence for its clinical application in skin disease prevention and management.

Methods: A search was conducted using Ovid MEDLINE for primary literature that examined O3FA intake and skin health.

Bilateral facial apocrine chromhidrosis.

A young woman presented to the office with a history of bluish discoloration involving the superior malar region bilaterally. When the bluish discoloration became darker, she would press on her cheeks resulting in excretion of "black sweat" that temporarily lightened her skin color. Examination revealed ill-defined slightly swollen soft plaques involving both superior cheeks.

Er:YAG laser skin resurfacing.

Recent advances in Er:YAG laser technology have dramatically enhanced the ability to resurface the skin safely. Selection of precise ablation and coagulation levels allows laser surgeons to modify these variables to fit the esthetic concerns of individual patients. These systems truly represent a viable alternative to conventional CO2 laser resurfacing.