Objective assessment of facial skin aging and the associated environmental factors in Japanese monozygotic twins

Current progress and future perspectives in personal identification of monozygotic twins in forensic medicine

The personal identification of monozygotic (MZ) twins is of great importance in forensic medicine. Due to the extreme similarity in genetic between MZ twins, it is challenging to differentiate them using autosomal STR genotyping. Forensic experts are striving to explore available genetic markers that can differentiate between MZ twins. With the advent of next-generation sequence (NGS), an increasing number of genetic markers have been demonstrated to effectively differentiate between MZ twins. Here, we summarized for the relevant studies on MZ twins' differentiation and discussed the limitations of the underlying markers. In details, single-nucleotide variants (SNVs), copy number variation (CNV), mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), DNA methylation, and non-coding RNA have been demonstrated considerable value. Furthermore, the utilization of proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics has shed light on MZ twin differentiation. Additionally, we introduce the methodologies for MZ differentiation based on external morphological variations observed in the human body. Looking to the future, the process of aging may represent a novel avenue for the differentiation of MZ twins.

Hidden Links Between Skin Microbiome and Skin Imaging Phenome

Despite the skin microbiome has been linked to skin health and diseases, its role in modulating human skin appearance remains understudied. Using a total of 1244 face imaging phenomes and 246 cheek metagenomes, we first established three skin age indices by machine learning, including skin phenotype age (SPA), skin microbiota age (SMA), and skin integration age (SIA) as surrogates of phenotypic aging, microbial aging, and their combination, respectively. Moreover, we found that besides aging and gender as intrinsic factors, skin microbiome might also play a role in shaping skin imaging phenotypes (SIPs). Skin taxonomic and functional α diversity was positively linked to melanin, pore, pigment, and ultraviolet spot levels, but negatively linked to sebum, lightening, and porphyrin levels. Furthermore, certain species were correlated with specific SIPs, such as sebum and lightening levels negatively correlated with Corynebacterium matruchotii, Staphylococcus capitis, and Streptococcus sanguinis. Notably, we demonstrated skin microbial potential in predicting SIPs, among which the lightening level presented the least error of 1.8%. Lastly, we provided a reservoir of potential mechanisms through which skin microbiome adjusted the SIPs, including the modulation of pore, wrinkle, and sebum levels by cobalamin and heme synthesis pathways, predominantly driven by Cutibacterium acnes. This pioneering study unveils the paradigm for the hidden links between skin microbiome and skin imaging phenome, providing novel insights into how skin microbiome shapes skin appearance and its healthy aging.

Clinical vs. chronological skin age: exploring determinants and stratum corneum protein markers of differential skin ageing in 351 healthy women

Apparent skin age can be determined by several clinical measurements and may differ from chronological age, hence defining age acceleration/deceleration (Age A/D). Using data from 360 women with dermatological scoring of 21 clinical signs, we defined 3 well-separated co-occurring classes capturing the dryness, the elasticity and the oily nature of the skin. We related the risk of each clinical signs to the stratum corneum levels of 5 pre-selected proteins, we identified specific chronological age-adjusted signatures of each clinical sign. Using variable selection approaches, we identified 6 (of the 21) clinical signs which were jointly predictive of chronological age and used to define the clinical skin age, and subsequently age A/D. Applying univariate and multivariate approaches we found that stratum corneum levels of insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) was protective against (β = - 1.74, p = 3.3 × 10-6; selection proportion > 90%) accelerated skin ageing. In conclusion, our results support the fact that molecular markers found in the stratum corneum could predict skin ageing acceleration/deceleration.

Obesity, Glycemic Traits, Lifestyle Factors, and Risk of Facial Aging: A Mendelian Randomization Study in 423,999 Participants

BACKGROUND

Several recent observational studies have associated obesity, lifestyle factors (smoking, sleep duration, and alcohol drinking), and glycemic traits with facial aging. However, whether this relationship is causal due to confounding and reverse causation is yet to be substantiated.

AIMS

We aimed to assess these relationships using Mendelian randomization (MR).

METHODS

For the instrumental variables, this paper selected independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to the exposures at a genome-wide state (P < 5 × 10-8) in equivalent genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Using the UK Biobank, we obtained summary-level data for facial aging on 423,999 individuals. The primary assessments were performed through the combination of complementing techniques (simple method approaches, weighted model, MR-Egger, and weighted median) and the inverse-variance-weighted method. Along with that, we examined the heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy through different types of sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

The correlations were (a) facial aging for body mass index (BMI, OR = 1.054, 95% CI 1.044-1.64), (b) waist/hip ratio (OR = 1.056, 95% CI 1.023-1.091), and (c) smoking (OR = 1.023, 95% CI 1.007-1.039). Equally important, the correlations for waist/hip ratio remained robust after adjusting for the genetically predicted BMI (OR = 1.028, 95% CI 1.003-1.054). However, no causal effects of alcoholic drinking, glycemic traits, and sleep duration on facial aging were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes shed light on the potential correlation of obesity and cigarette smoking with facial aging while putting forward a more comprehensive and credible foundation for the optimization of facial aging strategies.

NO LEVEL ASSIGNED

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Safety and Effectiveness of Laser or Intense Pulsed Light Treatment for Early Surgical Scar: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of laser or intense pulsed light therapy for early treatment of surgical scar.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted for relevant prospective, randomized controlled trials published in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang Database, and VTTMS between January 2006 and January 2022. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist was used to extract literature data. The risk of bias was assessed by RevMan. Safety was assessed based on the presence of serious adverse reactions (blisters, infections, burns above the second degree), while effectiveness was assessed using the Vancouver Score Scale.

RESULTS

1512 related articles were preliminarily retrieved, including 1211 English articles and 301 Chinese articles. According to the inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria, 12 articles were selected for this analysis. In total, 475 patients were included (laser group, 238; control group, 236). All studies confirmed that the laser group was superior to the control group. In the subgroup analysis of 7 articles, the standardized mean difference was 1.99 (P = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis demonstrates that laser or intense pulsed light therapy is a safe and effective approach for early surgical scar treatment, resulting in improved scar appearance and minimal adverse reactions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Microbotox injection versus its topical application following microneedling in the treatment of wide facial pores: A split face comparative study

BACKGROUND

Enlarged facial pores and seborrhea are common cosmetic problems. Mesobotox has been proved to be effective safe therapeutic option.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and longevity of intradermal mesobotox injection versus its topical application with microneedling for treatment of wide facial pores and seborrhea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This split face study was conducted on 20 patients with enlarged facial pores and seborrhea. One side of the face was treated with intradermal injection of botulinum toxin, the other was treated with its topical application following microneedling. Patient evaluation was performed after 1 month then after 4 months.

CONCLUSION

Microbotox can effectively and safely minimize enlarged facial pores with no downtime. Intradermal injection showed more patient satisfaction on the basis of greater efficacy, longevity of treatment than its topical application following microneedling.

Skin Ageing: A Progressive, Multi-Factorial Condition Demanding an Integrated, Multilayer-Targeted Remedy

Of the human organs, skin is the most visible one that displays the manifestations of ageing. It has a very intricate microanatomical structure and performs several key physiological functions. The pathophysiology of cutaneous ageing is characterized by deterioration of structural stability and functional integrity, implying a continuous reduction in maximal function and reserve capacity, as a result of the accumulating damage due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Elimination of unfavorable expressions associated with facial and cutaneous ageing is the key patient demand in aesthetic dermatology. Even though the progress has been made in nonsurgical therapies like fillers and lasers, non-invasive interventions by using skin care products designed for rejuvenation at an early stage are the most popular and accessible solution among people. In this review, we have scrutinized the ageing-associated cutaneous changes at molecular, cellular and tissue levels. To optimize the ageing process towards a healthy skin, we propose an integrated, multilayer-targeted intervention, which involves both topical application of anti-ageing formulations from outside and oral supplementation from inside. Additionally, several promising naturally derived ingredients are reviewed from an anti-aging perspective. Most of them possess various bioactivities and may contribute to the development of the mentioned anti-ageing remedy.

Forearm porphyrin levels evaluated by digital imaging system are increased in patients with systemic sclerosis compared with patients in pre-clinical stage

We hypothesized that changes in skin characteristics on the forearm could be useful for early diagnosis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We used VISIA digital imaging system to investigate this possibility for the first time. Twenty-eight Japanese patients who were diagnosed with typical or very early diagnosis of SSc (VEDOSS) were enrolled in this study, and ten age- and gender-matched patients with other disorders were included as a control group. Eight skin characteristics were analyzed. Our method of evaluating forearm skin characteristics was shown to be reproducible. The scores of WRINKLES, TEXTURE, PORES, and PORPHYRINS were higher in SSc subjects with sclerotic forearm skin (SSc forearm+; 11.004, 5.116, 3.230, and 0.084, respectively) and those without (SSc forearm-: 11.915, 4.898, 2.624, 0.0616, respectively) than in the non-SSc control subjects (10.075, 4.496, 2.459, 0.0223, respectively). Also, the scores of SPOTS, TEXTURE, PORES, UV SPOTS, BROWN SPOTS, and PORPHYRINS were elevated in SSc forearm+ (3.182, 5.116, 3.230, 5.761, 6.704, 0.084, respectively) and SSc forearm- patients (2.391, 4.898, 2.624, 9.835, 5.798, 0.0616, respectively) compared with those with VEDOSS (2.362, 4.738, 2.234, 5.999, 4.898, 0.0169, respectively). We found statistical significance in the difference in score of PORPHYRINS between SSc forearm- and VEDOSS groups (p = 0.044), and between SSc forearm+ and VEDOSS groups (p = 0.012). Therefore, they can be used to differentiate VEDOSS from early or mild SSc cases, which is sometimes clinically problematic. Our study also suggests that the porphyrin research will lead to a better understanding of SSc pathogenesis.

Skin aging risk factors: A nationwide population study in Mongolia risk factors of skin aging

The world population is aging and no country is immune to the consequences. We are not aware of any country-specific skin aging risk factors data for the Mongolian people. Thus, we aimed to study the risk factors associated with skin aging in the Mongolian population. A population-based cross-sectional study of 2720 study participants 18 years of age and older was performed evaluating the severity of skin aging based on cutaneous microtopography. Questionnaire data and skin physiological measurements were obtained. The odds ratios for skin aging grades associated with risk factors were estimated using ordinal logistic regression. Study participant's mean age was 45 years, ranging from 18 to 87. After adjustment for known risk factors, skin aging was associated with demographic risk factors such as increasing age (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.18-1.20), living in an urban area (aOR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.12-1.55) and lifestyle factors including being a smoker (aOR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.09-1.61), having a higher body mass index (aOR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.06) and higher levels of sun exposure time (aOR = 1.03, 95% CI 1.00-1.06) were significantly associated with higher skin aging grades. Having dry (aOR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.45-2.59) and combination skin (aOR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.22-2.16) types were also independent risk factors associated with skin aging. Having very low skin surface moisture at the T-zone (aOR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.42-3.11) was significantly related to skin aging. Older age, urban living and toxic working conditions were independent demographic risk factors related to skin aging. Smoking, higher BMI, greater levels of sun exposure were significant lifestyle risk factors. Having a skin type other than normal was a physiologic risk factor for skin aging.

A new method for skin aging evaluation of Chinese women

BACKGROUND

With the development of cosmetic industry in China, an aging evaluation method of Chinese women is in great need.

AIMS

The aim of this study is to establish a skin aging assessment method using convenient portable machine Antera 3D.

METHODS

The quantitative approach was developed by capturing 11 areas of the face, and overall, 48 parameters were extracted for aging evaluation. Later, 297 subjects were recruited to take facial image and life style questionnaire. Evaluation of age was accomplished by establishing prediction method with detected skin traits.

RESULTS

The age prediction model was built by using the evaluated facial traits, and a R square of 0.6 is achieved by comparing to the chronological age. The crow's feet, cheek skin pigmentation, forehead skin tone, and wrinkles around the month are critical factors in evaluating Chinese women skin aging. In addition, we also explored life styles associated with important skin aging traits.

CONCLUSION

The method developed in this research provides reliable alternative in aging study of Chinese women.

Update on Osaka University Twin Registry: An Overview of Multidisciplinary Research Resources and Biobank at Osaka University Center for Twin Research

The Osaka University Twin Registry was originally established as a registry of older twins but was subsequently expanded to include twins of all ages. The Center for Twin Research at Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine has been managing this registry, as well as collecting research information and bioresources from twin participants. Based on the resources, multidisciplinary research projects have been conducted in collaboration with researchers from institutions both inside and outside Japan. One of the main aims of the center is to collect research information as well as biological resources from registered twins, and to establish a biobank and databases of these data and bioresources. Although data availability may vary, the following data have been collected: physical data (e.g., height, body weight, blood pressure, theoretical visceral fat, pulse wave velocity and bone density); epidemiological data (e.g., medical history, lifestyle, quality of life, mood status, cognitive function and nutritional status); electrocardiography, ultrasonography (carotid artery and thyroid); dentistry, dermatological assessment; positron emission tomography; magnetoencephalographam; brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and functional MRI. In addition to these in-person survey data, microbiome data have been collected from some participants. As for bioresources, peripheral blood is obtained from the participants for isolation of serum and extraction of DNA and RNA, then stored in deep freezers for further analyses. A variety of research projects are in progress and more are on the way both in Japan and internationally using these data.

The efficacy and safety of microneedle monopolar radiofrequency for the treatment of periorbital wrinkles

BACKGROUND

Treatment of periorbital wrinkles is a challenging task because of its anatomical significance and delicate nature.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a microneedle monopolar radiofrequency (RF) device for treating periorbital wrinkles.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This retrospective study involved 21 patients who were treated for periorbital wrinkles using a RF device. The type of microneedle used, clinical photography, VISIA wrinkle score, and adverse events were collected from the medical chart. Two independent dermatologists assessed the photographs.

RESULTS

There were 18 female and 3 male patients with a mean age of 50.24 years. The severity of wrinkle was improved according to photographic assessment and VISIA wrinkle score at 6-month post-treatment. When 21 sites treated with a long microneedle (LMN, 1.5 mm) and the other 21 sites treated with a short microneedle (SMN, 0.8 mm) were compared, significant improvement in the VISIA wrinkle score was observed only in those treated with the LMN. No serious adverse events, including scarring and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the efficacy and safety of the microneedle monopolar RF device in treating periorbital wrinkles. The LMN was superior to the SMN in reducing VISIA wrinkle score.

Age estimation based on visual parameters of the skin of cadavers

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported relationships between various visual parameters of the skin and changes due to aging. Due to an increase in the discovery of unidentified bodies, the field of forensic medicine anticipates the development of a rapid method for estimating age. The present study measured various visual parameters of the skin in human remains and investigated the correlation between these parameters and age.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Skin images were taken of four body parts (cheek, chin, brachium, and thigh) of 414 forensic cases. We interpreted eight visual parameters of the skin (smoothness, roughness, texture, dullness, brightness, erythema, color phase, and sagging) from skin photograph images, and constructed three age-prediction models, categorized by sex, postmortem interval, and age.

RESULTS

Significant correlations were observed in the erythema of the cheek and chin, the roughness of the brachium, and the texture of the brachium and thigh among the visual parameters calculated in four body parts, using the three models. The root-mean-square errors, which indicate the precision of the three prediction models, were 13.06, 13.80, and 13.77. The only model that demonstrated a correlation with the visual parameters was sex (but not age or postmortem interval).

CONCLUSION

Similar to living subjects, we observed a correlation with age for a number of visual parameters. The parameters that correlate with age depend on whether the site being measured was exposed to sunlight. Age estimation based on visual parameters requires measurement of visual parameters for skin both exposed and not exposed to sunlight.

OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment of moderate to severe glabellar lines in Chinese subjects after laser therapy: A prospective, open-label, noncomparative study

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluated safety and efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA for moderate to severe glabellar lines (GL) following laser therapy in Chinese subjects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects (n = 173) were followed for 120 days following a single onabotulinumtoxinA (20 U) treatment for GL after recent laser therapy. Subjects completed validated patient-reported outcomes, including Facial Lines Outcome 11-item (FLO-11) Questionnaire and Facial Lines Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLSQ). Physicians and subjects assessed GL severity at maximum frown and at rest using the Facial Wrinkle Scale with Asian Photonumeric Guide (FWS-A).

RESULTS

Mean total FLO-11 scores increased from 47.7 (baseline) to 75.9 (day 120) (p < 0.0001), with mean improvement of at least two grades for most items maintained to day 120. Most subjects were mostly or very satisfied, per the FLSQ. Percentages of subjects with at least one-grade improvement in FWS-A (responders) at maximum frown per subjects and physicians were 93.1% and 97.1%, respectively, at day 30, and 72.3% and 81.5% at day 120 (all, p < 0.0001). More than 70% were FWS-A responders at day 120. All adverse events were mild or moderate; none were related to onabotulinumtoxinA.

CONCLUSIONS

A single onabotulinumtoxinA (20 U) treatment following laser therapy was safe and effective in correcting GL for up to 120 days.

A Single-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of the Effectiveness of ANT1 Soybean Extract Cream on Skin Recovery After Nd: YAG Laser Treatment

Nd:YAG laser has been used extensively for its versatility in treating many common aesthetic problems, but numerous adverse effects are often complained by recipients of Nd:YAG laser. This study introduces the ANT1 soybean extract cream, which was formulated to alleviate adverse effects after laser therapy. This study explores whether ANT1 enhances the repair mechanism of the postlaser skin, decreases laser-induced complication, and shortens recovery time. The study also aims to pinpoint the ANT1 concentration that is most effective in improving the skin condition after Nd-YAG laser therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Patients eligible for the study were Asian women, aged 25 to 40 years, who were free of dermatological diseases and allergic reaction. There were a total of 45 subjects. Each subject received a session of Nd-YAG laser therapy every 2 weeks, totaling 3 sessions. Facial skin assessment was achieved via VISIA complexion analysis. VISIA complexion analysis quantitatively assessed the skin condition and tracked the recovery progress of each subject at baseline, immediately after all 3 laser sessions, and a week after the final laser treatment.

RESULTS

Skin condition was evaluated by VISIA complexion analysis. Skin condition was recorded in aspects of pigmented spots, wrinkles, texture, pores, and red area. After Nd-YAG laser therapy, postlaser inflammation was observed in all subjects. Throughout the laser sessions and the outpatient follow-up clinic, the adverse effects of laser therapy, such as redness, spots, wrinkles, pores, and textures, decreased with the use of ANT1 cream. There has been a marked effect in wrinkle reduction in the patients who received a higher concentration of ANT1 cream (P ≤ 0.05). Statistically significant improvement in spots and pores is also seen (P ≤ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Through this study, the results suggest that the application of ANT1 soybean extract cream ameliorates the complications and enhances the cosmetic effects of Nd-YAG laser therapy. A higher concentration of the ANT1 cream significantly reduces wrinkles and redness after laser. All in all, this study proves that the ANT1 soy extract cream may be a useful addition to postlaser care for an overall enhancement in skin condition and recovery.

Smoking status and attractiveness among exemplar and prototypical identical twins discordant for smoking

Smoking is associated with negative health of skin and increased signs of facial ageing. We aimed to address two questions about smoking and appearance: (1) does facial appearance alone provide an indication of smoking status, and (2) how does smoking affect the attractiveness of faces? We used faces of identical twins discordant for smoking, and prototypes made by averaging the faces of the twins. In Task 1, we presented exemplar twin sets and same sex prototypes side-by-side and participants (n = 590) indicated which face was the smoker. Participants were blind to smoking status. In Task 2 a separate sample (n = 580) indicated which face was more attractive. For the exemplar twin sets, there was inconclusive evidence participants selected the smoking twin as the smoker more often, or selected the non-smoking twin as the more attractive more often. For the prototypes, however, participants clearly selected the smoking prototypes as the smoker more often, and the non-smoking prototypes as the more attractive. Prototypical faces of non-smokers are judged more attractive, and prototypical faces of smokers are correctly identified as smokers more often than prototypical faces of matched smokers/non-smokers [corrected]. We discuss the possible use of these findings in smoking behaviour change interventions.

Redefining face contour with a novel anti-aging cosmetic product: an open-label, prospective clinical study

Background

Skin aging is accelerated by multiple extrinsic factors: ultraviolet radiation, smoking and pollution increase oxidative activity, damaging cellular and extracellular components such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. With age, collagen and hyaluronic acid levels decline, resulting in loss of elasticity and moisture of the skin. Over time this damage leads to characteristic signs that make the skin look older: altered facial contour, sagging skin, wrinkles, and an uneven complexion. This study evaluated the anti-aging effects of a new facial cream formulated with carnosine, Alteromonas ferment extract, crosspolymer hyaluronic acid, and a tripeptide.

Methods

An open-label intra-individual study to assess the anti-aging efficacy of the investigational product in 33 women aged 45 to 65 years. The product was applied twice daily for 56 days. Facial contour and skin deformation, elasticity, hydration, and complexion were measured with specialized equipment at baseline and days 28 and 56. Additionally, subjects completed questionnaires at days 28 and 56 on the perceived efficacy and cosmetic characteristics of the product.

Results

After 56 days of use of the investigational product, a redefining effect was observed, with a significant decrease in sagging jawline (7%). Skin was significantly more hydrated (12%), firmer (29%), and more elastic (20%) (P<0.001 for all). On complexion assessment, skin texture (a measure of skin smoothness) and spots (brown and red skin lesions) also improved significantly (12% and 6% decrease, respectively). In the subjective self-evaluation, the majority of subjects reported that the skin was visibly tightened and more elastic, flexible, and moisturized (91%, 88%, 91%, and 90%, respectively). The product was well tolerated with no adverse events reported during the study.

Conclusion

This new cosmetic product demonstrated anti-aging effects after 56 days of use, most notably a redefined facial contour and improved complexion. It is a safe and effective anti-aging product.

Nanofat-derived stem cells with platelet-rich fibrin improve facial contour remodeling and skin rejuvenation after autologous structural fat transplantation

Traditional autologous fat transplantation is a common surgical procedure for treating facial soft tissue depression and skin aging. However, the transplanted fat is easily absorbed, reducing the long-term efficacy of the procedure. Here, we examined the efficacy of nanofat-assisted autologous fat structural transplantation. Nanofat-derived stem cells (NFSCs) were isolated, mechanically emulsified, cultured, and characterized. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) enhanced proliferation and adipogenic differentiation of NFSCs in vitro. We then compared 62 test group patients with soft tissue depression or signs of aging who underwent combined nanofat, PRF, and autologous fat structural transplantation to control patients (77 cases) who underwent traditional autologous fat transplantation. Facial soft tissue depression symptoms and skin texture were improved to a greater extent after nanofat transplants than after traditional transplants, and the nanofat group had an overall satisfaction rate above 90%. These data suggest that NFSCs function similarly to mesenchymal stem cells and share many of the biological characteristics of traditional fat stem cell cultures. Transplants that combine newly-isolated nanofat, which has a rich stromal vascular fraction (SVF), with PRF and autologous structural fat granules may therefore be a safe, highly-effective, and long-lasting method for remodeling facial contours and rejuvenating the skin.

Comparison of two skin imaging analysis instruments: The VISIA® from Canfield vs the ANTERA 3D® CS from Miravex

BACKGROUND

The skin imaging analysis instruments are widely used to record and measure the surface and subsurface skin conditions. The main aim of this study is to reveal the differences and correlations in measuring wrinkle, skin texture, coloration/evenness, vascular features, and pore between two commercially available instruments.

METHODS

Twenty-eight subjects were enrolled in the study. A 2*2 cm cardboard was used to make sure the two instruments analyze the same area. Pictures were taken and analyzed by the VISIA^® from Canfield and the ANTERA 3D^® CS from Miravex, in sequence.

RESULTS

The spot, ultraviolet spot, brown spot, red area, texture values measured with VISIA^® were positively correlated with age, while the pore and wrinkle values showed no significance. The wrinkle, texture, melanin, hemoglobin, pore index, pore volume values measured with ANTERA 3D^® had a significantly positive correlation with age. The spot, brown spot values from VISIA^® were positively correlated with the melanin value from ANTERA 3D^® . Texture value measured with the two instruments revealed positive linear correlation. Strong correlation was found between the red area value from VISIA^® and the hemoglobin value from ANTERA 3D^® . Ultraviolet spot from VISIA^® showed no linear correlation with the melanin value from ANTERA 3D^® . Neither of the wrinkle and pore measured with the two instruments showed linear correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

ANTERA 3D^® relies on multidirectional illumination obtained by LEDs of different wavelengths from different directions which make it advanced at the qualitative evaluation of various dermatologic conditions. Compared with VISIA^® , ANTERA 3D^® is more sensitive in the assessment of wrinkle and it may also be available to evaluate the aging-related enlarged pore.

Oxidization of squalene, a human skin lipid: a new and reliable marker of environmental pollution studies

A review of the oxidization of squalene, a specific human compound produced by the sebaceous gland, is proposed. Such chemical transformation induces important consequences at various levels. Squalene by-products, mostly under peroxidized forms, lead to comedogenesis, contribute to the development of inflammatory acne and possibly modify the skin relief (wrinkling). Experimental conditions of oxidation and/or photo-oxidation mechanisms are exposed, suggesting that they could possibly be bio-markers of atmospheric pollution upon skin. Ozone, long UVA rays, cigarette smoke… are shown powerful oxidizing agents of squalene. Some in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo testings are proposed as examples, aiming at studying ingredients or products capable of boosting or counteracting such chemical changes that, globally, bring adverse effects to various cutaneous compartments.

Wrinkles

INTRODUCTION

Skin disorders associated with photodamage from ultraviolet light include wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, tactile roughness, and telangiectasia, and are more common in people with white skin compared with other skin types. Wrinkles are also associated with ageing, hormonal status, smoking, and intercurrent disease.

METHODS AND OUTCOMES

We conducted a systematic review and aimed to answer the following clinical question: What are the effects of treatments for skin wrinkles? We searched: Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and other important databases up to February 2014 (Clinical Evidence reviews are updated periodically; please check our website for the most up-to-date version of this review). We included harms alerts from relevant organisations such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

RESULTS

We found 33 studies that met our inclusion criteria. We performed a GRADE evaluation of the quality of evidence for interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

In this systematic review we present information relating to the effectiveness and safety of the following interventions: botulinum toxin injection (e.g., botulinum toxin type A and type B), carbon dioxide laser, chemical peel (including alpha and beta hydroxyl acids), dermabrasion, isotretinoin, tazarotene, tretinoin, and variable pulse erbium:YAG laser.