Dermatology Redefines Beauty With New Inclusive Assessment Framework

DEERFIELD, IL – December 29, 2025 – The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) today announced a landmark step toward a more inclusive and personalized era of aesthetic medicine with the release of a special issue of its official scientific journal, Dermatologic Surgery. Titled 'Facial Assessment in a Diverse World,' the publication introduces a comprehensive new framework designed to move the practice of facial rejuvenation beyond outdated, Western-centric beauty norms.

Guest-edited and lead-authored by ASDS President Kavita Mariwalla, MD, the issue provides dermatologists with a practical, structured approach for consultations that are sensitive to the diverse anatomical, cultural, and psychological needs of today's global patient population. This initiative aims to standardize facial evaluations while championing individuality, ensuring equitable and precise care for every person seeking aesthetic treatment.

Redefining Beauty Beyond Western Norms

For decades, the field of aesthetics has been guided by neoclassical proportions and ideals rooted in European ancestry. The special issue directly confronts the limitations of this one-size-fits-all model, arguing that it fails to reflect the aesthetic goals and unique facial structures of a diverse world. The publication is the culmination of an expert panel's review of global beauty standards, ethnic variations in anatomy, and extensive market research on the aesthetic preferences of different racial, gender, and ethnic groups.

The findings confirm significant variability in what is considered beautiful across cultures and highlight distinct aging patterns among individuals of African, East Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American descent. The articles within the issue provide detailed guidance for culturally sensitive assessment of the entire face—from the forehead and periorbital region to the neck and jawline. This represents a critical shift from imposing a singular standard to co-creating a treatment plan that aligns with a patient's personal and cultural identity.

By equipping practitioners with a deeper understanding of diverse facial morphologies, the framework promotes a more equitable approach to aesthetic medicine. The goal is to ensure that treatment recommendations are not based on a narrow, historical ideal but on a scientific and empathetic understanding of each patient's unique features and desired outcomes. This move is celebrated by many in the field as a necessary evolution, reflecting a broader societal push for inclusivity and the celebration of individuality.

The Technological Leap in Personalization

Central to implementing this new, individualized approach is the integration of sophisticated digital tools. The special issue details the use of emerging technologies, highlighting the Galderma Facial Assessment Scale (FAS™) and its companion augmented-reality (AR) application, FACE by Galderma™.

The Galderma FAS™ provides a structured, five-domain framework that guides the clinician through a systematic evaluation. The five facets—Skin Quality, Facial Shape, Proportions, Symmetry, and Expression—allow for an objective, gradable assessment that can be adapted to any ethnic or cultural background. This standardized method helps practitioners identify treatment priorities in a consistent way, creating a clear and logical foundation for building a personalized treatment plan that balances objective analysis with the patient's subjective goals.

Complementing this scale is the FACE by Galderma™ application, an innovative AR tool launched in 2023. This technology transforms the consultation process by allowing patients and practitioners to visualize potential injectable treatment results in real-time. By simulating a 'before and after' on the patient's own face, the app demystifies the potential outcomes, helps manage expectations, and empowers patients to make more confident decisions. This interactive experience fosters better communication and ensures that both patient and doctor are aligned on the treatment journey, a key factor in achieving high satisfaction.

A Holistic Approach: The Whole Patient, Not Just the Face

Beyond anatomical precision and technological innovation, the new framework champions a profoundly holistic philosophy summarized as assessing the 'whole face in the context of the whole patient.' This approach urges dermatologists to look beyond isolated wrinkles or areas of volume loss and consider the intricate interplay of anatomical, psychological, and cultural factors that shape a person's sense of self.

The special issue advocates for a consultation process that prioritizes empathy and active listening, seeking to understand the patient's motivations, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. This patient-centered model acknowledges that aesthetic treatments are not merely superficial enhancements but can be deeply connected to self-esteem and identity. By integrating these dimensions, practitioners can deliver results that are not only aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking but also psychologically affirming.

This holistic perspective is part of a growing trend toward 'mindful aesthetics,' where the focus is on overall well-being rather than the pursuit of an abstract perfection. It reframes the goal of facial rejuvenation from 'anti-aging' to 'positive aging,' helping patients feel confident and refreshed at any stage of life. This shift is critical for ensuring long-term patient satisfaction and building trust, positioning the dermatologic surgeon as a true partner in the patient's health and wellness journey.

Setting a New Standard for Dermatologic Training

The release of 'Facial Assessment in a Diverse World' is poised to have a lasting impact on the education and training of aesthetic practitioners. By providing a clear, evidence-based, and practical framework, the special issue serves as a vital resource for both seasoned dermatologists and residents entering the field. It directly addresses a recognized gap in medical training, which has historically lacked sufficient focus on treating diverse skin types and understanding multicultural aesthetic preferences.

This initiative aligns with broader efforts within dermatology to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion. Organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) have launched programs to increase the number of underrepresented minorities in the specialty, fostering a more inclusive professional environment. The principles and tools outlined in the special issue are expected to be integrated into dermatology residency curricula and continuing medical education (CME) courses, establishing a new benchmark for clinical excellence.

By arming the next generation of dermatologists with the knowledge and tools for culturally competent care, the ASDS is helping to shape a future where the aesthetics industry is more responsive, equitable, and effective for all. This comprehensive approach signals a future where aesthetic medicine is not just about altering appearances, but about affirming individual identity in a diverse world.