Abstract
Although infrared radiation (IRR) is ubiquitous in the terrestrial milieu, its effects on human skin have until now been largely ignored. Recent studies suggest an important role for infrared A (IRA) radiation (760-1440 nm) in dermal inflammation, photoaging, and photocarcinogenesis. In this issue, Calles et al. identify and analyze the IRA-induced transcriptome in human dermal fibroblasts. Their work paves the way for new research directions in IRA photobiology and raises important clinical questions regarding photoprotection and IRR-based dermatotherapy.