Blog: Alpha Hydroxy Acid Pioneers Honored
Dr. Eugene J. Van Scott and Dr. Ruey J. Yu, discoverers of the beneficial properties of alpha hydroxy acids, will be honored at the Cosmetic Surgery Forum in Las Vegas next month with the Innovators in Cosmetic Dermatology award.
Dr. Van Scott and Dr. Yu initiated pioneering research in the 1970s on the effectiveness of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) for treating a variety of skin conditions. Their work led to a revolution in dermatology and in the skin care market, according to Dr. Joel Schlessinger, who will present them with the award. Their research sparked the development of new products and new thinking beyond the conventional understanding of skin products sitting on the surface and providing cover for the skin, added Dr. Schlessinger, who practices in Omaha, Neb.
This new era in skin care was more than just the development of new products, but a paradigm shift in the understanding of the potential of skin treatments to heal and improve aging skin.
AHAs penetrate the skin and work on its structure to reduce keratinization and promote rejuvenation.
Dr. Van Scott and Dr. Yu were brought together in the 1970s at Temple University Medical School in Philadelphia by their mutual interest in treating ichthyosis. Their research led to the discovery of the potential of AHAs to penetrate the outer layers of the epidermis and facilitate the process of exuviation.
AHAs are now used in countless over-the-counter and prescriptions formulations to treat and repair prematurely aged or damaged skin. Other applications have been developed for treatment of acne and age spots. The discoveries about AHAs have led to the development of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) and bionic acids, such as lactobionic acid.
In 1988, Dr. Van Scott and Dr. Yu founded NeoStrata which has developed a large number of skin products based on AHAs and has over 100 patents in the field.
The award will be presented to Dr. Van Scott and Dr. Yu at the Cosmetic Surgery Forum 2010: Discussions in Dermatology meeting on Dec. 2-4, 2010 in Las Vegas.
NeoStrata is among several sponsors of the meeting.
–Therese Borden