Introduction: Facial photoaging is a complex biological process that is triggered by both internal and external factors. Laxity, rough texture, telangiectasia, dyschromia, and wrinkles are its defining features. Sun exposure is the primary cause of extrinsic aging, also known as photoaging, which results in a reduction in the amount and caliber of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis.
Aim of the study: To study and evaluate the dermoscopic features of facial photoaging.
Subjects and Methods: This study included 52 female subjects aged (25-70) years old. Each subject`s face was examined by the dermoscope to detect different dermoscopic features according to the dermoscopic photoaging scale (DPAS).
Results: The most frequently seen dermoscopic features of DPAS was superficial wrinkles, followed by telangiectasia, lentigo and yellowish discoloration. While, the least seen feature was criss-cross wrinkles. Also, there was a highly statistically significant difference between DPAS score and each of sun exposure and usage of sunblock (p<0.001), where cases exposed to sun for one hour per day showed the least mean DPAS value. Also, cases used sun block showed lower mean value of DPAS. On the other hand, there was non-significant difference between DPAS score and Skin type (p>0.05).
Conclusions: Dermoscopy is a highly valuable tool in assessing different signs and grades of photoaging. There was an increasement of DPAS score with aging, sun exposure and non-use of sun screens. Therefore, dermoscopy is a good technique which detects different grades of photoaging and helps in proper choice of different targeted treatment options.