This special double edition of the Journal starts of the 15 articles related to energy based devices. Twelve articles describe the use of lasers; 2 studies surround intense pulsed light technologies and one a combined use of radiofrequency and ultrasound for aesthetic purposes. Of note the studies look at the full gamut of aesthetic treatment indications from unwanted pigment to scars and vascular lesions –as well as skin laxity.
Subsequent studies look at issues related to hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite – commonly used fillers. The final 2 fascinating articles look at the increasingly popular use of threads for mandibular contouring and an alternative look at treating an ongoing perplexing issue - the natural option approach for treating melasma.
With this issue of the Journal, I now end my almost 2 decades as Chief Editor. I am proud of the many achievements we have all seen over these 20 years. Initially solely a laser journal, we changed the name and the substance of the journal to cover all aspects of non-invasive aesthetic medicine. Initially the journal only was published 3 times a year, then 4, and now 6 times a year. The journal also became a widely cited journal with a quality impact factor. None of this would have occurred without all of the quality studies submitted to the journal from all corners of the globe. I thank the authors, you the readers and equally important all of the wonderful people that I have worked with at Taylor and Francis, the publisher of this great journal.
Eventually the time comes to pass on the baton. That time is now.
Enjoy!