Ashley Collins, MD; Department of Biochemistry, North Carolina State University; Adnan Nasir, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Abstract
Nanotechnology is a rapidly growing discipline that capitalizes on the unique properties of matter engineered on the nanoscale. Vehicles incorporating nanotechnology have led to great strides in drug delivery, allowing for increased active ingredient stability, bioavailability, and site-specific targeting. Botulinum toxin has historically been used for the correction of neurological and neuromuscular disorders, such as torticollis, blepharospasm, and strabismus. Recent dermatological indications have been for the management of axillary hyperhydrosis and facial rhytides. Traditional methods of botulinum toxin delivery have been needle-based. These have been associated with increased pain and cost. Newer methods of botulinum toxin formulation have yielded topical preparations that are bioactive in small pilot clinical studies. While there are some risks associated with topical delivery, the refinement and standardization of delivery systems and techniques for the topical administration of botulinum toxin using nanotechnology is anticipated in the near future.  (J Clin Aesthetic Dermatol. 2010;3(3):35–39.) Read the rest of this article »

Richard G. Fried, MD, PhD, Clinical Director, Yardley Dermatology Associates, Yardley, Pennsylvania; Wm. Philip Werschler, MD, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine and Dermatology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Tracy Floirendo, MA, Yardley Dermatology Associates, Yardley, Pennsylvania Read the rest of this article »