Search Results (167)

The growing demand for natural and sustainable skincare products has driven interest in plant-based active ingredients, especially from in vitro cultures. This placebo-controlled study investigated the impact of a facial cream containing 2% Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort cell suspension culture extract on various skin biophysical parameters. The cream was applied to the cheek once daily for six weeks on 40 healthy female volunteers between the ages of 40 to 49. The evaluated skin parameters including skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), erythema intensity (EI), melanin intensity (MI), skin surface pH, and skin structure, wrinkle depth, vascular lesions, and vascular discolouration. The results indicated that significant improvements were observed in skin hydration (from 40.36 to 63.00 AU, p < 0.001) and there was a decrease in TEWL score (14.82 to 11.76 g/h/m², p < 0.001), while the skin surface pH was maintained (14.82 to 11.76 g/h/m², p < 0.001). Moreover, the K. elatine cell extract significantly improved skin structure values (9.23 to 8.50, p = 0.028), reduced vascular lesions (2.72 to 1.54 mm², p = 0.011), and lowered skin discolouration (20.98% to 14.84%, p < 0.001), indicating its moisturising, protective, brightening, and soothing properties. These findings support the potential use of K. elatine cell extract in dermocosmetic formulations targeting dry, sensitive, or ageing skin. Full article

Mpox has become a significant health concern since the global outbreak that began in 2022. The aim of this study is to present the epidemiological situation of Mpox in Romania during 2022–2023 and to describe a severe case of Mpox in a patient who survived despite multiple co-pathologies. Forty-seven confirmed cases were reported at the national level, all in men, in 2022. The median age was 33 years. Twenty-six cases involved men who have sex with men (MSM), and twenty-three tested positive for HIV. We also describe a severe case involving a 34-year-old bisexual male with newly diagnosed AIDS who developed severe Mpox with persistent necrotic skin lesions, respiratory involvement, and multiple opportunistic infections: tuberculosis, pneumocystis pneumonia, syphilis, and oral candidiasis. The patient presented with fever, night sweats, weight loss, and dyspnea, with a single ulcerative facial lesion that later disseminated. Mpox infection was confirmed through PCR from skin lesion, serum, saliva, urine, rectal, nasal, and pharyngeal swab samples, with high viral loads persisting despite prolonged Tecovirimat therapy. The patient developed immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome following the initiation of antiretroviral therapy. This case emphasizes the challenges of treating Mpox in immunocompromised patients. Full article

This study assessed the accuracy of a long-term AI-based projection of signs of facial aging and their acceptance by consumers. Standardized photographs of 25 Chinese and 25 French women were first taken at T0 and graded using ethnic-specific skin aging atlases. An AI-based algorithm then aged the photographs by 10 (T10) and 15 (T15) years. A total of 246 women from China, France, and Thailand compared these images in pairs (T0 vs. T0 + 10 or T0 + 15) and provided feedback on their overall impressions, realism, and psychological acceptance via a questionnaire. Besides lower face ptosis (p < 0.01), the simulated images revealed that regardless of ethnicity, there were no significant differences in grading. Irrespective of ethnic background, 62–78% of overall panelists found the projections realistic and liked them, while 85–96% of panelists (Chinese and French) were willing to test them. A total of 47% of Thai panelists were reluctant to try, while 4–14% found it scary. This indicated some degree of cultural influence. This study confirms women’s acceptance of future facial appearance with some degree of cultural divergence. It also highlights a valid methodology to explore skin aging for a more realistic and personalized cosmetic improvement and innovation. Full article

Background: Melasma is an acquired hyperpigmentation disorder with multifactorial etiologies and limited response to conventional therapies. Recent evidence suggests that Botulinum Toxin A (BoNT-A) may modulate ultraviolet (UV)-induced pigmentation and offer therapeutic benefits. Objective: We sought to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two intradermal dilutions of Letibotulinum toxin A (LetiBoNT-A) in Thai patients with melasma. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, split-face study, 30 participants aged 32–62 years received a single intradermal injection of LetiBoNT-A, with 20 units administered per cheek. A 1:5 dilution was injected on one side of the face, and a 1:10 dilution was injected on the contralateral side. Outcomes were evaluated over a 6-month period using the Hemi-modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (Hemi-mMASI), VISIA^® brown spot analysis, and quantitative assessments of skin texture. Results: Both dilutions significantly improved Hemi-mMASI scores (1:5, p = 0.043; 1:10, p = 0.002) and brown spots (1:5, p = 0.002; 1:10, p < 0.001). The 1:10 dilution showed earlier and more sustained improvements. Subgroup analysis revealed greater reductions in Hemi-mMASI scores among patients with telangiectatic melasma, particularly with the 1:10 dilution, though they were not statistically significant. Additionally, the 1:10 dilution significantly reduced pore volume, pore area, and sebum levels. One case of transient facial asymmetry was reported with the 1:5 dilution. Conclusions: LetiBoNT-A is a safe and effective adjunct in melasma treatment. The 1:10 dilution offered superior clinical outcomes. Full article

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells have emerged as promising therapeutic agents in regenerative dermatology. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of Bio-Pulsed avian mesenchymal stem cell-derived sEVs (AMSC-sEVs), topically applied for hair follicle stimulation and skin rejuvenation. Two prospective, single-arm clinical trials were conducted: one involving 30 participants using a hair ampoule over 60 days, and the other involving 30 participants applying a facial essence for 28 days. Objective measurements demonstrated significant improvements in the anagen/telogen hair ratio, reduced shedding, increased collagen density, and reduced wrinkle depth and pigmentation. Small RNA sequencing and qPCR profiling confirmed that Bio-Pulsed AMSC-sEVs were enriched with regenerative microRNAs, such as miR-21-5p and miR-199a-5p, associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects. No adverse events were reported. These findings suggest that Bio-Pulsed AMSC-sEVs may offer a safe, non-invasive, and cell-free approach to enhance skin and hair regeneration in human subjects. Full article

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) filler, which increases volume and collagen synthesis, is used for skin rejuvenation. Subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) contains precursors that differentiate into mature adipocytes that secrete adiponectin, which modulates SAT function and increases adipogenesis. During aging, adiponectin and precursor cell functions decrease, reducing adipogenesis and facial volume. Adiponectin also increases collagen synthesis by stimulating fibroblasts. After hydrogen peroxide treatment to induce senescent adipocytes (3T3-L1) and aged skin, follow-up PLLA treatment increased adipogenesis by stimulating the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ)/CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBPα) pathway. This resulted in increased adiponectin secretion, which promoted collagen synthesis and mitigated the loss of SAT volume. In the senescent adipocyte, PLLA increased NRF2/PPARγ/C/EBPα, adipogenesis factors (fatty acid binding protein 4, lipoprotein lipase, and cluster of differentiation 36), lipogenesis factors (ATP citrate lyase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and fatty acid synthase), adiponectin, and lipid droplet size. Treatment of senescent fibroblasts with conditioned medium from PLLA-treated adipocytes increased collagen1 and 3 and decreased matrix metalloproteinase1 and 3 expressions. Similarly, PLLA increased NRF2/PPARγ/C/EBPα, adipogenesis, and lipogenesis factors in aged mouse SAT. Also, PLLA increased adiponectin and adipocyte numbers without hypertrophy and increased collagen accumulation and dermal thickness. In summary, PLLA increased adipogenesis and adiponectin, which increased the volume of SAT and collagen synthesis, thereby rejuvenating aged skin. Full article

Facial aging is a complex process manifesting as skin hyperpigmentation, textural irregularities, and a diminished elasticity, hydration, and evenness of tone. The escalating demand for minimally invasive aesthetic interventions has driven the development of advanced hydrogel-based injectable formulations. This clinical study assessed the safety and efficacy of Hydragel A1, an injectable hydrogel containing hyaluronic acid (HA), niacinamide, and tranexamic acid (TXA), designed to simultaneously address multiple facets of facial skin aging. A cohort of 49 female participants underwent a series of objective and subjective assessments, including the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), instrumental measurements (Antera 3D, Chromameter, Cutometer, Dermascan, Corneometer), and standardized photographic documentation at baseline (Day 0) and 14, 28, and 70 days post-treatment. The results demonstrated statistically significant improvements in skin hydration, texture, elasticity, and pigmentation following Hydragel A1 administration. Notably, no serious adverse events or significant injection site reactions were observed, confirming the favorable safety profile of the investigated device. Collectively, these findings underscore the potential of a combined HA, niacinamide, and TXA injectable formulation to provide a comprehensive approach to facial skin rejuvenation, effectively targeting multiple aging-related mechanisms. Full article

Centella asiatica (CICA)-derived exosomes have emerged as bioactive agents for skin rejuvenation due to their regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a topical ampoule containing CICA-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in healthy Korean adults. This human application study was conducted over a 15-day period, during which the test formulation was topically applied to the skin following a controlled regimen. A 24-h patch test with 30 participants confirmed non-irritation (irritation index: 0.00). In a separate two-week trial (n = 20; mean age 50.7 years), 3D imaging and ultrasound assessed five-dimensional pore improvement (area, density, volume, filling, texture), wrinkle depth reduction in five facial regions, dermal hydration at 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 mm depths, and skin density. Significant reductions were observed in mean pore area (−17.9%) and pore density (−26.9%), with a 9.0% decrease in surface roughness. Wrinkle depths decreased by 7.8–18.8% across the forehead, glabella, crow’s feet, nasolabial folds, and neck. Hydration increased by 7.9% at 0.5 mm, and dermal density improved by 12.7% (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the excellent skin compatibility and multifaceted cosmetic benefits of the formulation containing CICA-derived exosomes and other active ingredients, underscoring its potential as a safe, effective, and innovative anti-aging cosmetic agent. Full article

Facial aging is a multifactorial and stratified biological process characterized by progressive morphological and biochemical alterations affecting both cutaneous (Layer I) and subcutaneous (Layer II) tissues. These age-related changes manifest clinically as volume depletion, tissue ptosis, and a decline in overall skin quality. In response to these phenomena, thread lifting techniques have evolved significantly—from simple mechanical suspension methods to sophisticated bioactive platforms. Contemporary threads now incorporate biocompatible polymers and hyaluronic acid (HA), aiming not only to reposition soft tissues but also to promote dermal regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive classification and critical assessment of thread lifting materials, focusing on their chemical composition, mechanical performance, degradation kinetics, and biostimulatory potential. Particular emphasis has been given to the surface integration of HA into monofilament threads, especially with the emergence of advanced delivery systems such as NAMICA, which facilitate sustained HA release. Advanced thread materials, especially those fabricated from poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) [P(LA/CL)], demonstrate both tensile support and regenerative efficacy. Emerging HA-covered threads exhibit synergistic bioactivity, stimulating skin remodeling. NAMICA technology represents an advancement in the field, in which HA is encapsulated within biodegradable polymer fibers to enable gradual release and enhanced dermal integration. Nonetheless, well-designed human studies are still needed to substantiate its therapeutic efficacy. Consequently, the paradigm of thread lifting is shifting from purely mechanical interventions toward biologically active systems that promote comprehensive ECM regeneration. The integration of HA into resorbable threads, especially when combined with sustained-release technologies, represents a meaningful innovation in aesthetic dermatology, meriting further preclinical and clinical evaluation. Full article

Facial wrinkles are a key indicator of aging and hold significant importance in skincare, cosmetics, and cosmetology. Their formation is closely linked to mechanical deformation, yet the underlying processes remain complex. This study integrates the Facial Action Coding System (FACS) with three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) to dynamically capture and quantitatively analyze skin deformation during facial expression. Principal strains and their orientation are introduced as important parameters to investigate the relationship between mechanical behavior and wrinkle formation. To further explore these interactions, a four-layer finite element (FE) model incorporating a muscle layer is developed, simulating muscle contraction and its influence on skin deformation. The findings provide a mechanobiological framework for understanding wrinkle formation and may inspire the development of strain-sensitive sensors for real-time detection of microstructural deformations. Full article

Novel senotherapeutics are needed to reverse aging-related skin decline. The research question addressed was whether mesoglycan, a clinically approved glycosaminoglycan formulation known to enhance perfusion, angiogenesis, and VEGF-A signaling, possesses therapeutic potential for rejuvenating photo aged human skin. To test this, we treated full-thickness photoaged facial human skin samples (mean age: 72 ± 5 years) from seven women ex vivo. The samples were treated with topical or medium-delivered mesoglycan (100, 200, and 300 µM) for 6 days under serum-free conditions that accelerate skin aging. Biomarkers associated with aging were assessed using quantitative immunohistomorphometry. Mesoglycan treatment improved key skin aging biomarkers at all doses. Compared to vehicle-treated skin, mesoglycan broadly enhanced epidermal structure and function, improved pigmentation-related markers, reduced cellular senescence, boosted mitochondrial performance and antioxidant defenses, and improved dermal matrix structure and microvasculature density. Notably, mesoglycan also upregulated VEGF-A and VEGFR2, promoting skin rejuvenation. Medium-delivered mesoglycan produced stronger overall effects, while rete ridge reappearance was observed exclusively after topical application. Mesoglycan demonstrates senotherapeutic potential in photoaged human skin, acting via complementary pathways, including VEGF-A upregulation. Although medium-delivered mesoglycan yielded the greatest biomarker improvements topical application restored rete ridges, a sign of epidermal reorganization and also significantly enhanced basement membrane structure, pigmentation, mitochondrial function and antioxidant defenses, while avoiding systemic exposure, making it the safer and more feasible route for localized skin anti-aging. Full article

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by several factors, including UV exposure, environmental stressors, and lifestyle choices. The demand for effective, natural skincare products has driven research into plant-based oils rich in bioactive compounds. Rosehip oil has garnered attention for its high content of carotenoids, phenolics, and antioxidants, which are known for their anti-aging, photoprotective, and skin-rejuvenating properties. Despite the growing interest in rosehip oil, limited studies have investigated its efficacy on human skin using advanced imaging technologies. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the efficacy of cold-pressed Rosa canina seed oil on facial skin characteristics, specifically wrinkles, ultraviolet (UV) spot reduction, and erythema mitigation, using imaging technologies (the VISIA analysis system). Seed oil pressed from R. canina collected from the Băișoara area of Cluj County has been selected for this study due to its high carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents. The oil has also been analyzed for the content of individual carotenoids (i.e., lutein, lycopene, β Carotene, and zeaxanthin) using HPLC-DAD (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Diode Array Detector), along with lutein and zeaxanthin esters and diesters. After the preliminary screening of multiple Rosa species for carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents, the R. canina sample with the highest therapeutic potential was selected. A cohort of 27 volunteers (aged 30–65) underwent a five-week treatment protocol, wherein three drops of the selected rosehip oil were topically applied to the face daily. The VISIA imaging was conducted before and after the treatment to evaluate changes in skin parameters, including the wrinkle depth, UV-induced spots, porphyrins, and texture. Regarding the bioactivities, rosehip oil showed a significant total carotenoids content (28.398 μg/mL), with the highest levels in the case of the β-carotene (4.49 μg/mL), lutein (4.33 μg/mL), and zexanthin (10.88 μg/mL) contents. Results indicated a significant reduction in mean wrinkle scores across several age groups, with notable improvements in individuals with deeper baseline wrinkles. UV spots also showed visible declines, suggesting ideal photoprotective and anti-pigmentary effects attributable to the oil’s high vitamin A and carotenoid content. Porphyrin levels, often correlated with bacterial activity, decreased in most subjects, hinting at an additional antimicrobial or microbiome-modulatory property. However, skin responses varied, possibly due to individual differences in skin sensitivity, environmental factors, or compliance with sun protection. Overall, the topical application of R. canina oil appeared to improve the facial skin quality, reduce the appearance of age-related markers, and support skin health. These findings reinforce the potential use of rosehip oil in anti-aging skincare formulations. Further long-term, large-scale studies are warranted to refine dosing regimens, investigate mechanisms of action, and explore synergistic effects with other bioactive compounds. Full article

Objectives: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled intervention study aimed to evaluate whether hawthorn fruit (HF) supplementation can influence facial skin phenotypes and leukocyte telomere length (TL) and whether these effects differ by genetic polymorphisms related to TL. Participants/Methods: Among 41 male and female adults aged 25–75 years who participated in the study, 36 completed initial and follow-up examinations over 6 months. The HF supplementation group (n = 17) was instructed to take a powdered HF supplement (900 mg/day), while controls (n = 19) were to take a cornstarch placebo (900 mg/day). Facial skin phenotypes, including pigmentation, pores, hydration, wrinkles, and elasticity, were measured before and after the intervention, and changes in these phenotype scores were calculated. Sequencing of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) polymorphisms, such as rs7705526 (C>A) and rs2853669 (A>G), was conducted. Results: The HF supplementation group exhibited significantly improved hydration scores compared to the control group; the mean changes (follow-up measure—baseline measure) [standard deviation] in hydration scores over 6 months were 1.71 [8.18] and −3.00 [8.42] for the supplementation group and control group, respectively (p < 0.05) (Cohen’s d = 0.57). However, changes in other phenotypes and leukocyte TL were similar between groups. The genotype-specific analysis revealed that the improvement of hydration state was most noticeable among carriers with the CC genotype of rs7705526 (p < 0.05) (Cohen’s d = 1.50) and that the HF supplementation group exhibited reduced wrinkle scores while the control group showed increased scores among carriers of the AA genotype of rs2853669 (p < 0.05) (Cohen’s d = 1.40). In correlation analysis for all participants, hydration scores were positively correlated with leukocyte TL (Spearman correlation coefficient: 0.36; p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings suggest that HF consumption may have potential anti-skin-aging effects. Future studies may need to elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying these effects. Full article

Background: Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, affecting more than 300 million individuals globally. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) are recommended as the primary therapy for managing and preventing asthma symptoms in current treatment guidelines. However, long-term use of ICSs could lead to multiple side effects, including skin changes. Methods: We identified ICS target genes using DrugBank and DGIdb databases and derived genetic instruments from cis-eQTL data in whole-blood samples (n = 31,684). GWAS data for facial aging traits (n = 423,999) and plasma metabolites (1400 metabolites, n = 8000) were analyzed. DNA methylation QTL (mQTL) data were used to explore epigenetic regulation. Mendelian randomization (MR) and colocalization analyses were performed to assess causality and shared genetic loci. Results: MR analysis suggested a significant link between genetically proxied ICSs (ORMDL3) and face aging in the European population. Further mediation analysis indicated that 5-Hydroxylysine partially mediates the relationship between ICSs and face aging. In addition, our analysis revealed the pleiotropic association of some novel DNA methylation sites of ORMDL3 with face aging, suggesting the possible regulatory mechanism that are involved in face aging. Conclusions: These findings, while exploratory, raise the hypothesis that ICSs may impact face aging through upregulation of ORMDL3 expression and 5-hydroxylysine metabolism and highlight the need for further pharmacological and clinical research to validate these potential effects. Full article

Background: Hyaluronic acid (HA)–based bioactive hydrogels have emerged as multifunctional platforms for skin bioregeneration. While traditional mesotherapy using multicomponent substances has been widely practiced for improving skin quality, the time-consuming nature of this approach has led to exploration of alternative delivery methods. Aims: This study evaluated the clinical effectiveness of an HA bioactive hydrogel-based bioregeneration system (containing non-stabilized hyaluronic acid and 14 bioactive ingredients) administered via cannula and its impact on facial skin density as assessed by ultrasound imaging. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of data from 20 female patients aged 30–42 years who received a single cannula-delivered injection of a bioactive hyaluronic acid hydrogel (TEOSYAL^® Redensity [I]) in the midface region. The formulation combines the structural benefits of hyaluronic acid with the biochemical stimulation provided by amino acids, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Skin density was measured using high-frequency ultrasound at baseline, immediately post-procedure, and at 3–4 weeks follow-up. A control group of seven individuals received no treatment. Results: Ultrasound assessments revealed a statistically significant increase in skin density (92.7%, p < 0.001) within the treated area compared to no significant changes in the control group. This substantial improvement in dermal architecture demonstrates the efficacy of bioactive hydrogels in stimulating fibroblast function and extracellular matrix regeneration. Patient satisfaction was high, with 85% of patients reporting being satisfied or very satisfied. Side effects were minimal, with minor bruising (10%) and transient swelling (15%). Conclusions: Cannula-delivered bioactive hyaluronic acid hydrogel effectively enhances facial skin density with high patient satisfaction and minimal downtime, demonstrating the potential of advanced hydrogel formulations as multifunctional therapeutic platforms that extend beyond traditional applications into aesthetic and regenerative dermatology. Full article