METHODS FOR GEOLOCATION-BASED SKIN SCIENCE-DRIVEN ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE METRICS

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application outlines methods for assessing and communicating the risk of skin conditions due to environmental exposure, particularly sunlight and pollutants. Utilizing geolocation data, the system calculates a photo-pollution metric, which is a function of the ultraviolet index (UVI) and pollutant levels such as particulate matter (PM). This metric helps individuals make informed decisions about outdoor activities, healthcare, and skincare by understanding their exposure risk.

Methodology

The process involves determining the UVI and pollutant levels specific to a person's location. These inputs are used to calculate the photo-pollution metric, which indicates the risk of exposome-induced skin conditions. The calculated risk is then communicated to the individual. This approach allows for personalized guidance based on real-time environmental data, enhancing awareness and proactive management of skin health.

Applications

Various applications are described for this technology. It can be integrated into consumer products to provide skincare recommendations or used in clinical studies to track environmental exposure impacts on skin health. The system can also serve as a tool for healthcare management, offering insights into potential skin damage risks due to environmental factors.

Technical Implementation

The system leverages mobile devices to gather geolocation data, which is processed alongside pollution data from external sources. An API allows smartphone applications to access this data, either processing it locally or sending it to a cloud-based platform for further analysis. The resulting photo-pollution metric can be presented to users with additional environmental data and personalized health tips.

Significance

Addressing a gap in current skin health management, this method integrates environmental exposure metrics with personal geolocation data to provide actionable insights. It simplifies complex environmental interactions into an understandable format, empowering users with little prior knowledge about environmental impacts on skin health. This innovation has potential applications across consumer and clinical domains, enhancing decision-making in skincare and healthcare.