BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency (RF) devices are employed for noninvasive facial rejuvenation. A novel bimodal RF system delivers monopolar and bipolar energy sequentially within a single shot to enhance efficacy and safety....BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency (RF) devices are employed for noninvasive facial rejuvenation. A novel bimodal RF system delivers monopolar and bipolar energy sequentially within a single shot to enhance efficacy and safety. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a bimodal-RF device, DENSITY Noir (Jeisys Med Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea), for the treatment of lower facial laxity. METHODS: This prospective, open-label clinical study enrolled 26 adults (n = 26; 30-60 years) with mild-to-moderate lower facial laxity. All participants received a single RF treatment session with DENSITY Noir. Outcomes were assessed using investigator and participant global assessments, the Facial Laxity Rating Scale, and 3D Antera imaging for nasolabial fold parameters, together with texture and brown spot measured by VISIA. Safety and tolerability were monitored throughout the study. Statistical analyses included Friedman and Wilcoxon tests, marginal homogeneity tests, and linear mixed-effects model tests. RESULTS: Twenty-three (n = 23) participants completed follow-up. Nearly half (47.83%) achieved marked improvement (51%-75%) on the 6-point global improvement scale at 6 months. Facial laxity ratings significantly improved at 1, 3, and 6 months vs. baseline (p < 0.001). Antera analysis confirmed significant reductions in nasolabial fold cross-sectional area (baseline: 41.94; 1 month: 38.87; 3 months: 39.63; 6 months: 35.72; p = 0.02) and wrinkle width (baseline: 1.98 mm; 6 months: 1.85 mm; p = 0.01). About 78% of participants reported high satisfaction at 6 months. Adverse effects included transient erythema (96.15%), edema (61.53%), and mild procedural pain; all adverse events were minor, transient, and self-limiting. CONCLUSIONS: DENSITY Noir was associated with significant improvement in lower facial laxity with a favorable safety and tolerability profile in this cohort. Further controlled studies are warranted to confirm efficacy and durability. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: TCTR20250924004.
BACKGROUND: Striae distensae (SD) is a prevalent dermatological disorder characterized by linear skin atrophy. It is associated with various factors, including mechanical tension, hormonal changes, and genetics. Many art...BACKGROUND: Striae distensae (SD) is a prevalent dermatological disorder characterized by linear skin atrophy. It is associated with various factors, including mechanical tension, hormonal changes, and genetics. Many articles on SD have been published. Nevertheless, a systematic bibliometric analysis of global research trends in SD has not been conducted. OBJECTIVE: To comprehensively analyze the field of SD using bibliometric tools, aiming to summarize the historical and current research progress in the field, identify global research hotspots and dynamic changes, and finally explore the potential direction of future research and clinical application. METHODOLOGY: Records related to SD were collected in the Web of Science Core Collection database. Citation burst analysis was conducted to identify key authors who showed significant contributions in SD. A bibliometric analysis was applied to identify critical research trends in this field. RESULTS: A total of 234 records related to SD from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2024 were collected. This study highlighted a steady growth in the number of publications from the United States and Egypt. Hague A., Lokhande AJ., and Hodeib AA. showed their significant contributions from their research on the treatment of SD. A bibliometric analysis showed therapy and management were the hotspots of this field. The temporal clustering analysis of 287 keywords indicated a transition from fundamental studies to increasing research themes. CONCLUSION: The bibliometric analysis of 234 SD publications from 2015 to 2024 has given us an insight into the trends and hotspots in the field, which are important for promoting international collaboration and driving improvements in clinical practice. More scientific breakthroughs in the prevention and treatment of SD are needed to meet the growing global demand for skin health.
BACKGROUND: Supraumbilical skin laxity is a major surgical challenge. A literature review on laser-assisted liposuction/lipolysis (LAL/L) speaks in favor of skin tightening. Alternative methods include visible postoperat...BACKGROUND: Supraumbilical skin laxity is a major surgical challenge. A literature review on laser-assisted liposuction/lipolysis (LAL/L) speaks in favor of skin tightening. Alternative methods include visible postoperative scar. AIMS: The aim is to determine the vertical retraction of the supraumbilical skin and its association with age, gender, body mass index, skin elasticity and the presence of stretch marks as well as the reduction of the circumference of the abdomen (7 days, 3 weeks and 3 months after the procedure). PATIENTS/METHODS: The study includes 59 patients who underwent abdominal LAL/L. Preoperatively, height, weight, body mass index, sex, skin elasticity, and the presence of stretch marks were recorded. The distance from the jugulum to the upper edge of the umbilicus, the circumference of the abdomen at the level of the umbilicus, and five centimeters above (before; after 1 week; after 3 weeks and after 3 months) were measured. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found in the reduction of the distance from the jugulum to the upper edge of the umbilicus (p < 0.001) with an average reduction of 1.9 cm. The amount of the parametric Pearson correlation coefficient, showing the vertical retraction in correlation with circumferential reduction, is 0.41. The latter is statistically significant (p = 0.002). Through multivariate analysis and a set of predictor variables, it was determined that the initial jugulum-umbilicus distance before surgery and elasticity have a statistically significant influence on supraumbilical skin retraction. CONCLUSION: Laser-assisted liposuction/lipolysis is associated with measurable changes in supraumbilical contour and apparent vertical skin retraction, with greater effects observed in patients with higher preoperative skin elasticity and a longer preoperative jugulum-umbilicus distance, highlighting the importance of objective measurements for patient selection.
BACKGROUND: Chlorella polysaccharide extract (CPE) is a natural compound with known antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. This study investigated its anti-aging potential and underlying mechanism, with a focus on...BACKGROUND: Chlorella polysaccharide extract (CPE) is a natural compound with known antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. This study investigated its anti-aging potential and underlying mechanism, with a focus on dermatological relevance. METHODS: The anti-aging effects of CPE were evaluated using an oxidative stress-induced zebrafish model in vivo. Key parameters assessed included reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), neutrophil infiltration, pro-inflammatory factors, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, anti-inflammatory IL-10 levels, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity. Network pharmacology identified the involved pathways. In vitro validation in oxidatively stressed HaCaT cells measured senescence/inflammation-related genes (P53, c-JUN, STAT3, NF-κB) and MAPK phosphorylation (Jnk, p38). RESULTS: In the zebrafish model, CPE significantly reduced ROS, MDA, neutrophil infiltration, and pro-inflammatory factors, while enhancing SOD, CAT, and IL-10 levels. Notably, CPE suppressed SA-β-gal activity, indicating a direct anti-aging effect. Network pharmacology identified the MAPK signaling pathway as central to CPE's mechanism of action. In HaCaT cells, CPE downregulated P53, c-JUN, STAT3, and NF-κB, and specifically inhibited the phosphorylation of Jnk and p38 kinases within the MAPK cascade. CONCLUSIONS: CPE exerts potent anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activities primarily through suppression of the MAPK signaling pathway, leading to reduced expression of downstream mediators. These findings highlight CPE as a promising bioactive ingredient for dermatological applications and functional skincare products.
BACKGROUND: Perception of facial attractiveness is influenced by cultural and ethnic factors. Understanding how different populations perceive facial modifications is important for guiding aesthetic treatments. OBJECTIVE...BACKGROUND: Perception of facial attractiveness is influenced by cultural and ethnic factors. Understanding how different populations perceive facial modifications is important for guiding aesthetic treatments. OBJECTIVES: To compare the perceptions of Caucasian and Chinese observers regarding facial modifications that simulate common aesthetic procedures and to identify potential differences or similarities between these populations. METHODS: In this cross-sectional survey-based investigation, 263 participants (112 Chinese, 151 Polish Caucasian) evaluated experimentally modified images of male and female faces from their own ethnic group. The images were modified to simulate increased lip and cheek volume and lateral elevation of the eyebrows and canthal angle, either alone or in combination. Participants rated each image on attractiveness, unattractiveness, femininity, and masculinity using a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical comparisons were made between ethnic groups and between modified and unmodified images. RESULTS: Both ethnic groups rated faces with multiple modifications as less attractive and more unattractive compared to unmodified faces. Periorbital modifications were rated as least attractive and most unattractive in Caucasian observers, while cheek modifications were rated as least attractive and most unattractive by Chinese participants, particularly women. Increased lip volume decreased attractiveness in both groups but did not significantly alter ratings of masculinity or femininity. CONCLUSIONS: Caucasian and Chinese observers share similar (negative) perceptions toward excessive facial modifications but differ in the specific features they evaluate least attractive. These results indicate that a similar aesthetic perception emerges particularly when multiple facial features are altered.
BACKGROUND: Cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) are currently the two most representative dermal fillers. However, the tissue response and safety profiles of their combined administration are not...BACKGROUND: Cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) are currently the two most representative dermal fillers. However, the tissue response and safety profiles of their combined administration are not fully elucidated. This study aims to evaluate the safety and tissue reactions following the injection of HA filler, PCL microsphere-based filler, and the mixture of HA/PCL filler. METHODS: The dermal filler was injected on the back of the rabbit. Five injection experimental groups were established: (1) HA filler alone, (2) PCL microsphere-based filler alone, (3) HA filler followed by PCL microsphere-based filler after 1 month, (4) PCL microsphere-based filler followed by HA filler after 1 month, and (5) premixed HA and PCL filler (1:1). Histological evaluation of tissue was conducted at 1, 2, and 3 months after injection. RESULTS: PCL microsphere-based filler alone induced a time-dependent increase in inflammatory response, with relatively notable inflammation observed around microspheres by month 3. In contrast, HA filler alone elicited minimal inflammation during the observation period. In all combined application groups (sequential and premixed), HA filler effectively improved the dispersion of PCL microspheres. Compared to PCL microsphere-based filler alone, these combined approaches demonstrated a mitigated initial inflammatory response. Collagen deposition was negligible in HA filler groups throughout the process. PCL microsphere-based filler alone stimulated mild collagen deposition by month 3, with notable Type III collagen generation. The presence of HA did not directly enhance collagen deposition. CONCLUSIONS: The combined or sequential injection of HA filler and PCL microsphere-based filler alleviated the initial inflammatory response and improved PCL microsphere dispersion compared to PCL microsphere-based filler injection alone, indicating a favorable safety profile. However, HA filler did not directly promote collagen deposition. These findings support the combined use of these materials as a safe approach with a modulated tissue reaction.
BACKGROUND: Skin aging is a multifactorial process influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Beyond photoaging and oxidative stress, glycation and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are increasingly recognized a...BACKGROUND: Skin aging is a multifactorial process influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Beyond photoaging and oxidative stress, glycation and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are increasingly recognized as key drivers of cutaneous senescence. OBJECTIVE: This article reviews the role of glycation in skin aging, its clinical features, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies, with a focus on implications for aesthetic dermatology. METHODS: This narrative review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2010-February 2026). Search terms included "skin glycation," "advanced glycation end-products," "cutaneous aging," "RAGE," "skin autofluorescence," and "anti-glycation." Priority was given to human studies and dermatologic relevance. DISCUSSION: AGEs accumulate in dermal proteins such as collagen and elastin, inducing cross-links that reduce elasticity, increase stiffness, and impair tissue repair. AGE-RAGE signaling amplifies oxidative stress and inflammation, accelerating dermal degeneration. Clinically, glycation contributes to wrinkles, laxity, dyschromia, and impaired healing. Diagnostic tools such as skin autofluorescence (SAF) enable non-invasive assessment, though limitations remain across skin tones. Therapeutic approaches include lifestyle modification, topical and systemic agents, and energy-based devices, although robust clinical evidence remains limited. Emerging integration of imaging, biomarkers, and artificial intelligence may enable personalized anti-glycation strategies. CONCLUSION: Glycation represents a key yet underrecognized driver of cutaneous aging. Addressing glycation may enhance both aesthetic outcomes and long-term skin health, though further clinical validation is required.
BACKGROUND: Rosacea is characterized by facial erythema that can be resistant to improvement. AIMS: This research evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of a topical anti-inflammatory moisturizer containing oat and aloe...BACKGROUND: Rosacea is characterized by facial erythema that can be resistant to improvement. AIMS: This research evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of a topical anti-inflammatory moisturizer containing oat and aloe as compared to 0.75% metronidazole cream over 12 weeks. METHODS: This double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial enrolled 60 adults with mild-to-severe rosacea, randomized to either the study anti-inflammatory moisturizer or 0.75% metronidazole cream daily for 12 weeks. Participants were evaluated at baseline and Weeks 4, 8, and 12. Efficacy was measured by investigator global assessment (IGA) of erythema and inflammatory lesion counts. Tolerability was assessed by the investigator and subjects. RESULTS: Both study products demonstrated similar IGA scores at Week 4. By Week 8, the study oat and aloe anti-inflammatory moisturizer demonstrated significantly greater reduction in both erythema IGA (50% vs. 22%, p = 0.001) and lesion counts (74% vs. 6%, p = 0.015). At the conclusion of the 12-week study, the anti-inflammatory moisturizer produced a reduction in IGA erythema of 54% vs. 23% (p < 0.001) and a reduction in inflammatory lesion counts of 74% vs. 17% (p = 0.044). No tolerability issues were noted. CONCLUSIONS: The oat and aloe anti-inflammatory moisturizer was superior and outperformed 0.75% metronidazole cream in both erythema and lesion reduction in rosacea subjects after 8 and 12 weeks of treatment.
BACKGROUND: Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is a common cutaneous condition of the eyelid, which compromises eyelid aesthetics. Non-surgical treatments are often limited by multiple sessions and high cost. Surgical treatmen...BACKGROUND: Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is a common cutaneous condition of the eyelid, which compromises eyelid aesthetics. Non-surgical treatments are often limited by multiple sessions and high cost. Surgical treatment, although effective, is constrained by the limited availability of eyelid skin and the risk of ectropion. A simple, safe, and effective therapeutic technique is essential for managing XP. AIMS: This study aimed to present a new dermatologic treatment for XP and assess its effectiveness. METHODS: A novel technique, punch-assisted xanthelasma nucleus excision (PAXNE), was applied in four cases of mild-to-moderate XP (Grades I and II) under local anesthesia. Clinical photographs of the patients at the preoperative and postoperative follow-up for 1 month were recorded. Treatment outcomes were assessed at a 1-month follow-up using a 5-Likert scale for periorbital aesthetics and patient satisfaction. Additionally, two independent physicians evaluated treatment efficacy based on lesion clearance (0-4 Scale). RESULTS: Postoperative scarring was inconspicuous, and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory at the 1-month follow-up. After 1-month follow-up, the average 5-Likert scale score for periorbital aesthetics was 3.25, and the average patient satisfaction score was 3.75. The objective treatment efficacy score reached 4.0 for all cases, indicating over 75% clearance of the lesions. No postoperative complications, such as eyelid ectropion, were found in the preliminary series. CONCLUSIONS: PAXNE is a promising, minimally invasive approach showing excellent short-term aesthetic results, but it needs more investigation in larger cohorts with long-term follow-up.
BACKGROUND: The general way about the cosmetic efficacy evaluation of skin translucency is scored by experienced specialists. Although this approach is convenient, it is subjective, non-quantitative, and lacks uniform ev...BACKGROUND: The general way about the cosmetic efficacy evaluation of skin translucency is scored by experienced specialists. Although this approach is convenient, it is subjective, non-quantitative, and lacks uniform evaluation criteria across distinct groups. AIMS: To investigate the potential use of a probe-derived parameter (alpha value) as an index of skin translucency and to evaluate its association with physiological parameters related to skin tone and appearance in young Chinese females. METHODS: A total of 155 healthy female participants aged 18-25 years were included. The participants were classified into different groups based on skin sensitivity, sebum level, and hydration level. Non-invasive instruments were used to measure skin conditions. RESULTS: The results showed that alpha value has no significant difference between sensitive and non-sensitive skin in this cohort. Based on the device-specific interpretation used in this study, a higher alpha value corresponded to lower translucency. When participants were divided into three skin type groups (dry, oily and normal skin), the oily skin group showed significantly higher alpha value than the dry skin group. The correlation analysis results revealed that the alpha value was significantly positively correlated with sebum level, hydration, MI, EI and a* values, and significantly negatively correlated with L* and ITA° values. The multiple linear regression analysis showed that EI, hydration, MI and sebum level significantly predicted the alpha value. CONCLUSION: In young Chinese females, the probe-derived alpha value has a strong association with EI, hydration, MI, and sebum level. Lower alpha, which indicates higher translucency within the device framework, corresponded to lower MI, EI, sebum and hydration. These findings are exploratory and warrant further validation in broader populations and with independent optical methods.
BACKGROUND: Although topical retinoids are first-line therapy for mild-to-moderate acne, treatment-related irritation often limits adherence to long-term therapy. However, dermocosmetic adjuncts may improve treatment out...BACKGROUND: Although topical retinoids are first-line therapy for mild-to-moderate acne, treatment-related irritation often limits adherence to long-term therapy. However, dermocosmetic adjuncts may improve treatment outcomes and tolerability. AIM: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of a triple acid-containing serum (TAS) in mild-to-moderate acne. METHODS: An 8-week, open-label, randomized controlled trial of 41 patients with mild-to-moderate acne was performed. The participants received either TAS + adapalene gel (AG) (treatment group) or AG alone (control group) for 4 weeks, followed by a 4-week maintenance phase in which AG was discontinued, and TAS was continued only in the experimental group. Lesion counts, Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), microcomedone counts, skin physiological parameters, and VISIA-CR were performed at baseline and 2, 4, and 8 weeks. RESULTS: A significantly greater reduction in noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total lesions, IGA scores, and microcomedone counts was observed in the experimental group. The control group showed rebound worsening after AG withdrawal. Improvements in skin physiological parameters were observed in both groups, although without statistical significance. Mild and transient adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: TAS in combination with AG was shown to improve mild-to-moderate acne with good tolerability and may effectively reduce the recurrence rate when applied as a maintenance treatment post-AG.
BACKGROUND: Periorbital rejuvenation presents significant challenges: hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers carry risks of edema and the Tyndall effect, whereas traditional poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) may lead to nodule formation a...BACKGROUND: Periorbital rejuvenation presents significant challenges: hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers carry risks of edema and the Tyndall effect, whereas traditional poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) may lead to nodule formation and delayed inflammatory reactions. To address these limitations, the PLLA-b-poly (ethylene glycol) (PLLA-b-PEG)/HA composite filler is designed to optimize tissue compatibility and minimize these specific adverse reactions. OBJECTIVE: To comprehensively evaluate the physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and clinical efficacy of this filler for periorbital volume deficiency. METHODS: Physicochemical validation included SEM morphology, extrusion force, osmolality, and mechanical support testing. In vivo safety and collagenogenesis were assessed via histology in a rabbit model. Additionally, a retrospective clinical study of 15 subjects with infraorbital hollowing evaluated efficacy at 1, 3, and 6 months using the Allergan Infraorbital Hollows Scale (AIHS) and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). All subjects also underwent clinical safety follow-up through 12-14 months; in a subset of subjects, additional 12-14-month photographs were available for descriptive review, but these images were not included in the formal efficacy analysis. RESULTS: The filler exhibited uniform microspheres, physiological osmolality (302 mOsmol/kg), and superior mechanical support. In vivo, it showed mild inflammation with neocollagenesis. In the retrospective clinical analysis (N = 15), the median AIHS score improved significantly from 2.0 at baseline to 1.0 at 6 months (p < 0.0001). At 6 months, 93.3% of subjects achieved ≥ 1-grade improvement. GAIS improvement rates were stable (p > 0.05), with no significant difference between subject and investigator ratings. Adverse events were mild, and no delayed or late-onset adverse events, such as nodules or granulomas, were identified during the extended safety follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The PLLA-b-PEG/HA filler demonstrates unique physicochemical properties and a dual-action mechanism of immediate filling and long-term regeneration, establishing it as a promising, safe treatment for periorbital rejuvenation.
Nilforoushzadeh MA, Savoji PB, Fakhim T
… +2 more, Rafiei S, Mirbahari SN
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42153325
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BACKGROUND: The landscape of aesthetic medicine has increasingly favored minimally invasive interventions, with the 1470 nm diode laser (Endolift) gaining prominence as a viable alternative to surgical lifting for soft-t...BACKGROUND: The landscape of aesthetic medicine has increasingly favored minimally invasive interventions, with the 1470 nm diode laser (Endolift) gaining prominence as a viable alternative to surgical lifting for soft-tissue remodeling and lipolysis. AIMS: This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanism, clinical versatility, and safety profile of Endolift. A primary objective is to evaluate the synergistic potential of combining this technology with complementary aesthetic modalities to optimize patient outcomes. PATIENTS/METHODS: A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted. We analyzed key literature on the 1470 nm diode laser, selecting studies that document its efficacy as monotherapy and in combination with injectables or regenerative techniques. RESULTS: The 1470 nm wavelength exhibits high affinity for water, facilitating selective lipolysis and stimulating deep collagen restructuring through controlled photothermal interaction. Clinical findings consistently report tangible improvements in skin laxity and contouring with limited recovery time. Notably, multimodal protocols-integrating dermal fillers, nanofat, or surface resurfacing-appear to enhance aesthetic outcomes by simultaneously addressing volume deficits and superficial texture alongside tissue tightening. CONCLUSIONS: Endolift represents a robust, minimally invasive tool for facial and body sculpting. While current data support its efficacy, particularly within multimodal treatment plans, the standardization of protocols through larger, randomized controlled trials remains a priority to confirm long-term durability.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42152593
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BACKGROUND: Device-based aesthetic procedures such as microneedling, microdermabrasion and microvibration have gained widespread clinical and institutional use for skin rejuvenation, yet the underlying biological mechani...BACKGROUND: Device-based aesthetic procedures such as microneedling, microdermabrasion and microvibration have gained widespread clinical and institutional use for skin rejuvenation, yet the underlying biological mechanisms and the robustness of clinical evidence remain incompletely established. OBJECTIVE: This review synthesizes current clinical, histological and molecular data to evaluate the efficacy, safety and mechanistic pathways engaged by these instrument-assisted dermatologic interventions. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of clinical trials, in vivo and ex vivo analyses, and mechanistic studies was conducted to examine outcomes related to clinical skin appearance, inflammatory signaling and protein expression. RESULTS: This review summarizes clinical, histological, and molecular evidence on these interventions. All modalities influence skin texture, scarring, and epidermal renewal, primarily through transient activation of inflammatory pathways, followed by fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix remodeling. Understanding these pathways can guide treatment selection and optimization, while standardized studies and deeper proteomic analyses are needed to refine personalized approaches.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42152519
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BACKGROUND: Skin dullness, characterized by pigmentation disorders and yellowing, is a major cosmetic concern in Asian populations. Lipofuscin exhibits ultraviolet (UV)/visible light spectral absorption, reduces skin ref...BACKGROUND: Skin dullness, characterized by pigmentation disorders and yellowing, is a major cosmetic concern in Asian populations. Lipofuscin exhibits ultraviolet (UV)/visible light spectral absorption, reduces skin reflectance, and contributes to dullness, whereas existing therapies targeting melanogenesis and glycation lack comprehensive efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the multimodal anti-dullness effects of a novel formulation (HNHT: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, hydrolyzed red algae, and tranexamic acid). METHODS: In vitro models (melanocytes, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, ex vivo skin model, and three-dimensional (3D) skin models) were used to assess melanin regulation, glycation inhibition, and lipofuscin clearance. RESULTS: In ultraviolet B (UVB)-exposed 3D skin models, 12.5% HNHT significantly improved skin color, appearance, and brightness (8.44% increase in L* value) and reduced melanin content (12.5% inhibition). Then, 12.5% HNHT downregulated the expression of key melanogenic genes (TYR and MITF; p < 0.001) in melanocytes and decreased UVB-induced α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone secretion in keratinocytes (2867.78 versus 3444.72 pg/mL; p < 0.05). The formulation enhanced melanosome clearance through autophagy activation (174% LC3-II increase, 80% GP100 reduction; p < 0.01) and boosted antioxidant capacity via Nrf2 activation and reactive oxygen species reduction (p < 0.05). In glycation, 50% HNHT upregulated anti-glycation enzymes (GLO1, GLO2, and GPX1) and reduced carboxymethyllysine (CML) by 23.16% in fibroblasts (p < 0.01), while 100% HNHT decreased CML by 34.93% in ex vivo skin model. Furthermore, 50% HNHT suppressed hydrogen peroxide-induced lipofuscin accumulation by 52.20% (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight HNHT as a multitargeted therapeutic agent that alleviates skin dullness through melanogenesis inhibition, enhances melanosome degradation, suppresses glycation, mitigates oxidative stress, and promotes lipofuscin clearance, thereby establishing a novel therapeutic paradigm against solar radiation-induced hyperpigmentation and skin yellowing.
Abud B, McGinn L, Cawthon E
… +4 more, Pankey A, Gandhi N, Carvajal C, Dayan S
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42152512
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BACKGROUND: Topical growth factor-containing cosmeceuticals are widely used to improve visible signs of facial photoaging. Interest has increased in peptide-based alternatives that aim to support similar regenerative pat...BACKGROUND: Topical growth factor-containing cosmeceuticals are widely used to improve visible signs of facial photoaging. Interest has increased in peptide-based alternatives that aim to support similar regenerative pathways without relying on human-derived biologics. AIM: To compare the clinical efficacy, tolerability, and exploratory psychosocial perception outcomes of a topical recombinant epidermal growth factor (REGF), oligopeptide-1, serum with a human-derived growth factor (operationally labeled HDEGF) serum. METHODS: This was a 12-week, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, parallel-group pilot trial involving 20 adult female participants (50-65 years), predominantly non-Hispanic White with Fitzpatrick Skin Types II and III with moderate to severe facial photoaging. Participants applied their assigned serum twice daily and used a standardized cleanser and sunscreen regimen. Primary endpoints included investigator-rated changes in skin texture and firmness. Secondary endpoints included participant-reported satisfaction. Tertiary endpoints evaluated psychosocial perception using standardized photographs rated by blinded lay evaluators. RESULTS: Investigator ratings favored the REGF cohort for improvements in skin texture and firmness at later study visits, while global wrinkle severity ratings changed minimally in both cohorts. Participants in the REGF cohort reported higher satisfaction across multiple questionnaire items. In exploratory lay-evaluator assessments, small between-visit differences were observed in select perception domains, including estimated age. CONCLUSION: In this pilot study, the REGF formulation was associated with greater improvement in selected investigator- and participant-reported outcomes compared with the HDEGF formulation over 12 weeks. Perception-based findings are exploratory and limited by the non-validated nature of the rating instrument. Interpretation is further limited by the small, female-only sample and short follow-up; larger, longer, and more diverse studies are warranted.
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42144810
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BACKGROUND: Diffuse hair loss and shedding is often managed with food supplements, yet evidence for ingredient combinations is limited. Our exploratory study evaluated a nutritional supplement (Priorin capsules, Bayer) c...BACKGROUND: Diffuse hair loss and shedding is often managed with food supplements, yet evidence for ingredient combinations is limited. Our exploratory study evaluated a nutritional supplement (Priorin capsules, Bayer) containing millet extract, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), L-cystine, and biotin (vitamin B7) in healthy subjects with light diffuse hair loss. METHODS: In this open-label, intra-individual, multicenter study, subjects with non-illness-related, light diffuse hair loss used the product (two capsules/day) for 12 weeks. Endpoints included objective measurements of hair density, hair growth coefficient, and hair loss (phototrichogram), subjective evaluations of hair appearance, beauty and volume (hairdresser-rated), consumer perception and acceptance, and tolerability. RESULTS: In 112 subjects (mean age 32 ± 1 years; 93.8% female), hair density (n = 109) and the proportion of hairs in the anagen phase increased significantly, while the telogen proportion decreased (p < 0.001, week 12 vs. baseline). Hair loss had declined by 59% at week 12 (p < 0.001). Significant improvements in the hairdresser-rated hair quality and appearance parameters (shine, softness/elasticity, strength, smoothness, dryness, vitality, volume) were observed (p < 0.001). From week 2, subjects reported progressive improvement in appearance, growth, and slowing of hair loss. At week 12, 90% of subjects perceived improved hair appearance and growth, 85% reported slowing down of hair loss, and 82% were satisfied with the overall hair improvements with treatment. The supplement was generally well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of millet extract, pantothenic acid, L-cystine, and biotin was associated with reduced hair loss, improvements in hair growth and appearance, and high subject satisfaction, and was well tolerated over 12 weeks.
Karakoyun Ö, Kaya K, Kankılıç AT
… +1 more, Ecer N
J Cosmet Dermatol
· 2026 May · PMID 42144286
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BACKGROUND: Facial aesthetic assessment is inherently subjective, leading to significant inter-observer variability in treatment planning. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers a potential framework for standardized morpho...BACKGROUND: Facial aesthetic assessment is inherently subjective, leading to significant inter-observer variability in treatment planning. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers a potential framework for standardized morphometric reporting. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether AI-augmented morphometric reports improve the consistency of simulated aesthetic treatment plans among dermatologists. METHODS: Six dermatologists (3 experts, 3 residents) proposed treatment plans (neurotoxin units and filler volumes) for 76 standardized frontal images from the Chicago Face Database. In Phase I (Baseline), raters used visual intuition. In Phase II (AI-Augmented), raters were provided with objective morphometric reports. The primary outcome was the change in inter-rater reliability, measured by the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC(2,1)). RESULTS: Significant baseline asymmetry (> 1.5 scaled units) was present in 58.4% of cases. The overall ICC(2,1) improved from 0.62 (95% CI: 0.54-0.69) to 0.88 (95% CI: 0.81-0.93) following AI augmentation. The most substantial improvement was observed in the resident group (ICC: 0.46 to 0.84). The mean absolute deviation from the expert-group mean declined from 0.34 to 0.12 scaled units. CONCLUSION: AI-augmented morphometric reporting was associated with improved inter-rater agreement and reduced variability in simulated facial aesthetic treatment planning, particularly among less experienced raters. However, improved agreement does not necessarily reflect improved clinical accuracy, and future validation against clinical outcomes is warranted. The AI system functioned as a decision-support tool rather than a replacement for clinician judgment.