Wang J, Gu J, Wang Z
… +3 more, Yin P, Jian X, Yu B
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087490
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BACKGROUND: Advances in injectable techniques and materials have driven rapid growth in the esthetic injection market, with more products showing excellent efficacy and safety. Nevertheless, adverse reactions continue to...BACKGROUND: Advances in injectable techniques and materials have driven rapid growth in the esthetic injection market, with more products showing excellent efficacy and safety. Nevertheless, adverse reactions continue to be reported, among which chronic inflammatory nodules and swelling are particularly challenging to manage. Despite many etiological theories and diagnostic consensus, clinical treatment remains complex and difficult. Novel approaches are continually being explored. Among them, energy-based devices (EBDs) therapy has shown promising potential and clinical value, as evidenced by some clinical reports. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser in managing adverse reactions such as nodules and swelling following cosmetic injections. METHODS: This study demonstrates four treatment cases combining different energy-based devices, documenting therapeutic protocols and efficacy. A systematic literature review is incorporated to evaluate EBDs applications and therapeutic value. RESULTS: All of the four cases recovered from nodules or swelling without side effects by receiving ESWT and 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, and the existing reports have demonstrated preliminary clinical experience with EBDs, showing promising efficacy and potential for broader applications in this field. CONCLUSION: ESWT and 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser have demonstrated effectiveness in treating post-injection nodules and swelling, achieving high patient satisfaction with minimal side effects. Future studies should focus on elucidating their mechanisms and standardizing treatment protocols. Other energy-based devices (EBDs) may have potential in this field, which requires further clinical verification.
Qin X, Zhai J, Liu L
… +4 more, Shu H, Zhu L, Shi Q, Luo Y
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087486
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BACKGROUND: Skin aging is a multifactorial process involving the progressive deterioration of skin structure and function, marked by collagen degeneration, impairing the structural integrity of the dermis. Intradermal in...BACKGROUND: Skin aging is a multifactorial process involving the progressive deterioration of skin structure and function, marked by collagen degeneration, impairing the structural integrity of the dermis. Intradermal injection of recombinant type III humanized collagen (RhCol-III) solution is a promising anti-aging strategy through direct collagen replenishment, but its synergistic effects when combined with a collagen-III multi-peptide serum remain unexplored. AIMS: This study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of a RhCol-III solution injection combined with a collagen-III multi-peptide serum in improving photoaging. METHODS: A prospective, single-center, randomized, split-face, single-blind trial was conducted. Participants received an intradermal injection of 2 mg/mL RhCol-III solution with application of collagen-III multi-peptide serum on the test side and intradermal injection of RhCol-III solution only on the control side. The 12-week follow-up period assessed effectiveness and safety, with the primary endpoint being the participant-reported skin satisfaction score (FACE-Q satisfaction with skin) at 4 weeks post-treatment. RESULTS: A total of 54 participants were enrolled. The primary endpoint, FACE-Q skin satisfaction score at week 4, significantly improved on both tested and control sides by 40.0% vs. 34.8% from baseline (both p < 0.0001; p < 0.05 between sides). By week 12, the tested side showed significantly better outcomes versus the control side in FACE-Q skin satisfaction scores, GAIS significant improvement rates, improvement rates of fine lines and skin firmness (all p < 0.05). No adverse events related to the RhCol-III solution injection were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of injectable RhCol-III and topical collagen-III multi-peptide serum is effective and safe in ameliorating photoaging of the forehead, periorbital and cheek areas among the Chinese population.
Wu J, Liu W, Sun M
… +3 more, Jiang Q, Chen H, Chen L
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087462
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BACKGROUND: Accurate staging of vitiligo is essential for effective treatment. Current staging primarily relies on clinical manifestations, patients' subjective reports, and physicians' assessments, which may introduce i...BACKGROUND: Accurate staging of vitiligo is essential for effective treatment. Current staging primarily relies on clinical manifestations, patients' subjective reports, and physicians' assessments, which may introduce inaccuracies. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and dermoscopy are auxiliary diagnostic tools in dermatology that support the diagnosis and differentiation of vitiligo; they also assist in staging and evaluating therapeutic efficacy. AIMS: This study aimed to compare the sensitivity and specificity of RCM and dermoscopy in vitiligo staging, providing a more reliable reference for clinical application. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of clinical and imaging data from 218 patients with vitiligo who attended the Department of Dermatology at Wuhan No. 1 Hospital between December 2023 and November 2024. Clinical assessment methods-clinical features, Vitiligo Disease Activity score, Wood's lamp examination, and Koebner phenomenon-served as the reference standard for staging. Blinded evaluators independently conducted staging using RCM and dermoscopy. Each modality's sensitivity and specificity were calculated. RESULTS: Staging results based on RCM and dermoscopy showed strong concordance with clinical evaluation; Kappa values were 0.74 and 0.718, respectively (p < 0.01). The positive percent agreement and negative percent agreement of RCM staging with clinical assessment were 94.16% and 78.12%, respectively; those metrics for dermoscopy were 87.01% and 89.06%. RCM demonstrated significantly higher sensitivity than dermoscopy (p = 0.013), whereas dermoscopy showed significantly higher specificity than RCM (p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS: RCM and dermoscopy provide significant clinical value in vitiligo staging. RCM shows higher positive percent agreement for detecting progressive disease, whereas dermoscopy shows higher negative percent agreement for confirming stable disease. These tools offer an objective foundation for assessment and support clinical decision-making.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087444
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BACKGROUND: Skin glycation, oxidation, carbonylation, and excessive inflammation are well-recognized factors contributing to skin aging and pigmentation. Previous in vitro studies have confirmed vitamin C's antioxidant,...BACKGROUND: Skin glycation, oxidation, carbonylation, and excessive inflammation are well-recognized factors contributing to skin aging and pigmentation. Previous in vitro studies have confirmed vitamin C's antioxidant, anti-glycation, and anti-inflammatory properties, but its in vivo effects remain to be further verified. AIMS: To investigate the in vivo effects of topical vitamin C serum on skin anti-glycation, anti-carbonylation, antioxidation, and anti-inflammation, and to provide evidence for its anti-aging and skin-brightening applications. PATIENTS/METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted, enrolling 66 healthy Chinese females, with 31 in the blank group and 35 in the topical group. Participants applied 10% vitamin C serum for 12 weeks. Skin glycation, carbonylated protein content, interleukin-1α (IL-1α) levels, free radical scavenging capacity, and skin color parameters were evaluated before and after treatment. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, the topical group showed significant improvements: AGEs reduced by 17.65%, carbonylation fluorescence intensity decreased by 49.22%, IL-1α content dropped by 58.73%, and ABTS free radical scavenging rate increased by 12.14%. Skin yellowness (b* value) and redness (a* value) decreased by 6.13% and 16.46%, respectively (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Topical 10% vitamin C serum can effectively mitigate skin glycation, carbonylation, and inflammation, enhance skin antioxidant capacity, and improve skin color, supporting its clinical value in anti-aging and skin-brightening.
Boonpethkaew S, Anansiripun P, Maitrisathit W
… +4 more, Ratanapokasatit Y, Chirasuthat S, Wechsuruk P, Wattanakrai P
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087432
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BACKGROUND: The 589/1319 nm solid-state dual-wavelength (SSDW) laser, which targets cutaneous vasculature, may be an effective treatment for acne erythema (AE). OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy and safety of the 589/1...BACKGROUND: The 589/1319 nm solid-state dual-wavelength (SSDW) laser, which targets cutaneous vasculature, may be an effective treatment for acne erythema (AE). OBJECTIVES: To compare the efficacy and safety of the 589/1319 nm SSDW laser with topical soothing Aloe vera (AV) gel for the treatment of AE. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty patients with bilateral AE were enrolled. One facial side received 6 sessions of 589/1319 nm SSDW laser treatment, while the contralateral side was treated with twice-daily AV gel for 18 weeks. Patients were followed for 8 weeks after the final laser session. AE severity, acne severity, and adverse events were assessed. RESULTS: Twenty-nine patients completed the study. Both treatment modalities significantly reduced AE. The laser-treated side demonstrated a faster clinical response, with a significant reduction compared to baseline at 2 weeks, whereas AV gel required 4 weeks to achieve a comparable effect (within-group p < 0.05; no between-group difference). At the 8-week follow-up, the response rate was 72% for the laser-treated sides and 69% for the AV-treated sides. AE improvement correlated with reductions in acne severity in the laser-treated sides (r = 0.47, p = 0.03). Patients reported higher satisfaction with laser treatment up to 4 weeks after the final laser session. Average pain score for the laser treatment was 1.52 out of 10. No serious adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The 589/1319 nm SSDW laser may be an effective early adjunctive treatment for acne erythema, offering minimal discomfort with no downtime and may additionally improve acne severity.
Munoz-Lora VRM, Dias D, Bezerra F
… +8 more, Carnevali ACN, Varela R, Tedesco AD, Roschel P, Giro G, Pauletto P, Rogerio V, Germani M
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087429
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BACKGROUND: Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is widely used in aesthetic medicine due to its bio-stimulatory properties. However, limited research has compared different PLLA formulations. AIM: To evaluate the impact of PLLA fo...BACKGROUND: Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is widely used in aesthetic medicine due to its bio-stimulatory properties. However, limited research has compared different PLLA formulations. AIM: To evaluate the impact of PLLA formulation and injection depth (subcutaneous vs. supraperiosteal) using objective and subjective assessments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized clinical trial with split-face and parallel components included 20 participants. Each participant received a single PLLA formulation of PLLA-SCA (Sculptra) or PLLA-ELL (Elleva), while the injection plane was alternated between hemifaces. Dermal thickness was assessed using ultrasonography at baseline, 60, and 120 days. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). RESULTS: Dermal thickness increased over time but showed no significant differences between products (p = 0.78) or injection planes (p = 0.83). GAIS scores were positive at 60 days but declined significantly at 120 days (p = 0.031), particularly for PLLA-ELL (p = 0.022). No significant correlation was found between dermal thickness and GAIS scores at 60 (ρ = -0.038, p = 0.819) or 120 days (ρ = 0.016, p = 0.927). CONCLUSIONS: Injection depth did not significantly influence PLLA outcomes. However, differences in patient satisfaction between PLLA formulations highlight the role of physicochemical properties in treatment longevity. These findings emphasized the need to integrate objective and subjective measures in assessing bio-stimulatory treatments.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087426
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BACKGROUND: Significant complications are uncommon with aesthetic hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers, but inadvertent injection of dermal filler into an artery can result in tissue damage, scarring, visual loss, and eve...BACKGROUND: Significant complications are uncommon with aesthetic hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers, but inadvertent injection of dermal filler into an artery can result in tissue damage, scarring, visual loss, and even stroke. Practitioners must therefore reduce this risk through proactive, preventative techniques. Early recognition of vascular occlusion (VO) is also crucial to minimize subsequent tissue injury. AIMS: To review and summarize evidence-based preventative measures and first aid management strategies for HA-associated peripheral cutaneous VO, explicitly excluding ocular and neurological complications. PATIENTS/METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the BestBETs methodology to review the preventative measures available for reducing the risks of HA-associated peripheral VO, with ocular and neurological side effects considered beyond this review's scope. We then examined the pathophysiology of VO and the evidence for its management to establish an HA dermal filler VO "first aid" protocol. RESULTS: Our review underscored the importance of preventative strategies (practitioner skill and knowledge; cannula usage; microboluses of small filler volumes, low plunger pressure, and constant needle tip movement), along with the liberal usage of hyaluronidase, heat, and massage, and supports the addition of antiplatelet agents for acute management. Aspiration is controversial and cannot reliably exclude intravascular needle placement. CONCLUSIONS: Prompt recognition and management of VO are critical to prevent skin necrosis, scarring, and long-term morbidity. Preventative practice, immediate treatment protocols, and further research are essential to enhance clinician confidence and improve patient safety in aesthetic HA filler procedures.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087425
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BACKGROUND: The integrity of the skin barrier is fundamental to maintaining overall skin health, serving as the primary defense against environmental insults. Disruption of this barrier is linked to various dermatologica...BACKGROUND: The integrity of the skin barrier is fundamental to maintaining overall skin health, serving as the primary defense against environmental insults. Disruption of this barrier is linked to various dermatological issues, including inflammation, sensitivity, and premature aging. Therefore, technologies designed to reinforce the skin barrier and enhance moisture retention hold a significant promise for improving skin condition, resilience, and overall function. AIMS: To evaluate the restorative effect of DYNAMiQ technology on skin barrier function. METHODS: This prospective, single-center study enrolled 24 female subjects (n = 24, 26-64 years). Each subject received one DYNAMiQ treatment, with a follow-up assessment performed 7 days later. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured before treatment, immediately after, and at follow-up. Subject-reported outcomes were collected using comfort and satisfaction questionnaires, and standardized photographs were taken. RESULTS: TEWL increased slightly from a baseline of 11.95 ± 0.24 g/m/h to 12.70 ± 0.19 g/m/h immediately post-treatment. By day 7, TEWL decreased significantly to 6.63 ± 0.18 g/m/h, representing an 80.3% improvement in water vapor loss. All subjects (100%) expressed satisfaction with the results, and 96% reported that their skin felt more hydrated and nourished. CONCLUSIONS: DYNAMiQ technology effectively improves skin barrier function by significantly reducing TEWL. These findings are supported by high subject satisfaction and perceived hydration improvements.
Manzoni APD, Haddad A, Fogaça A
… +1 more, Ronsoni V
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087415
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BACKGROUND: The use of polydioxanone thread has grown substantially for facial soft-tissue repositioning and collagen biostimulation, with a well-established safety profile and favorable tissue integration. AIMS: To desc...BACKGROUND: The use of polydioxanone thread has grown substantially for facial soft-tissue repositioning and collagen biostimulation, with a well-established safety profile and favorable tissue integration. AIMS: To describe the reverse knot technique, a novel method for the implantation of polydioxanone suspension threads. PATIENTS/METHODS: We present an original polydioxanone thread-lifting technique designed primarily for patients with a "heavy face." The reverse knot technique positions the knot in the anterior portion of the face, below the zygomatic cutaneous ligament, whereas anchoring the distal end of the thread in the temporal fascia, creating a lever mechanism that enhances lifting of the middle and lower thirds of the face. CONCLUSIONS: The technique provides immediate and effective midface soft-tissue support, representing a minimally invasive alternative for face lifting and resulting in high patient satisfaction and minimal morbidity. The procedure should be performed by professionals experienced in thread lifting, as positioning the knot in the medial portion of the face increases support but also raises the risk of localized depressions at the knot site.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087414
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BACKGROUND: Scarring is a common dermatologic concern with both aesthetic and functional implications. Polynucleotide (PN)-based injectables have emerged as medical devices in dermatologic practice; however, real-world e...BACKGROUND: Scarring is a common dermatologic concern with both aesthetic and functional implications. Polynucleotide (PN)-based injectables have emerged as medical devices in dermatologic practice; however, real-world evidence on their use in scar management remains limited. OBJECTIVE: To describe current clinical practices, application patterns, and perceived roles of PN injections in scar prevention and management among dermatologists belonging to the Korean Society for Anti-Aging Dermatology (KAAD). METHODS: A nationwide, cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted among KAAD dermatologists. The questionnaire assessed PN use by scar type and etiology, injection techniques, combination strategies, and barriers to adoption. Data were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS: Among 501 respondents, 73.0% reported using PN for scar management. PN was most commonly used for scar prevention (81.4%) and atrophic scars (74.9%), with limited use in hypertrophic scars (10.1%). Intradermal injection over three sessions was the most common approach. PN was frequently incorporated into multimodal protocols, including botulinum toxin, fillers, corticosteroids, bleomycin, and energy-based devices. Reported benefits included improved tissue response, enhanced skin texture, and accelerated wound recovery. Key barriers to PN adoption were product cost (66.7%), limited awareness of its role in scar management (52.6%), and injection discomfort (25.2%). CONCLUSION: PN injections are commonly incorporated into scar prevention and management among KAAD dermatologists participating in this survey, particularly for acne-related, surgical, and traumatic scars. These findings provide real-world insight into current practice patterns and are hypothesis-generating. Prospective studies are needed to define optimal treatment protocols, including dosing, treatment intervals, and combination strategies.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087413
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BACKGROUND: In recent years, skin photoaging has received increasing attention, and laser therapy has become the most commonly used treatment due to its safety and efficacy; emerging evidence suggests that adjunctive "in...BACKGROUND: In recent years, skin photoaging has received increasing attention, and laser therapy has become the most commonly used treatment due to its safety and efficacy; emerging evidence suggests that adjunctive "integrated skincare" may enhance treatment benefits by reducing post-procedural reactions and supporting skin barrier repair. OBJECTIVE: The split-face, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, monocentric clinical trial was conducted to validate the potential efficacy of anti-photoaging and skin repair of a multifunctional serum formulation following a one-session therapy of 1064-nm picosecond Nd:YAG laser. METHODS: A total of twenty-four participants requesting picosecond laser therapy to address age-associated facial alterations were recruited for the study. Following a two-week washout period, participants underwent a single laser session on Day 1 (T1d) and applied either the multi-beneficial serum or the placebo to the designated facial side twice daily for eight weeks. Their facial skin manifestations were assessed by two dermatologists at baseline, T0, T15d, T29d, and T57d, and the Symptom Score Reduction Index (SSRI) was analyzed later. Non-invasive measurements and self-assessments were also administered at each visit. RESULTS: Twenty-four women aged 30-48 years completed the trial. The scores for all other manifestations of skin photoaging, with the exception of coarse wrinkles, decreased on both the test and control sides throughout follow-up. Based on SSRI values for individual photoaging signs, clinical efficacy rates for the test sides were superior to their counterparts. Regarding skin barrier function, decreasing transepidermal water loss and increasing stratum corneum hydration were observed on the test side during the period of recovery, with significant intergroup differences on T29d and T57d. Skin tone indicators (erythema index, melanin index, and tone evenness) rose shortly after the laser treatment and then declined on both sides; the magnitudes of reductions were greater on the test sides than on the control ones. Even though the improvement of skin surface evenness was found due to the therapy, the test sides exhibited more favorable changes than the controls, for instance, a reduction in the area proportion of crow's feet. No adverse events related to the test product were found during the study. CONCLUSION: The test serum enhanced the efficacy of 1064-nm picosecond laser treatment for facial photoaging and supported skin barrier recovery.
Zhang D, Chang Y, Bai Y
… +5 more, Tan A, He Z, Han Y, Chen A, Zhuo F
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42087402
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BACKGROUND: Post-acne erythema (PAE) is one of the most common inflammatory sequelae of acne. Although various therapeutic approaches are currently available, many are limited by suboptimal efficacy, poor tolerability, o...BACKGROUND: Post-acne erythema (PAE) is one of the most common inflammatory sequelae of acne. Although various therapeutic approaches are currently available, many are limited by suboptimal efficacy, poor tolerability, or high costs. This trial aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) mesotherapy for the treatment of PAE. METHODS: A total of 25 patients aged 18-35 years with clinically diagnosed PAE and bilaterally symmetrical facial lesions were enrolled. Three treatment sessions were performed at 4-week intervals. The primary outcome was the Clinician Erythema Assessment Scale (CEAS) score assessed at baseline and week 12. Secondary endpoints included the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Patient Self-Assessment (PSA), VISIA skin analysis (red areas, pores, texture), CK measurement parameters (erythema index, melanin index, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss), dermoscopic imaging, adverse effects, and relapse. RESULTS: Finally, 23 patients completed all treatment sessions. By week 12, the mesotherapy group showed significantly lower CEAS scores compared to the control group. In addition, patients in the mesotherapy group reported higher satisfaction levels. Improvements in red areas, pores, texture, erythema index, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss, and dermoscopic imaging were also more marked in the mesotherapy group. There was a significant change in the DLQI score, too. No serious adverse events or erythema flares occurred during the study. Among the 23 patients who completed the trial, only one experienced acne relapse. CONCLUSION: According to the results of this study, non-cross-linked HA mesotherapy is a promising and useful therapeutic option for PAE.
Sethi K, Sharma M, Singh A
… +2 more, Gulati M, Hemrajani P
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42036224
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BACKGROUND: Lichen Planus Pigmentosus (LPP) and Pigmentary Demarcation Lines (PDL) are common pigmentary disorders among individuals with skin of color (SoC), presenting challenges for treatment due to risks of side effe...BACKGROUND: Lichen Planus Pigmentosus (LPP) and Pigmentary Demarcation Lines (PDL) are common pigmentary disorders among individuals with skin of color (SoC), presenting challenges for treatment due to risks of side effects, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PicoSure laser, a 755-nm picosecond laser, has shown promise in treating pigmentary conditions with minimal adverse effects. AIMS: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of PicoSure laser treatment in patients with LPP and PDL, focusing on pigmentation reduction, patient satisfaction, and adverse effects. PATIENTS/METHODS: A prospective case series was conducted over 16 weeks, involving 10 patients (5 LPP, 5 PDL) with Fitzpatrick skin types III-V. Patients underwent PicoSure laser treatment using a 755-nm wavelength, with assessments based on pigmentation reduction, patient satisfaction (via a visual analogue scale), and adverse effects. RESULTS: All patients demonstrated significant improvement in pigmentation. In LPP cases, 4 patients achieved > 90% improvement (Grade V), while 1 patient showed > 75% (Grade IV) improvement. PDL patients had > 75% (Grade IV) improvement in the majority of the cases. No significant adverse effects were reported, with minimal PIH observed. High patient satisfaction was reported across all cases. CONCLUSIONS: PicoSure laser offers a safe and effective treatment for LPP and PDL in patients with skin of color, providing significant pigmentation reduction with minimal risk of PIH. It serves as a promising treatment alternative to traditional lasers, with potential for broader application in this demographic. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to confirm long-term efficacy.
Yi KH, Lee S, Song JK
… +3 more, Kim JH, Jalali A, Pupo D
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42033164
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BACKGROUND: Demand for minimally invasive nasal contour refinement has increased, particularly among patients seeking subtle esthetic improvement without surgery or volume augmentation. While hyaluronic acid filler-based...BACKGROUND: Demand for minimally invasive nasal contour refinement has increased, particularly among patients seeking subtle esthetic improvement without surgery or volume augmentation. While hyaluronic acid filler-based nonsurgical rhinoplasty can alter contour, it fundamentally adds volume and carries rare but severe vascular risks. In contrast, intralesional corticosteroids are known to induce localized soft-tissue thinning and have been used in postoperative rhinoplasty to manage supratip fullness, suggesting a potential role in nonsurgical soft-tissue contour modulation. OBJECTIVE: To describe a nonsurgical, nonfiller technique using hyperdiluted triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) microinjections for targeted reduction of nasal and alar soft-tissue fullness, and to present a structured case-series protocol with standardized Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) reporting. RESULTS: Twenty adult patients underwent a standardized 10-point microinjection protocol using hyperdiluted TAC (approximately 1.3 mg/mL), with 1.0 mL administered per session and sessions repeated every 3 weeks for a total of five sessions. The cumulative TAC dose per patient was approximately 6.5 mg. Outcomes were assessed using patient-reported GAIS at final follow-up. This manuscript provides a patient-level GAIS reporting framework and an illustrative results table to support transparent outcome documentation. The technique is conceptually distinct from surgical rhinoplasty and filler-based approaches, aiming for gradual, localized soft-tissue thinning through dose-minimized, distributed corticosteroid exposure.
Sun YD, Xu XW, Luo L
… +3 more, Ou YT, Cui YY, Liu DD
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42033152
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BACKGROUND: Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injection is the preferred minimally invasive treatment for masseter hypertrophy, but paradoxical masseteric bulging (PMB) is a distressing complication. How to clinically prevent...BACKGROUND: Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injection is the preferred minimally invasive treatment for masseter hypertrophy, but paradoxical masseteric bulging (PMB) is a distressing complication. How to clinically prevent and avoid the development of PMB remains a key concern for injecting physicians. METHODS: This study collected ultrasound and injection data from 22 PMB masseter muscles and 66 non-PMB masseter muscles between September 2024 and January 2025. Univariate analysis was used to compare imaging and injection-related parameters between the two groups, including masseter prominence, masseter thickness, deep inferior tendon (DIT) type, DIT thickness, intraoperative tactile sensation, and injected agent. RESULTS: Univariate analysis showed significant intergroup differences in masseter prominence grade, DIT type, DIT thickness, masseter thickness, injection dosage, and intraoperative tactile sensation (all p < 0.05). The PMB group had greater masseter thickness (13.30 ± 0.171 mm vs. 10.32 ± 0.169 mm), thicker DIT (0.85 [0.348] mm vs. 0.60 [0.208] mm), and a higher incidence of fascial penetration sensation than the control group. CONCLUSION: Preoperative ultrasound assessment of masseter and DIT characteristics, combined with individualized layered injection and intraoperative tactile feedback, effectively mitigates PMB risk. Ultrasound-guided precise supplementary injection is the preferred intervention for PMB management.
Manfredini M, Fiorito F, Marchio T
… +2 more, Ciardo S, Longo C
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42032889
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BACKGROUND: Acne scars are considered the result of complex pathophysiologic mechanisms and can have a profound impact on an individual's quality of life, often leading to diminished self-esteem, depression, and anxiety....BACKGROUND: Acne scars are considered the result of complex pathophysiologic mechanisms and can have a profound impact on an individual's quality of life, often leading to diminished self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Early detection and targeted treatment are crucial. To the best of our knowledge, the correlation between RCM features and acne scar risk has never been assessed. AIMS: Our study aims to explore if any specific morphological RCM feature is associated with acne scar formation and progression. METHODS: Patients were subdivided into groups to compare average values or frequencies of each analyzed variable. To assess the significance of clinical changes between T0 and T1, Student's t-test and Chi-squared test were performed. Odds ratios were calculated to estimate the relative risk of developing acne scars when a specific parameter was detected. RESULTS: Our study demonstrates that, in a population predominantly constituted by IGA = 2 grade patients, clinical examination alone does not effectively identify the risk of novel acne scarring. The presence of RCM inflammatory infiltrate was significantly associated with an increased risk of scarring; OR 4.23 (CI: 2.05-8.71). CONCLUSIONS: Identifying specific microscopic parameters, such as vascular changes and inflammatory infiltrate in the skin of acne patients, could be helpful to predict development of new acne scars, allowing for optimized therapies at early disease stages.
Safir A, Sattler S, Da Mota R
… +7 more, Kowalska-Olędzka E, Kedar DJ, Gronovich Y, Lotan AM, Shneider S, Meunier S, Artzi O
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 Apr · PMID 42029422
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BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) products used for nasolabial fold (NLF) correction are typically crosslinked with 1,4-Butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE) and contain high HA concentrations and short HA chains. These char...BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) products used for nasolabial fold (NLF) correction are typically crosslinked with 1,4-Butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE) and contain high HA concentrations and short HA chains. These characteristics may contribute to increased stiffness, enhanced immune reactivity, and less natural aesthetic outcomes. A novel HA material utilizing click-chemistry for crosslinking to preserve long-chain structure and afford low HA concentration and minimal modification was developed as a potential alternative. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the 12-month safety and clinical performance of a non-BDDE, click-chemistry crosslinked, long-chain HA compound (HLR-2, Hallura) for NLF correction. METHODS: Two prospective, open-label studies were conducted, one in Europe and the other in Israel. All subjects received HLR-2 injections and were followed for 12 months. Efficacy was assessed by the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, and patient satisfaction measures. Safety was monitored through reporting of adverse events (AE) and documentation of injection site reactions (ISR). RESULTS: Sixty-two subjects (29 Israeli and 33 European) were included. Responder rates at 6 months were 90.7% and 86.4%, respectively, with improvements sustained throughout 12 months. Satisfaction levels remained high (≥ 94% at all time points). ISRs were mild and transient, with no serious or delayed-onset AEs, and favorable induction of collagen and elastin and enhanced tissue integration were documented. CONCLUSION: HLR-2 demonstrated high efficacy, high patient satisfaction, and a favorable safety profile over 12 months. The product's distinctive composition and clinical performance support its use for aesthetic indications, with potential for broader therapeutic applications.