Photoaging assessment by Glogau classification: correlation of dermoscopy findings in the coastal population of Indonesia

Introduction: To date, there is no gold standard for identifying photoaging. This study investigates the correlation of photoaging profiles based on the Glogau scale and the dermoscopy photoaging scale (DPAS) in a coastal population. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Cilincing Municipal Health Center in Jakarta in October 2022. Individuals living in the coastal area, 20 years and older, with Fitzpatrick skin types III–V, and with a mean daily sun exposure of ≥ 3 hours were included. The Glogau scale and DPAS were assessed through history taking, physical examination, and dermoscopic examination. A Spearman correlation test was used to assess the correlation between the Glogau scale and DPAS. Results: Thirty individuals with a mean age of 41.5 ± 11.5 years participated in the study. The median Glogau score was 3 (range: 2–4). The mean DPAS score was 28.5 ± 5.6. Lentigo, hypo-hyperpigmented macules, telangiectasia, deep wrinkles, and superficial wrinkles were observed in all subjects. There was a moderate positive correlation between the Glogau scale and DPAS (r = 0.536, p = 0.002). Conclusions: The Glogau scale has a significant correlation with DPAS. DPAS can serve as a reliable, easy, practical, and fast diagnostic tool to assess the severity of aging.