Medical Research Studies

Join one of our studies
About

Medical Research Trials

Thank you for your interest in West Dermatology’s research studies. Your interest and participation help us remain at the forefront of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology while maintaining the highest standards expected of healthcare. Our research studies are conducted by board-certified dermatologists who are dedicated to the future of dermatology, and by participating in our studies, you’ll help advance all aspects of dermatology while optimizing both the health of your skin and your overall appearance.

Our studies are critical to the FDA, as they approve treatments and devices like topical medications, injectables, lasers, non-invasive procedures, and more. But as a patient of ours, there's nothing to be afraid of. The strict standards of each trial means your safety and health are assured while giving you access to the latest treatments and technologies.

Interested in participating in an exciting and groundbreaking clinical research study? Call (858) 657-1004 and a member of our research team will walk you through the process.
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Call (858) 657-1004
Good To Know

What To Expect

West Dermatology has been conducting clinical trials in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology for more than 20 years. Our dedication to the advancement of services, techniques, and technology ensures that we help others overcome their skin concerns and achieve their aesthetic goals.

Studies can last 2 - 6 months, sometimes longer. In participating, you may be required to visit our office monthly, take the prescribed medications precisely as instructed, adhere to daily or weekly regimens, and often keep a treatment journal. You’ll always be in the hands of caring professionals dedicated to your safety and health as we help develop products, therapies, and devices for the future of dermatology.

Call (858) 657-1004 to see if you are a good fit for any of our studies.
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Who Qualifies

Candidates

Candidates differ depending on the trial being conducted, but typically, if you’re in good health, are over the age of 18, and want to be part of advancing the future of medicine, you’re likely an ideal candidate. However, please be aware that each trial has distinct guidelines, such as strict participation criteria, and requires patients with very specific conditions.

Together with West Dermatology, you’ll help bring the future of skincare to today’s patients. Call (858) 657-1004 to see if one of our studies is a good match for you.
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We’re Recruiting For

Available Studies

July 20, 2021

CHEST WRINKLES

For fine lines and wrinkling in the Decollete

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For Healthy Females 35-65 years old Concern: For fine lines and wrinkling in the Decollete Study Specifics: This trial will use Ulthera (focused ultrasound energy) to improve moderate to severe chest wrinkles. Duration: 3 months (3 visits, 3 phone calls) Compensation: Up to $175 to be paid at the end of the study

To participate, you MUST:

  • Healthy Females 35-65 years old

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2021

BODY CONTOURING

Visible fat bulges in the abdomen, flanks, or other areas For Healthy Male /Female 22-65 years old with BMI less than 30

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Concern: Visible fat bulges in the abdomen, flanks, or other areas Study Specifics: post-marketing study evaluating the use of CoolSculpting Elite and CoolSculpting Elite applicators for noninvasive fat reduction of the abdomen, flanks, upper arms, inner thighs, outer thighs, and submental area Duration: 20 Weeks/ 9 Visits Compensation: Up to $500

To participate, you MUST:

  • Healthy Male /Female 22-65 years old with BMI less than 30

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2021

ADOLESCENT PLAQUE PSORIASIS

Plaque Psoriasis in Adolescents with at least 10 percent of their body affected

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For Healthy Males/Females 12-17 years old Concern: Plaque Psoriasis in Adolescents with at least 10 percent of their body affected Study Specifics: This trial will use biologic medication to help improve Plaque Psoriasis. Duration: Up to 1 year Compensation: $52 per visit, up to 9 visits. This will be paid out at the end of the study.

To participate, you MUST:

  • For Healthy Males/Females 12-17 years old

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2021

CELLULITE FOR BUTTOCK AND THIGHS

Mild to moderate cellulite in the thighs and/or buttocks

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Study Specifics: For healthy women, age 30-60. This trial will use Sculptra injections to potentially improve the overall impression of cellulite. Duration: 12 months (6 visits) Compensation: Up to $400

To participate, you MUST:

  • Healthy Female 30 - 60

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2021

SUBMENTAL FAT REDUCTION/DOUBLE CHIN

Visible fat under the chin

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For Healthy Male /Female 18-65 years old with BMI less than 40 Concern: Visible fat under the chin Study Specifics: study evaluating the use of injectable RZL-012 versus placebo for noninvasive fat reduction of the submental area (under the chin). MRI’s will be taken before and after treatment for analyzing for eligibility and results. Duration: 4 Months/ 6 Visits to Clinic/ 2 Visits to nearby MRI Center Compensation: Up to $450

To participate, you MUST:

  • For Healthy Male /Female 18-65 years old with BMI less than 40

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2021

SUSPICIOUS MOLE?

For Males/Females 18 years an older with a pigmented skin lesion which will be evaluated to rule out the presence of melanoma

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For Males/Females 18 years an older with a pigmented skin lesion which will be evaluated to rule out the presence of melanoma Concern: Abnormal moles, nevi, or pigmented skin lesions on body Study Specifics: Collecting Skin Fluorescence Imaging to provide non-invasive data about atypical skin lesions Duration: 2 visits Compensation: up to $50

To participate, you MUST:

  • For Males/Females 18 years an older with a pigmented skin lesion which will be evaluated to rule out the presence of melanoma

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2021

VITILIGO

Healthy Males/Females 18 years and older Concern: Vitiligo

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Study Specifics: This study will utilize RECELL for the repigmentation of stable vitiligo lesions Duration:Approximately 1 year Compensation:Up to $1350 paid out at the end of the study

To participate, you MUST:

  • Healthy Males/Females 18 years and older

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

April 29, 2021

PSORIASIS MICRONEEDLE PATCH

Healthy Male / Female Ages 18+ Concern: Observational study to examine RNA biomarkers of psoriasis subjects through the application of a Microneedle patch

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Study Specifics: For male or female patients 18+ who have been diagnosed with Psoriasis with the affected area greater than 2 cm in diameter. Patients must be treated with IL-17 (Cosentyx) and IL-23 (Skyrizi/Tremfya/Iilumya) therapy once enrolled. Duration: 16 weeks Compensation: ($50 per visit)

To participate, you MUST:

  • Healthy Male / Female Ages 18+

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

April 29, 2021

STASIS DERMATITIS

For Healthy Males/Females 45 years and older with Stasis Dermatitis Concern: Stasis Dermatitis without ulceration

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Study Specifics: This trial will use a topical medication to help improve Stasis Dermatitis. This trial will be preformed remotely with virtual visits and home visits. Duration: 14 weeks Compensation: Up to $300 to be paid at the end of the study

To participate, you MUST:

  • For Healthy Males/Females 45 years and older with Stasis Dermatitis

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

April 29, 2021

BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

Concern: At least one basal cell located on the body. Study Specifics: For men and women, age 18+.

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This trial includes using a topical along with photodynamic therapy in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma. Duration: 8 months (10 visits) Compensation:Up to $2600 Status:Enrolling

To participate, you MUST:

  • For men and women, age 18+.

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

April 29, 2021

VENOUS MALFORMATIONS

Concern: Venous, Lymphatic or Mixed Malformations associated with PIK3CA or TEK genetic mutations

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Study Specifics: Male or Female patients age 18-60 with Venous Malformations. This trial will use topical medication to help treat Venous, Lymphatic, or Mixed Malformations. Duration: 14 weeks Compensation: Up to $350 ($50 per visit)

To participate, you MUST:

  • Male or Female patients age 18-60 with Venous Malformations.

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Decollete (Chest Wrinkles)

Concern: Chest wrinkles Study Specifics: For healthy women, age 35-65. This trial uses a topical cream for chest rejuvenation to improve wrinkles and sun damage.

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Duration: 6 months (6 visits)

To participate, you MUST:

  • For Healthy women, aged 35-65

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Merz Ultra I Study (M602011071) Upper facial lines

Concern: Moderate to severe crow’s feet(lateral canthal lines), glabellar lines(frown lines), and Upper facial lines(forehead wrinkles).

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Study Specifics: For healthy men and women (nonpregnant) 18+. This trial uses Botulinum toxin type A to improve upper facial lines. Duration: Approximately 4 months Compensation: $50 per visit

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Laser Hair Removal for Red, Grey, Blonde

Concern: Unwanted hair in armpit area

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Study specifics: For women ages 18-70. This trial uses a new treatment for underarm hair reduction in females with naturally light hair such as grey, blonde, or red. Duration: 4 months (5 visits) Compensation: $20 per visit

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Concern: At least one basal cell located on the body.

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Study Specifics: For men and women, age 18+. This trial includes using a topical along with photodynamic therapy in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma. Duration: 8 months (10 visits) Compensation: Up to $2600

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Periorbital Hyperpigmentation (Dark Circles)

Concern: Dark circles under the eye

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Study Specifics: For healthy men and women, ages 18 – 65. Must have mild to moderate Periorbital Hyperpigmentation (confirmed at our office). If qualified and enrolled, you may be compensated with up to $125.00 USD. Duration: 5 months

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Mindera Psoriasis Microneedle Patch

Concern: Observational study of Psoriasis

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Study Specifics: For male or female patients 18+ who have been diagnosed with Psoriasis with the affected area greater than 2 cm in diameter. Duration: 12 weeks Compensation: up to $350 ($50 per visit)

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Sculptra Galderma Cheek Injectables Study

Concern: Cheek wrinkles for darker skin only.

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Study Specifics: A trial using Sculptra filler for the correction of cheek wrinkles for darker skin. Duration: 12 months / visit (may vary). Compensation: $50 per visit

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Bausch IPL Vs Clear & Brilliant

Concern: Photodamaged skin

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Study Specifics: Male or Females 18-65 with Fitzpatrick Skin types I-III. Patients must have mild to moderate photodamage (brown spots/fine wrinkles/redness) Duration: 4 months Compensation: NOT PAID

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

September 25, 2020

Atopic Dermatitis

Concern: Eczema

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Study Specifics: For men and women, age 35-55. This trial uses a topical cream for the treatment of adult and adolescent atopic dermatitis. Duration: 15 months (11 visits) Compensation: $50 per visit

To participate, you MUST:

  • For men and women aged 35-55

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

July 20, 2020

Venous Malformations

Concern: Venous, Lymphatic or Mixed Malformations associated with PIK3CA or TEK genetic mutations

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Study Specifics: Male or Female patients 18-60 yrs old with clinically of phenotypically defined VM, LM, or mixed VLM affecting the skin Duration: 14 weeks Patient Compensation: Up to $350 ($50 per visit)

To participate, you MUST:

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

December 16, 2019

Laser Hair Removal

Would you like to reduce unwanted underarm hair?

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Concern: Underarm hair Study Specifics: A trial using a new treatment for underarm hair reduction in females with naturally light hair such as grey, blonde or red. Duration: 4 months (5 visits) Compensation: $20 every completed visit / up to $100

To participate, you MUST:

  • Must be between ages 18 - 70
  • Healthy Female

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

May 9, 2019

Sclerotherapy

Do you have leg veins?

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We're conducting a trial for leg veins. Contact our research department to take part in a research study involving treatment. $$ Requires payment from subject – $333

To participate, you MUST:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

May 9, 2019

Atopic Dermatitis

Do you have Atopic Dermatitis?

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Concern: Eczema Study Specifics: This trial uses a topical cream for the treatment of adult and adolescent atopic dermatitis. Duration: 15 months (11 visits)

To participate, you MUST:

  • Must be 12 years of age or older
  • Healthy Male and/or Female

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

May 9, 2019

Fraxel Study

Do you have facial hyperpigmentation and photodamage?

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Concern: Facial hyperpigmentation and photodamage Study Specifics: This trial uses an FDA approved laser, along with a topical cream for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation and photodamage. Duration: 6 months / 6 visits Compensation: Treatments are complimentary

To participate, you MUST:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Healthy Male and/or Female

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

January 3, 2018

Cheek Wrinkles

Do you have unwanted cheek wrinkles that make you look older than you feel?

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Concern: Unwanted cheek wrinkles Study Specifics: Trial using sculpture filler for the correction of cheek wrinkles Duration: 12 months (# of visits vary) Compensation: $50 every completed visit

To participate, you MUST:

  • Must be 21 years of age or older
  • Must have facial wrinkles
  • Healthy Male and/or Female

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.

December 8, 2017

Basal Cell

Do you have Basal Cell Carcinoma(s)?

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Concern: Superficial basal cell carcinoma (skin cancer) Study Specifics: This trial includes using a topical along with photodynamic therapy in the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma. If you have basal cell carcinomas, you may be eligible to take part in this clinical trial that involves treating your skin cancers. Duration: 8 months (10 visits) Compensation: $260 every completed visit / up to $2600

To participate, you MUST:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Healthy Male and/or Female

You will NOT be eligible:

Additional inclusion/exclusion criteria will apply.

For more information, call our research department.