Skin boosters: Definitions and varied classifications

Skin-Booster Injection on the Left and Right Sides: Which Side Is More Painful?

BACKGROUND

Skin booster injections using agents such as hyaluronic acid and poly-D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA, Juvelook, VAIM GLOBAL Inc., Korea) are commonly used to enhance skin texture and reduce wrinkles. However, pain during injection remains a limiting factor in patient compliance and comfort.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether there is a difference in perceived pain between the left and right facial sides during PDLLA skin-booster injections.

METHODS

Twenty Korean patients (13 females, 7 males; aged 22-67) received intradermal PDLLA injections in both cheeks over four treatment sessions at three-week intervals. Pain intensity was recorded immediately after each injection using the visual analogue scale. Differences in pain perception were analyzed by side, sex, and age.

RESULTS

The left side consistently showed higher visual analogue scale pain scores compared to the right side (p < .05). While males initially reported higher pain levels than females, this difference attenuated over repeated sessions. No significant correlation was found between age and pain perception.

CONCLUSION

PDLLA skin-booster injections are perceived as more painful on the left side of the face, possibly due to right hemispheric dominance in pain processing. Recognizing such lateralized pain responses may enhance patient comfort and inform clinical practice. Further studies with larger sample sizes and consideration of injector handedness are warranted.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety of a Highly Purified Polynucleotide for Dry and Chapped Lips: A Prospective, Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Dry and chapped lips are a common nuisance. Besides the discomfort, many report feeling embarrassed over the unsightly appearance of their chapped lips. The aim of this study was to determine if polynucleotide (PN) injection helps relieve lip dryness and assess safety in practicing PN in this specific area.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 30 Korean subjects with dry and chapped lips enrolled to receive PN injection on the vermilion zone (a total of 3 injections, each 3 weeks apart). Vermilion wrinkle and roughness were scored based on the photos taken pretreatment (week 0); before the 2nd and 3rd injection (week 3, week 6); and 3 weeks after the 3rd injection (week 9) using the respective severity rating scales. Safety data were obtained throughout the study period.

RESULTS

A total of 27 individuals completed the study. PN significantly improved both the vermilion wrinkles (assessed by the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS)) and roughness (assessed by the Lip Roughness Grading Scale (LRGS)) at all time points compared to baseline (p < 0.05). The WSRS response rate (Ratio of subjects whose WRSR decreased by ≥ 1 point compared to baseline) at week 9 was 100%. Lip swelling was experienced by all subjects when examined 30 min after PN injection, followed by pain (90%) and redness (77%). The injection site adverse reactions were mostly mild and transient.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that PN may be a promising option to soothe dry and chapped lips. However, larger studies with long-term follow-up are necessary to confirm the preliminary findings of this study.

Lactobacillus-Derived Exosome Therapy for Active Acne Vulgaris, Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, and Atrophic Scarring

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris often leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and atrophic scarring, affecting patients' quality of life. Traditional treatments may have side effects and inconsistent efficacy. An imbalance in the skin microbiome, particularly a deficiency in Lactobacillus species, has been implicated in acne pathogenesis. Lactobacillus-derived exosomes (LDE) offer a novel, cell-free therapeutic approach with anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties.

OBJECTIVE

This case series evaluates the efficacy and safety of LDE therapy combined with microneedling in patients with active acne, PIH, and atrophic scarring.

METHODS

Three patients with moderate to severe acne [Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) scores 2-4], visible PIH, and atrophic scarring underwent biweekly microneedling treatments followed by topical application of LDE (BLESKIN EXXO, Daeyang Medical) over 2 months. Assessments were conducted at baseline and 2-month post-treatment, utilizing the IGA scale for acne severity, the Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation Area and Severity Index (PIHASI) for PIH, and the Goodman and Baron Scarring Grading System for atrophic scarring. Two independent, blinded dermatologists evaluated clinical photographs and scored all outcomes. Patient satisfaction was recorded on a 10-point Likert scale.

RESULTS

All patients exhibited significant improvements in acne severity, PIH, and atrophic scarring. IGA scores decreased from baseline values of 3 to 4 to 1 to 2 post-treatment. PIHASI scores were reduced by 4 to 6 points, and Goodman and Baron scores improved by one grade level. Patient satisfaction scores ranged from 8 to 9 out of 10. Minimal adverse events were noted, with only one instance of transient erythema observed during the study.

CONCLUSION

LDE therapy combined with microneedling seems to be a promising treatment modality for active acne, PIH, and atrophic scarring, demonstrating significant clinical improvements with high patient satisfaction and minimal adverse effects. Further research with larger cohorts and controlled studies is warranted to validate these findings.

Hyaluronic Acid and Skin: Its Role in Aging and Wound-Healing Processes

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a linear, unbranched polysaccharide classified as a glycosaminoglycan. While HA is found in various tissues throughout the body, over half of its total proportion is found in the skin. The role of HA in the skin is complex and multifaceted. HA maintains proper hydration, elasticity, and skin firmness, serving as a key extracellular matrix (ECM) component. With age, HA production gradually decreases, leading to reduced water-binding capacity, drier and less elastic skin, and the formation of wrinkles. Additionally, HA plays an active role in the wound-healing process at every stage. This review summarizes the current background knowledge about the role of HA in skin aging and wound healing. We discuss the latest applications of HA in aging prevention, including anti-aging formulations, nutricosmetics, microneedles, nanoparticles, HA-based fillers, and skin biostimulators. Furthermore, we explore various HA-based dressings used in wound treatment, such as hydrogels, sponges, membranes, and films.

Influence of the cosmetic use of botulinum toxin type a on temperature measurements using infrared thermography

This study aims to assess the influence of the cosmetic use of Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) on temperature measurements using Infrared thermography (IT). A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with 16 patients to examine the cosmetic application of BTX-A in the upper third of the face to treat dynamic wrinkles (expression lines). The substance used in the patients was Botulinum Toxin type A DYSPORT® 500 IU. A thermogram in frontal norm was acquired from each patient in three different moments: (M1) before BTX-A application, (M2) 10 min after BTX-A application, and (M3) five days after BTX-A application. The ROIs were demarcated in each image with a diameter of 10 mm, and then the average temperature values of each ROI were recorded. Mixed ANOVA, with Tukey's post hoc test, was used to determine interactions between factors in the dependent variable. The paired T-test was used to assess whether the mean temperatures on the face's right and left sides were statistically different. The significance level was set at 5%, considering p < 0.05. For the left-side temporal ROI, statistically significant differences were observed only between the different assessed times (p = 0.010). Considering the mean temperature difference, at the temporal ROI, a reduction of the M2 temperature was observed (ΔT = 0.3 ℃) and an increase at M3 (ΔT = 0.6 ℃). The cosmetic use of BTX-A may alter skin temperature values assessed using IT, and this effect can last for days.

A Prospective Study of Exosome Therapy for Androgenetic Alopecia

BACKGROUND

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts patients' psychological well-being and quality of life. Traditional treatments, such as minoxidil and finasteride, have limited efficacy and undesirable side effects. Exosome therapy, which uses extracellular vesicles to promote tissue regeneration, offers a promising alternative. This study evaluates the effectiveness of exosome therapy combined with microneedling (MTS) for treating AGA.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of exosome therapy in promoting hair regrowth in patients with AGA following microneedling treatment.

METHODS

This prospective, open-label study included 16 male patients aged 36-45 years with mild to moderate AGA. Microneedling was performed on the scalp followed by the application of exosome topical therapy (ZISHEL XOMAGE, Zishel Bio Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea). Hair density and patient satisfaction were evaluated through clinical assessments and photographic documentation at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Side effects were also monitored.

RESULTS

At the 12-month follow-up, the average increase in hair density was 35 hairs/cm2, with a standard deviation of 6.5 hairs/cm2. Baseline hair densities ranged from 75 hairs/cm2 to 95 hairs/cm2, with improvements observed in all patients. Patient satisfaction was high, with 80% of participants reporting noticeable improvements in hair regrowth and 87% indicating satisfaction or high satisfaction with the results. Mild side effects, including scalp tenderness and slight irritation, were reported but resolved within 48 hours.

CONCLUSION

Exosome therapy, in combination with microneedling, offers a promising non-surgical treatment for AGA, demonstrating significant improvements in hair regrowth and patient satisfaction. Further studies with larger samples and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm the long-term efficacy of this approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

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 https://www.springer.com/00266 .

Botulinum Toxin in the Treatment of Hair and Scalp Disorders: Current Evidence and Clinical Applications

Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is well-recognized throughout dermatology for its cosmetic indications and growing therapeutic value. Recent studies have trialed BoNT in the treatment of hair and scalp disorders, many of which lack long-term effective treatments and significantly impact quality of life. In this review, we summarize the current clinical literature on this topic to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy, safety, and clinical value of BoNT in treating hair and scalp conditions. A literature search on PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus identified 40 articles reporting the use of 25-200 units of BoNT-A or B in 689 patients with hair loss (79.5%), scalp seborrheic dermatitis/hyperseborrhea (10%), craniofacial hyperhidrosis (9%), folliculitis decalvans/dissecting folliculitis (0.86%), scalp pain (0.43%), or linear scleroderma (0.29%). Most studies on BoNT therapy for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) reported mild or non-significant hair growth; however, considerable variability in outcome measures complicates the ability to draw definitive conclusions or justify the use of BoNT over established AGA therapies. BoNT-A and B showed consistent efficacy in treating craniofacial hyperhidrosis with minimal side effects. Additional scalp conditions may benefit from BoNT therapy, but the evidence is limited, and larger, controlled studies are needed to better understand BoNT's clinical value in these conditions.

Development and Characterization of PEGylated Poly D,L-Lactic Acid Nanoparticles for Skin Rejuvenation

Recently, various biocompatible and biodegradable materials have garnered significant attention as cosmetic fillers for skin rejuvenation. Among these, poly ε-caprolactone (PCL), poly L-lactic acid (PLLA), poly D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA), and polydioxanone (PDO) microspheres have been developed and commercialized as a dermal filler. However, its irregularly hydrophobic microspheres pose hydration challenges, often causing syringe needle blockages and side effects such as delayed onset nodules and papules after the procedure. In this study, we synthesized a polyethylene glycol-poly D,L-lactic acid (mPEG-PDLLA) copolymer to address the limitations of conventional polymer fillers. Comprehensive characterization of the copolymer was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The mPEG-PDLLA copolymers demonstrated a unimodal size distribution of approximately 121 ± 20 nm in an aqueous solution. The in vitro cytotoxicity and collagen genesis of mPEG-PDLLA copolymers were evaluated using human dermal fibroblast cells. In this study, angiogenesis was observed over time in hairless mice injected with mPEG-PDLLA copolymers, confirming its potential role in enhancing collagen synthesis. To assess the inflammatory response, the expression levels of the genes MMP1 and IL-1β were analyzed. Additionally, gene expression levels such as transforming growth factor-β and collagen types I and III were compared with Rejuran® in animal studies. The newly developed collagen-stimulating PEGylated PDLLA may be a safe and effective option for skin rejuvenation.

Evaluating Poly-D,L-Lactic Acid for Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation: Efficacy and Safety

BACKGROUND

Injectable fillers like PDLLA offer a novel approach to addressing lower eyelid rejuvenation. Despite their growing popularity, comprehensive studies on newer products like PDLLA are limited.

AIMS

This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of PDLLA (Juvelook, VAIM Inc., Seoul, Korea) for treating tear trough deformities in Korean women, aiming to provide a long-term, minimally invasive solution for periorbital rejuvenation.

MATERIALS & METHODS

A selected group of Korean women exhibiting tear trough deformities underwent treatment with PDLLA. Patients were assessed pre-treatment and followed up at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months post-treatment, with outcomes measured by independent clinicians using the Hirmand classification and patient satisfaction scores.

RESULTS

PDLLA demonstrated significant improvements in tear trough deformities with high patient satisfaction and minimal adverse effects. Follow-up results showed sustained improvements and no severe complications, indicating a safe profile for PDLLA.

DISCUSSION

The study highlights PDLLA's potential advantages over traditional fillers, including longer-lasting effects and enhanced collagen production, suggesting it as a superior option for those seeking durable aesthetic improvements.

CONCLUSION

PDLLA is an effective and safe treatment for periorbital rejuvenation in Korean women, providing lasting benefits and high patient satisfaction, warranting further comparative studies for broader applications.

Advances in regenerative medicine-based approaches for skin regeneration and rejuvenation

Significant progress has been made in regenerative medicine for skin repair and rejuvenation. This review examines core technologies including stem cell therapy, bioengineered skin substitutes, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), exosome-based therapies, and gene editing techniques like CRISPR. These methods hold promise for treating a range of conditions, from chronic wounds and burns to age-related skin changes and genetic disorders. Challenges remain in optimizing these therapies for broader accessibility and ensuring long-term safety and efficacy.

Injection Techniques for Filler Procedures With Illustration: Narrative Review

This narrative review explores the various injection techniques utilized in facial filler procedures, emphasizing their applications, benefits, and potential complications. The increasing demand for total facial contouring and rejuvenation has led to a rise in the use of volumizing fillers and the integration of these procedures with other treatments such as toxins, threads, lasers, radiofrequency, and ultrasound. Achieving satisfactory results necessitates a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy and the effects of aging on skin tissue. Key injection techniques discussed include retrograde and anterograde injections, linear and serial threading, serial puncture, fanning, cross-hatching, bolus, towering, sandwich, tenting, and specialized methods like fern leaf and duck walk injections. Each technique offers unique advantages, such as the retrograde technique's ability to minimize vascular complications and the dual plane technique's effectiveness in achieving optimal volumization and contouring by layering different types of fillers at varying depths. The dual-plane injection technique, in particular, is highlighted for its ability to provide natural and lasting results by combining firm fillers in deep layers with softer fillers superficially, minimizing surface irregularities and filler migration. The review also underscores the importance of preprocedure planning, including the marking of injection points to ensure precision, especially in patients with facial asymmetry. This comprehensive review aims to equip practitioners with the knowledge to select and master appropriate injection techniques, tailored to the specific needs of different facial areas, thereby enhancing treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction while minimizing risks.

Biocompatibility Study of Purified and Low-Temperature-Sterilized Injectable Collagen for Soft Tissue Repair: Intramuscular Implantation in Rats

The clinical application of collagen-based biomaterials is expanding rapidly, especially in tissue engineering and cosmetics. While oral supplements and injectable skin boosters are popular for enhancing skin health, clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness remains limited. Injectable products show potential in revitalizing skin, but safety concerns persist due to challenges in sterilization and the risk of biological contamination. Traditional methods of sterilization (heat and irradiation) can denature collagen. This study addresses these issues by introducing a novel technique: the double filtration and low-temperature steam sterilization of a collagen gel. In vitro tests documented the sterility and confirmed that the collagen did not show cytotoxicity, degradation, integrity, and viscosity characteristics changes after the processing and sterilization. The collagen gel induced new collagen expression and the proliferation of human dermal fibroblasts when the cells were cultured with the collagen gel. An in vivo study found no adverse effects in rats or significant lesions at the implantation site over 13 weeks. These results suggest that this novel method to process collagen gels is a safe and effective skin booster. Advanced processing methods are likely to mitigate the safety risks associated with injectable collagen products, though further research is needed to validate their biological effectiveness and clinical benefits.

Effective improvement methods for striae distensae: A novel approach utilizing laser-induced micro-jet injectors with poly-d,l-lactic acid

INTRODUCTION

Striae distensae (SD), or stretch marks, result from rapid stretching of the skin due to various factors. Conventional treatments often yield unsatisfactory results, leading to the exploration of alternative methods. Laser-induced microjet technology offers a promising approach for drug delivery to target areas. This study investigates the efficacy of using a microjet injector with poly-d,l-lactic acid for treating SD.

METHODS

Four female participants with SD were treated with poly-d,l-lactic acid solution using a microjet injector over five sessions. Patients were assessed based on severity scales before and after treatment. Topical anesthetics were applied to minimize discomfort. Injection techniques were optimized to reduce side effects such as bleeding and pain.

RESULTS

All patients showed significant improvement in SD appearance after 5-7 treatments. Assessment scales indicated positive outcomes both immediately after treatment and at the 32-week follow-up. Minimal side effects, primarily petechiae, were observed.

DISCUSSION

Laser-induced microjet technology offers several advantages, including rapid drug delivery and mechanotransduction effects, promoting skin regeneration. Poly-d,l-lactic acid injections demonstrated effectiveness in treating SD, particularly when delivered via microjet injectors. Patients expressed high satisfaction due to the procedure's minimal invasiveness and quick recovery.

CONCLUSION

Utilizing a needleless microjet injector with poly-d,l-lactic acid shows promise as a treatment for SD, typically requiring 5-7 sessions for optimal results. Mild petechiae may occur as a common side effect. This approach offers an effective and minimally invasive alternative for addressing this common cosmetic concern.

Exosome-mediated Advancements in Plastic Surgery: Navigating Therapeutic Potential in Skin Rejuvenation and Wound Healing

Exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles derived from various cells such as adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, exhibit considerable potential in wound healing due to their ability to facilitate cell communication and modulate inflammatory responses. These exosomes contribute positively to collagen synthesis and scar reduction, and have shown efficacy in documented clinical cases of wound improvement. Although research indicates their potential in reducing hypertrophic scars and suppressing keloid fibroblasts, further clinical investigations are warranted. In plastic surgery, exosome application postsurgery can enhance wound healing, particularly in cases prone to swelling or poor healing conditions. This study incorporates five case reports of individuals undergoing exosome treatment (EXOP; Sihler Inc., and Exodew; Hyundaimeditech, Inc.) for wound healing, providing practical insights into the application of this therapeutic approach. The five case reports presented in this study demonstrate the practical applications and efficacy of exosome therapy in promoting wound healing and reducing scarring. Exosomes emerge as a promising avenue within the field of plastic surgery, showcasing their potential to enhance wound healing, reduce scarring, and improve overall outcomes in clinical settings. The findings from this study underscore the importance of further exploration into the therapeutic benefits of exosomes in wound management, paving the way for their widespread adoption in clinical practice.

Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness

Polynucleotides, complex molecules composed of nucleotides, have gained attention in aesthetic medicine for their potential to regulate gene expression and promote tissue regeneration. This review aims to provide an overview of the current practices and perceived effectiveness of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted using keywords related to polynucleotides, cosmetic application, and aesthetic application. Studies were selected based on their relevance to aesthetic medicine and the inclusion of human subjects. The review found that polynucleotides have been used to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkle depth, and enhance facial appearance. The studies reported varying degrees of efficacy and safety, with some studies demonstrating significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration. However, others reported limited or no benefits. The review also highlighted the need for further research to establish the optimal use and efficacy of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine. While the existing literature suggests that polynucleotides may have potential benefits in aesthetic medicine, more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and optimal use. Clinicians should be aware of the current limitations and potential risks associated with the use of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine.

Clinical Applications of Exosomes: A Critical Review

Exosomes, small membrane-bound vesicles secreted by cells, have gained significant attention for their therapeutic potential. Measuring 30-100 nm in diameter and derived from various cell types, exosomes play a crucial role in intercellular communication by transferring proteins, lipids, and RNA between cells. This review analyzes existing literature on the clinical applications of exosomes. We conducted a comprehensive search of peer-reviewed articles and clinical trial data to evaluate the benefits, limitations, and challenges of exosome-based therapies. Key areas of focus included regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, gene therapy, and diagnostic biomarkers. This review highlights the vast clinical applications of exosomes. In regenerative medicine, exosomes facilitate tissue repair and regeneration. In cancer therapy, exosomes can deliver therapeutic agents directly to tumor cells. In gene therapy, exosomes serve as vectors for gene delivery. As diagnostic biomarkers, they are useful in diagnosing various diseases. Challenges such as the isolation, purification, and characterization of exosomes were identified. Current clinical trials demonstrate the potential of exosome-based therapies, though they also reveal significant hurdles. Regulatory issues, including the need for standardization and validation of exosome products, are critical for advancing these therapies. While significant progress has been made in understanding exosome biology, further research is essential to fully unlock their clinical potential. Addressing challenges in isolation, purification, and regulatory standardization is crucial for their successful application in clinical practice. This review provides a concise overview of the clinical applications of exosomes, emphasizing both their therapeutic promise and the obstacles that need to be overcome.

Poly‐d,l‐lactic acid‐enhanced atrophic scar treatment via transdermal microjet drug delivery in Asians

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris often results in permanent scars, with atrophic scars being the most common type and posing a significant therapeutic challenge due to their prevalence and impact on patients' quality of life. Various treatment options exist, including the use of poly-d,l-lactic acid delivered via different methods.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of poly-d,l-lactic acid delivered via laser-assisted needle-free microjet injection for treating atrophic scars.

METHODS

Five Korean participants with atrophic facial scars were recruited. Poly-d,l-lactic acid solution was administered via the Mirajet system in five sessions, with clinical assessments conducted at baseline, before each session, and at 12-week and 22-week follow-ups. Outcome measures included the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale and patient satisfaction scores.

RESULTS

Positive results were observed at the 12-week and 22-week follow-ups, with high patient satisfaction and improvements in atrophic scars and skin texture. Mild discomfort and transient side effects were reported, with no adverse events observed during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Poly-d,l-lactic acid delivered by a laser-assisted needle-free microjet injector was judged to be effective for improving atrophic the facial area. Further research, particularly through randomized controlled trials, is needed to validate these findings and assess the longer-term safety and sustainability of outcomes.

Use of platelet rich plasma for skin rejuvenation

OBJECTIVE

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is recognized as a safe and effective therapy for regenerative skin healing and rejuvenation, utilizing autologous blood enriched with various growth factors. This review aims to assess the efficacy of PRP treatments for skin rejuvenation.

METHODS

Keywords such as "platelet-rich plasma," "rejuvenation," "skin aging," and "wrinkles" were queried on Ovid, PubMed, and MEDLINE to identify pertinent studies on PRP treatment for skin rejuvenation.

RESULTS

Analysis revealed that PRP treatment led to significant enhancements in multiple facial parameters after one to three sessions. Improvements were noted in skin pore size, texture, wrinkle reduction, pigmented spots, collagen density, hyaluronic acid levels, and protection against ultraviolet damage. Combining PRP with hyaluronic acid demonstrated a synergistic effect, particularly enhancing skin elasticity in patients with lower body mass index and firmness in individuals aged 50s and 60s. Incorporating both physical and biometric data for assessment proved superior to relying solely on physical observations for evaluating subtle skin quality and structural changes.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the efficacy of PRP monotherapy for skin rejuvenation and emphasizes the necessity of standardizing PRP preparation protocols in future investigations. Heightened awareness and advancements in technology have contributed to the emergence of higher-quality, less biased studies supporting PRP as a reliable and safe therapeutic option for skin rejuvenation.

High-resolution 3-D scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of DOTTM polynucleotides (PN): Unique scaffold characteristics and potential applications in biomedicine

INTRODUCTION

Polynucleotides (PN) are becoming more prominent in aesthetic medicine. However, the structural characteristics of PN have not been published and PN from different companies may have different structural characteristics. This study aimed to elucidate the structural attributes of DOT™ PN and distinguish differences with polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

DOT™ PN was examined using a Quanta 3-D field emission gun (FEG) Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Sample preparation involved cryogenic cooling, cleavage, etching, and metal coating to facilitate high-resolution imaging. Cryo-FIB/SEM techniques were employed for in-depth structural analysis.

RESULTS

PDRN exhibited an amorphous structure without distinct features. In contrast, DOT™ PN displayed well-defined polyhedral shapes with smooth, uniformly thick walls. These cells were empty, with diameters ranging from 3 to 8 micrometers, forming a seamless tessellation pattern.

DISCUSSION

DOT™ PN's distinct geometric tessellation design conforms to the principles of biotensegrity, providing both structural reinforcement and integrity. The presence of delicate partitions and vacant compartments hints at possible uses in the field of pharmaceutical delivery systems. Within the realms of beauty enhancement and regenerative medicine, DOT™ PN's capacity to bolster cell growth and tissue mending could potentially transform approaches to rejuvenation treatments. Its adaptability becomes apparent when considering its contributions to drug administration and surgical procedures.

CONCLUSION

This study unveils the intricate structural scaffold features of DOT™ PN for the first time, setting it apart from PDRN and inspiring innovation in biomedicine and materials science. DOT™ PN's unique attributes open doors to potential applications across healthcare and beyond.

Skin boosters: Definitions and varied classifications

BACKGROUND

The concept of "skin boosters" has evolved, marking a shift from traditional uses of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers primarily for augmenting skin volume to a more diverse application aimed at improving dermal conditions. Restylane Vital and other HA fillers have been repurposed to combat skin aging and wrinkles by delivering HA directly to the dermis.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to define the term "skin booster" and to discuss the various components that constitute skin boosters. It seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the different ingredients used in skin boosters, their roles, and their impact on enhancing dermal conditions.

METHODS

A comprehensive review was conducted, focusing on representative skin booster ingredients. The approach involved analyzing the different elements used in skin boosters and their specific roles in enhancing dermal improvement.

RESULTS

The findings indicate that skin boosters, encompassing a range of ingredients, are effective in improving the condition of the skin's dermis. The review identifies key ingredients in skin boosters and their specific benefits, including hydration, elasticity improvement, and wrinkle reduction.

CONCLUSIONS

Skin boosters represent a significant development in dermatological treatments, offering diverse benefits beyond traditional HA fillers. This review provides valuable insights into the constituents of skin boosters and their effectiveness, aiding readers in making informed decisions about these treatments. The potential of skin boosters in dermatological practice is considerable, warranting further research and application.