Light-based techniques have transformed the fields of diagnostics and therapy, enabling non- and minimally-invasive procedures, the precise and high resolution targeting of tissues, and allowing deeper insights into biological processes. The last decade has experienced a profound growth in procedures relying on the interaction of light with human skin for cutaneous and full body health.

Light interaction with the skin is defined by a well-orchestrated interplay between the optical radiation, chromophores and photoreceptor groups in skin and hair follicle cells. Through this ‘slightly ajar’ window, we are accessing this delicate dance of photons and cells, eager to unravel its complexity to develop safer and more effective diagnostic- and therapeutic tools. Scientists, engineers and medical professionals are increasingly motivated to work together to unveil the complexities of the light-skin interaction, paving the way for innovative treatments and improved patient outcomes.

The objective of this article collection is to cultivate a deeper understanding of how various wavelengths of optical radiation (including ultraviolet, visible, and infrared) are assimilated by the skin. This is crucial for the refinement of application methods (comprising factors like light intensity, spectral composition, and dosage) for medical and aesthetic treatments for human skin. Furthermore, a more comprehensive understanding of how light impacts the functionality of our skin is imperative, given light’s extensive array of effects, encompassing our circadian equilibrium, skin health, and overall well-being.

In this Research Topic are welcome submissions in the following areas:

Light interaction with the skin and its appendages (e.g. hair follicle, sweat glands):
- Cutaneous applications of light in dermatology;
- Chromophores, photoreceptors, and circadian clock regulation;
- Photochemical, photothermal, photoablation, and laser-induced optical breakdown;
- Cutaneous applications of light for our well-being, and systemic health;
- Wound healing, and wound care;
- Hair growth control;
- Impact of visible light on melanogenesis.

Light and the skin microbiota

New insights in light-based diagnostics and therapies:
- New light sources for cutaneous applications of light;
- New development in photobiomodulation;
- Photoplethysmogram (PPG) and iPPG (Imaging photoplethysmography) of skin for cardiovascular system health;
- Optical Coherence Tomography microscopy for cutaneous applications;
- The grace and power of flexible electronics, enabling light for health;
- Advances in Raman spectroscopy and imaging of the skin and hair;

Photoprotection from UV to visible and near-infrared light

Computational studies in skin physiology and pathophysiology:
- Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, predictive modelling for data analysis, diagnosis and treatment;
- Virtual reality for data analysis, diagnosis, treatment, and surgery.

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Dr. Babu Varghese is employed by Philips in the role of a senior scientist, and filed around 90 patents as a part of his research job at Philips.
All other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regards to the Research Topic subject.

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Frontiers in Physiology

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