Like an X-ray, VISIA displays images below your face's surface, but VISIA shows the layers of tissue just beneath your skin rather than going as deep as the bone. With this technology, VISIA allows dermatologists to evaluate six different aspects of the underlying tissue: pore size, skin texture, wrinkles, dark spots and other sun damage, and bacteria.

Before taking the images, the dermatologist provides the system with key information, including the patient's skin tone, gender and date of birth. Using this data, VISIA compares the six aforementioned aspects of the patient to those of people of the same age and gender. The higher the number of each aspect's result, the better standing the patient has in her age group.

Dr. Mona Foad, a dermatologist with the Cincinnati Dermatology Center, incorporates this complexion analysis technology into her patients' skincare consultations ($50 each) so that she has a better picture of what is going on with her clients. Based on the number results, Foad can determine what areas are problematic for the individual person and tailor her recommendations for a more effective solution.

For example, one person's VISIA results could show light sun damage but many bacteria, which might call for a change in the cleansing routine. Another patient's results could show a high amount of sun damage with relatively few bacteria, which might call for a topical Vitamin C regimen.

VISIA also provides images of aging simulation. These images can show what will happen if the patient changes nothing, but they also can provide an idea of how the results might improve by tweaking their skincare regimen. Foad provides her patients with the printouts of the VISIA images so that the patients can see the results for themselves or even use it as a reminder of why they need to follow their prescribed skincare routine.

To learn more about VISIA or to schedule an appointment with the Cincinnati Dermatology Center, visit the center's Web site at CinciDermCenter.com or call (513) 984-4800. For even more information about VISIA, head to VISIA-Complexion-Analysis.com.


PHOTO CREDITS

Photo courtesy of Canfield Scientific