Computer graphics has revolutionized the realm of scientific research, and graphical models are now constantly being used to understand complex biomedical behavior. This book immerses you in one of the most fascinating application areas of this field: the predictive simulation of skin appearance under radically different circumstances. It first brings together the most current knowledge about the biophysical processes that affect skin appearance (for example, think how the sun can burn or tan you), and then examines the algorithms and techniques used to model such processes. Despite its wide scope of applications, the books contents are presented in a concise manner, focusing on practical implementation details, sample code, and data sources. For the graphics professional intent on exploring the exciting possibilities of simulation, here is a self-contained introduction to the scientific ideas and rendering procedures that will bring your visions to life.