In vivo evaluation of novel particle-free polycaprolactone fillers for safety, degradation, and neocollagenesis in a rat model

Tailoring biomaterials for skin anti-aging

Skin aging is the phenomenon of degenerative changes in the structure and function of skin tissues over time and is manifested by a gradual loss of skin elasticity and firmness, an increased number of wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Skin anti-aging refers to a reduction in the skin aging phenomenon through medical cosmetic technologies. In recent years, new biomaterials have been continuously developed for improving the appearance of the skin through mechanical tissue filling, regulating collagen synthesis and degradation, inhibiting pigmentation, and repairing the skin barrier. This review summarizes the mechanisms associated with skin aging, describes the biomaterials that are commonly used in medical aesthetics and their possible modes of action, and discusses the application strategies of biomaterials in this area. Moreover, the synergistic effects of such biomaterials and other active ingredients, such as stem cells, exosomes, growth factors, and antioxidants, on tissue regeneration and anti-aging are evaluated. Finally, the possible challenges and development prospects of biomaterials in the field of anti-aging are discussed, and novel ideas for future innovations in this area are summarized.

Radiofrequency‐assisted subcision combined with polycaprolactone‐based dermal fillers in the management of atrophic facial acne scars: A pilot investigative study

OBJECTIVE

The scar's appearance and psychological burden are the most esthetically challenging issues in acne vulgaris. This study investigated the effectiveness and safety profile of combined radiofrequency-assisted subcision, which, even though effective on both Icepeak and Rolling subtypes, is only mildly effective on boxcar lesions, and polycaprolactone-based dermal filler with collagen stimulation potency in managing atrophic postacne scars.

METHODS

Our quasi-experimental single-arm study, after the inclusion of 10 cases over the age of 18 with moderate to severe mixed atrophic facial acne scarring, was carried out in two 3-month separate sessions, during and after the intended intervention of which the experienced lesion improvements and also adverse events were documented. Moreover, all cases were followed for 3 months after the last session, evaluating the differences in the mentioned outcomes.

RESULTS

We found the combined intervention to be highly effective in improving the intended outcomes, with the total number of acne lesions (p-value < 0.001), along with the total number of Ice peak (p-value = 0.002), Rolling (p-value < 0.001), and boxcar (p-value = 0.023) lesions demonstrating statistically significant changes.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency-assisted subcision combined with polycaprolactone-based dermal fillers can be an effective intervention in managing postacne scars. However, we recommend that randomized clinical trials with larger sample sizes be carried out for a more precise conclusion.

Evaluation of the biostimulatory effects and the level of neocollagenesis of dermal fillers: a review

Dermal fillers have become one of the main tools for soft tissue augmentation in the field of cosmetic dermatology. There are many types of fillers. While hyaluronic acid fillers are generally accepted as ones that fill in a space, they and other materials have been shown to have a biostimulatory effect on tissue through the process of a controlled foreign body reaction. Little research is available comparing their effects in terms of new collagen formation post administration. The goal of this review article is to evaluate the biostimulatory effects and the levels of neocollagenesis of poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and hyaluronic acid (HA). A concise summary of the evidence is provided to assist clinicians in making informed decisions when deciding between the different types of widely available fillers.