Recently the VISIA Complexion Analysis System has been in the news as a device which allows you to "know your skin's true age." The device allows the cosmetic practitioner and patient to see sun damage, fine wrinkles and other developing skin flaws. I am not sure that I would say what one sees with this device determines the age of the skin, but rather the amount of damage related to the environment including sun exposure, cigarette smoking, etc. that has been to your genetically predetermined rate of aging.

I do see some benefit, however, in providing the patient and physician with a baseline visual display of the skin.  This provides a means by which the physician and patient can visualize and record areas that require treatment and then measure the efficacy of any treatment programs.  The VISIA system is not the only such system on the market.  Furthermore, I would hesitate to alarm patients by telling them that 'their skin is ten years older than the rest of them!" as this is just marketing at its best!