Cosmetic Fields Research Articles

Development and Efficacy Evaluation of Innovative Cosmetic Formulations with Caryocar brasiliense Fruit Pulp Oil Encapsulated in Freeze-Dried Liposomes

Encapsulation and drying technologies allow the engineering of innovative raw materials from plant biodiversity, with potential applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. Lipid-based nanoencapsulation stands out for its efficiency, ease of production, and versatility in encapsulating substances, whether hydrophilic or lipophilic. This work aimed at encapsulating pequi oil in liposomes and freeze-dried liposomes to enhance its stability and functional benefits, such as skin hydration and anti-aging effects, for use in innovative cosmetic formulations. Pequi oil—extracted from the Caryocar brasiliense fruit pulp, a plant species from Brazilian plant biodiversity—is rich in secondary metabolites and fatty acids. Liposomes and dried liposomes offer controlled production processes and seamless integration into cosmetic formulations. The physicochemical analysis of the developed liposomes confirmed that the formulations are homogeneous and electrokinetically stable, as evidenced by consistent particle size distribution and zeta potential values, respectively. The gel-type formulations loaded with the dried liposomes exhibit enhanced skin hydration, improved barrier function, and refined microrelief, indicating improvements in skin conditions. These results highlight the potential of dried liposomes containing pequi oil for the development of innovative cosmeceutical products. This research contributes to the valorization of Brazilian biodiversity by presenting an innovative approach to leveraging the dermatological benefits of pequi oil in cosmetic applications.

Ecotoxicological evaluation of chitosan biopolymer films particles in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio): A comparative study with polystyrene microplastics

To mitigate the environmental impact of microplastics (MPs), the scientific community has innovated sustainable and biodegradable polymers as viable alternatives to traditional plastics. Chitosan, the deacetylated form of chitin, stands as one of the most thoroughly investigated biopolymers and has garnered significant interest due to its versatile applications in both medical and cosmetic fields. Nevertheless, there is still a knowledge gap regarding the impact that chitosan biopolymer films (CBPF) may generate in aquatic organisms. In light of the foregoing, this study aimed to assess and compare the potential effects of CBPF on the gastrointestinal tract, gills, brain, and liver of Danio rerio against those induced by MPs. The findings revealed that both CBPF and MPs induced changes in the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers across all organs. However, it is essential to note that our star plots illustrate a tendency for CBPF to activate antioxidant enzymes and for MPs to produce oxidative damage. Regarding gene expression, our findings indicate that MPs led to an up-regulation in the expression of genes associated with apoptotic response (p53, casp3, cas9, bax, and bcl2) in all fish organs. Meanwhile, CBPF produced the same effect in genes related to antioxidant response (nrf1 and nrf2). Overall, our histological observations substantiated these effects, revealing the presence of plastic particles and tissue alterations in the gills and gastrointestinal tract of fish subjected to MPs. From these results, it can be concluded that CBPF does not represent a risk to fish after long exposure.

Bentonite in Korea: A Resource and Research Focus for Biomedical and Cosmetic Industries.

This study provides an in-depth review of bentonite, focusing on its applications in Korea's biomedical and cosmetic sectors. It delves into bentonite's chemical properties, which make it a valuable resource in various industries, particularly in the health and beauty industries. We discuss bentonite's antimicrobial properties, showcasing its effectiveness against a wide range of pathogens and its potential as a biomedicine adjuvant to boost immune responses. Despite its benefits, the review also addresses the need for caution due to its possible side effects when used in human therapy. In the cosmetics industry, bentonite is prized for its ability to absorb impurities, making it a popular ingredient in products from leading brands. The review highlights the ongoing research and development efforts aiming to further explore bentonite's capabilities and applications, underlining the material's significant contribution to advancing Korea's innovation in the biomedical and cosmetic fields. This review suggests that with more research, bentonite's full potential can be unlocked, offering new opportunities for these industries.

Continuous Secretion of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Based on Escherichia coli Biofilm

Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) holds significant importance in the fields of medicine and cosmetics. Therefore, it becomes imperative to develop a highly efficient fermentation system for hEGF production. In this study, a stable hEGF-secreting expression strain was created by integrating the hEGF gene into the genome of Escherichia coli (E. coli) BL21, and an immobilized fermentation system was developed based on biofilm to facilitate continuous hEGF production. After optimization of fermentation conditions and gene dosage, the production of hEGF was increased from 13.9 mg/L to 52.4 mg/L in free-cell fermentation. Moreover, genetic modifications targeting dgcC, csgD, bcsA, and bcsB proved to enhance biofilm formation. When the bcsB was overexpressed in BL21-hEGF-C5, the biofilm-forming ability was enhanced by 91.1% and the production of hEGF was increased by 28% in biofilm-immobilized continuous fermentation. In conclusion, this study successfully confirms the feasibility of continuous hEGF production through the biofilm system of E. coli, providing valuable insights for the development of other proteins in the field of continuous biomanufacturing.

Effects of natural waste on in vitro oxidative DNA damage

In this study, the effects of natural waste products such as extracts from C. coggygria leaves and Punica granatum L. peels were investigated against oxidative DNA damage induced by Fenton reaction. 8-OH-2’dG as a general marker of DNA damage on thymus DNA, and the bioactive compounds of extracts were measured by LC-MS/MS. Our results had shown that ethanol extracts of C. coggygria leaf and Punica granatum L. peel had a protective effect on oxidative damaged DNA. It was determined that the bioactive compounds of C. coggygria leaves (gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, myricetin, syringic acid and ethyl gallate as a major compounds) and Punica granatum L. peel (ellagic acid, abscisic acid, ethyl gallate, phlorizin, gallic acid, myricetin as major compounds) may have an important role in the protective effect against oxidative DNA damage. Therefore, Cotinus coggygria leaves and Punica granatum L. peel may have potential use in medicine or cosmetic fields.

Construction and Properties of O/W Liquid Crystal Nanoemulsion.

Liquid crystal emulsion is a new type of emulsion, in which the emulsifier molecules are located at the oil/water (O/W) interface and form a long-range ordered and short-range disordered lamellar liquid crystal. The lamellar liquid crystal formed by the emulsifier is similar to the skin stratum corneum lipid structure, which enables it to have a broad application prospect in the fields of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, etc. In this work, a liquid crystal nanoemulsion was obtained by passing a liquid crystal emulsion stabilized by hydrogenated lecithin and phytosterol combination through a microfluidizer. The microstructure of the prepared liquid crystal nanoemulsion was investigated experimentally by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and small-angle X-ray scattering. The results have shown that the nanoemulsion inherited the liquid crystal emulsion property, namely, the long-range ordered and short-range disordered lamellar structure still existed at the oil/water interface even though they underwent extrusion, friction, and acceleration. At the same time, the underlying mechanisms of the existence of lamellar liquid crystal between the oil phase and the water phase for the nanoemulsion were explored theoretically by molecular dynamics simulations. The simulation results elucidated that the hydrogenated lecithin and phytosterol combination improved the flexibility of the bilayer structure composed of emulsifiers. The bilayers were the basic structure units of lamellar liquid crystals, and thus, the improved flexibility of bilayers provided insurance for the existence of lamellar liquid crystals with larger curvature around the oil droplets. In addition, the applicable properties of liquid crystal nanoemulsion were studied, and the results have shown that the liquid crystal nanoemulsion presented better slow-release and moisturizing properties than traditional nanoemulsions due to the existence of multilayers between oil and water phases. This work not only provides necessary information for the development and effective application of liquid crystal emulsions but also is helpful for in-depth understanding the inner properties of lamellar liquid crystal at molecular level.

Phytochemical Characterization, Antioxidant, and Anti-Proliferative Activities of Wild and Cultivated Nigella damascena Species Collected in Sicily (Italy).

The use of Nigella damascena seeds in the culinary field or as aerial parts infusions in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields is widely reported. The biological activity of this plant, as demonstrated over the years, is closely related to its phytochemical content. This investigation focused on the comparative study of the same plants of N. damascena, one totally wild (WND), while the other two, one with white flowers (CWND) and the other with blue flowers (CBND), were subject to cultivation, irrigation, and manual weeding. Using the potential of 1D and 2D-NMR spectroscopy, coupled with MS/MS spectrometric studies, the three methanolic extracts of N. damascena were investigated. Chemical studies have highlighted the presence of triterpene saponin compounds and various glycosylated flavonoids. Finally, the in vitro antiproliferative and antioxidant activities of the three individual extracts were evaluated. The antiproliferative activity performed on U-937, HL-60, and MCF-7 tumor cell lines highlighted a greater anticancer effect of the CBND and CWND extracts compared to the data obtained using WND. The antioxidant activity, however, performed to quantify ROS generation is comparable among the extracts used.

Structural and physical basis for the elasticity of elastin.

Elastin function is to endow vertebrate tissues with elasticity so that they can adapt to local mechanical constraints. The hydrophobicity and insolubility of the mature elastin polymer have hampered studies of its molecular organisation and structure-elasticity relationships. Nevertheless, a growing number of studies from a broad range of disciplines have provided invaluable insights, and several structural models of elastin have been proposed. However, many questions remain regarding how the primary sequence of elastin (and the soluble precursor tropoelastin) governs the molecular structure, its organisation into a polymeric network, and the mechanical properties of the resulting material. The elasticity of elastin is known to be largely entropic in origin, a property that is understood to arise from both its disordered molecular structure and its hydrophobic character. Despite a high degree of hydrophobicity, elastin does not form compact, water-excluding domains and remains highly disordered. However, elastin contains both stable and labile secondary structure elements. Current models of elastin structure and function are drawn from data collected on tropoelastin and on elastin-like peptides (ELPs) but at the tissue level, elasticity is only achieved after polymerisation of the mature elastin. In tissues, the reticulation of tropoelastin chains in water defines the polymer elastin that bears elasticity. Similarly, ELPs require polymerisation to become elastic. There is considerable interest in elastin especially in the biomaterials and cosmetic fields where ELPs are widely used. This review aims to provide an up-to-date survey of/perspective on current knowledge about the interplay between elastin structure, solvation, and entropic elasticity.

In situ NADES microwave‐mediated extraction of bioactive compounds from Beta vulgaris L. var. rubra waste

SummaryThe research focused on the recovery of bioactive compounds from beetroot waste (fresh stalks) using an innovative and microwave‐mediated (mw) procedure that could allow the simultaneous eutectic solvent preparation and matrix extraction (in situ mw NADES extraction), as a simplification of more conventional NADES (natural deep eutectic solvents) extractions. The main goal was to propose a fast and simple “one‐pot” extractive approach to obtain and screen non‐toxic, bioactive ready‐to‐use ingredients, potentially useful in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields, meanwhile converting beetroot residues, from worn‐out plant matrices to recycled sources with significant added values. With this purpose, several eutectic mixtures of natural food‐grade hydrogen bond donors (choline chloride or betaine) and hydrogen bond acceptors (fructose, urea, citric acid, and glycerol) were selected and investigated (in opportune ratios) under microwave activation, considering time, temperature, and solvent‐to‐matrix ratio as the influencing variables and the total phenols content recovery as the response. By the in situ NADES microwave method developed, the best results were obtained within 5 min at 70 °C with recoveries of around 0.5 mg of polyphenols for gram of fresh stalks, assessed by the Folin–Ciocalteu test. The suitability of the NADES‐based extractives, as radical scavenging agents, was evaluated using the DPPH assay, which highlighted their good antioxidant activity; moreover, monitoring the betacyanin content by means of UV–vis spectrophotometric analyses, it was evident that NADES provide a relevant stability to the new complexes (up to 3 months) compared to water (24 h). The new in situ process proposed could be also useful for preliminary screenings of different organic matrices, simplifying workup, streamlining the procedures, and reducing costs.

미용인의 NCS화장품 능력단위인지와 현장활용성 및 화장품학 교과만족도 관계 연구

Objectives The purspose of this study is to analyze the effect of cosmetics National Competency Standards recognition on cosmetics subject necessity and subject satisfaction through field usability.
 Methods A survey was conducted on 304 cosmetologists who had experience in cosmetic course. To verify the research hypothesis, the structural equation model was establised and analyzed using AMOS, and bootstrapping was used to verify the mediation effect. The significance of the mediation effect was verified again through the Sobel Test.
 Results Recognition of cosmetics NCS had a positive (+) effect on field usability. Field usability had a positive (+) significant effect on the cosmetics subject necessity and had a positive (+) effect on cosmetics subject satisfaction. It was confirmed that the recognition of cosmetics NCS did not have a direct effect on the cosmetics subject necessity, and only the indirect path was significant, confirming that field usability had a complete mediation effect. In the relationship between whether it is an cosmetics NCS recognition, field usability, and cosmetics sbject satisfaction, the indirect path generates a standardized path coefficient that greatly exceeds 1.0, and the direct path was an inconsistent mediation effect with opposite sign values, confirming that the direct path had a spurious effect. This means that in the relationship between cosmetics NCS recognition and cosmetics subject satisfaction, field usability has a complete mediation effect.
 Conclusions Cosmetics NCS recognition does not have a direct effect on the necessity of cosmetics subject and satisfaction of cosmetics subject, but field usability plays a complete mediation role and has an effect. This can be said to be a result that corresponds to the characteristics of the practical-oriented beauty occupation. The cosmetics NCS should be reorganized according to the beauty occupations so that cosmetics can be used more safely and appropriately in the field of beauty work by major that utilizes cosmetics.

In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties of an active fucoidan fraction from Sargassum fusiforme and a fraction-based hydrogel

In a previous study, we separated an active fucoidan (JHCF4) from acid-processed Sargassum fusiforme, then analyzed and confirmed its structure. In the present study, we investigated the potential anti-inflammatory properties of JHCF4 and a JHCF4-based hydrogel in vitro and in vivo. JHCF4 reliably inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages, with an IC50 of 22.35 μg/ml. Furthermore, JHCF4 attenuated the secretion of prostaglandin E2, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6, indicating that JHCF4 regulates inflammatory reactions. In addition, JHCF4 downregulated iNOS and COX-2 and inhibited the activation of the MAPK pathway. According to further in vivo analyses, JHCF4 significantly reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NO production, and cell death in an LPS-induced zebrafish model, suggesting that JHCF4 exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, a JHCF4-based hydrogel was developed, and its properties were evaluated. The hydrogel significantly decreased inflammatory and nociceptive responses in carrageenan (carr)-induced mouse paws by reducing the increase in paw thickness and decreasing neutrophil infiltration in the basal and subcutaneous layers of the toe epidermis. These results indicate that JHCF4 exhibits potential anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo and that JHCF4-based hydrogels have application prospects in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields.

Gellan Gum as a Unique Microbial Polysaccharide: Its Characteristics, Synthesis, and Current Application Trends.

Gellan gum (GG) is a linear, negatively charged exopolysaccharide that is biodegradable and non-toxic. When metallic ions are present, a hard and transparent gel is produced, which remains stable at a low pH. It exhibits high water solubility, can be easily bio-fabricated, demonstrates excellent film/hydrogel formation, is biodegradable, and shows biocompatibility. These characteristics render GG a suitable option for use in food, biomedical, and cosmetic fields. Thus, this review paper offers a concise summary of microbial polysaccharides. Moreover, an in-depth investigation of trends in different facets of GG, such as biosynthesis, chemical composition, and physical and chemical properties, is emphasized. In addition, this paper highlights the process of extracting and purifying GG. Furthermore, an in-depth discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of GG concerning other polysaccharides is presented. Moreover, the utilization of GG across different industries, such as food, medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, etc., is thoroughly examined and will greatly benefit individuals involved in this field who are seeking fresh opportunities for innovative projects in the future.

Protein-based microneedles for biomedical applications: A systematic review.

Microneedles are minimally-invasive devices with the unique capability of bypassing physiological barriers. Hence, they are widely used for different applications from drug/vaccine delivery to diagnosis and cosmetic fields. Recently, natural biopolymers (particularly carbohydrates and proteins) have garnered attention as safe and biocompatible materials with tailorable features for microneedle construction. Several review articles have dealt with carbohydrate-based microneedles. This review aims to highlight the less-noticed role of proteins through a systematic search strategy based on the PRISMA guideline from international databases of PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Original English articles with the keyword "microneedle(s)" in their titles along with at least one of the keywords "biopolymers, silk, gelatin, collagen, zein, keratin, fish-scale, mussel, and suckerin" were collected and those in which the proteins undertook a structural role were screened. Then, we focused on the structures and applications of protein-based microneedles. Also, the unique features of some protein biopolymers that make them ideal for microneedle construction (e.g., excellent mechanical strength, self-adhesion, and self-assembly), as well as the challenges associated with them were reviewed. Altogether, the proteins identified so far seem not only promising for the fabrication of "better" microneedles in the future but also inspiring for designing biomimetic structural biopolymers with ideal characteristics.

Molecularly engineered lignin to polyphenol via organocatalysis as an active sunscreen ingredient

Phenolation is one of the effective strategies to synthesize lignin-based polyphenols, improve lignin's properties, and extend its value-added applications in biological, medicinal and cosmetic fields. Herein, by taking the structural feature advantage of lignin, an effective and green strategy was developed to molecularly engineer lignin into a robust lignin-3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)propionate ester (LPPE) derivative via a transesterification reaction between 3,4-dihydrocoumarin (DHC) and the aliphatic hydroxyls in lignin under organocatalysis. The strategy is optimized and the novel derivative was systematically characterized by 1H, 13C and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The findings indicated that the successful introduction of 3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)propionate groups using a OH groups/DHC/organic base molar ratio of 1꞉1꞉0.3 at 120 °C for 6 h increased the content of phenolic hydroxyl groups from 1.793 1 to 3.017 9 mmol/g, and the LPPE exhibited excellent ultraviolet-absorbing and antioxidant performance with up to 90 % free radical scavenging activity within 20 min using 5 mg/mL of LPPE. In addition, good biocompatibility and a high Sun protection factor (SPF) value of 40.9 were achieved at 5 % (w) dosage of LPPE in the cream, indicating its significant application potential in sunscreen.

Carvacrol: Innovative Synthesis Pathways and Overview of its Patented Applications

Aim:: This research concerns the patentability of carvacrol; it could be helpful for researchers to easily identify any innovation in the biotechnological application of this monoterpene as well as other similar compounds. Background:: Like thyme or oregano, several plants in the Lamiaceae family produce carvacrol. It is one of the secondary metabolites with several biological activities, including the improvement in plants’ resistance and their protection. Carvacrol has many chemical properties, such as antioxidant and anti-microbial, which have made it interesting for multiple biotechnological applications in the fields of food, feed, pharmacology, and cosmetology. Objective:: We have made an attempt to demonstrate the value of carvacrol, first by studying quantitative data from patent documents, and then, through some relevant patents, we have tried to highlight the various fields of innovation related to the properties of carvacrol. Method:: For the study, we have collected and sorted patent documents (i.e., patent applications and granted patents) from specialized patent databases, using “carvacrol” and some of its synonyms as keywords. The selected documents have included these keywords in their titles, abstracts, or claims. Then, thanks to patent analysis, we have tried to provide an overview of the useful properties of organic compounds. Result:: We have shown that about 90% of the patent documents studied have been published in the 2000s. The number of publications, which is constantly increasing, demonstrates the growing interest in carvacrol. Although the applications of carvacrol are varied, the data on the IPC classification show that most published innovations are concerned with formulations in the fields of health, food, and feed. The study of the most relevant patents has allowed us to highlight some developments in the extraction and synthesis of carvacrol and some examples of patents that illustrate the wide possibilities offered by the exploitation of carvacrol. Thus, we have discussed its use in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, food, and agricultural fields. Conclusion:: Carvacrol is a natural compound with beneficial properties. Several applications using this monoterpene have already been patented in different fields. However, the evolution of patentability has grown this past year and revealed the potential of carvacrol in biotechnology.

Snail extract for skin: A review of uses, projections, and limitations.

Snail mucin is becoming increasingly popular for its wide range of ingredients and potential benefits. Snail extract's widespread appearance in cosmetic formulations encourages an investigation into the medical and cosmetic benefits. This study aims to explore current literature on the variety of snail mucin applications. Specifically, we present a review of the uses, global market estimates and projects, and limitations to snail mucin. A literature search was conducted on PubMed reviewing snail mucin and their application in medical and dermatologic fields examining their uses. Economic reports were also investigated for Global Market estimates. The therapeutic use of snail mucin in medical fields has been studied as antimicrobial agents, drug delivery vehicles, antitumor agents, wound healing agents, and biomaterial coatings among others. Additionally, the use in cosmetic fields includes antiaging, hydrating, anti-acne, scarring, and hyperpigmentation treatments. It is important to highlight that most studies conducted were preclinical or small clinical studies, stressing the need for additional large-scale clinical trials to support these claims. Investigations into the global market found estimates ranging from $457 million to $1.2 billion with upward projections in the upcoming decade. Limitations include ethical habitats for collection, allergy investigation, and missing clinical studies. The findings presented here emphasize the expanding uses of snail mucin and its ingredients alongside a growing market cosmetic industry should consider. We also emphasize the need for appropriate clinical trials into the stated benefits of snail mucin to ensure consumer safety and ethical extraction of mucin.

Spatiotemporal Regulation and Transport Engineering for Sustainable Production of Geraniol in Candida glycerinogenes.

Geraniol is an attractive natural monoterpene with significant industrial and commercial value in the fields of pharmaceuticals, condiments, cosmetics, and bioenergy. The biosynthesis of monoterpenes suffers from the availability of key intermediates and enzyme-to-substrate accessibility. Here, we addressed these challenges in Candida glycerinogenes by a plasma membrane-anchoring strategy and achieved sustainable biosynthesis of geraniol using bagasse hydrolysate as substrate. On this basis, a remarkable 2.4-fold improvement in geraniol titer was achieved by combining spatial and temporal modulation strategies. In addition, enhanced geraniol transport and modulation of membrane lipid-associated metabolism effectively promoted the exocytosis of toxic monoterpenes, significantly improved the resistance of the engineered strain to monoterpenes and improved the growth of the strains, resulting in geraniol yield up to 1207.4 mg L-1 at shake flask level. Finally, 1835.2 mg L-1 geraniol was obtained in a 5 L bioreactor using undetoxified bagasse hydrolysate. Overall, our study has provided valuable insights into the plasma membrane engineering of C. glycerinogenes for the sustainable and green production of valuable compounds.

Development of a Semi-Dry Method for Measuring Drug Permeation into Skin Using an Electric Facial Care Device and Iontophoresis

Introduction: Percutaneous drug delivery systems are attractive not only as a therapeutic strategy but also for cosmetic treatment. Iontophoresis is a well-recognized method for promoting transdermal absorption of ionized compounds. Franz cells are generally used to estimate drug permeation of skin by iontophoresis. However, methods using Franz cells are less versatile; for instance, the method is unsuited for use with a portable electric facial care device having a working probe of a certain size and weight. In this study, we constructed a semi-dry apparatus for use with an electric facial care device. Methods: The apparatus has a multilayer structure consisting of mouse skin and 3 filter papers, modeled after the Franz cell. The skin permeation of the drug edaravone (3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one) was then measured using this apparatus. Results: Edaravone permeation depended on working time, drug concentration, and ionization ratio of edaravone when iontophoresis was carried out with an electric facial care device. Furthermore, glycyrrhizic acid, α-tocopheryl phosphate, retinoic acid, and ascorbyl palmitate, which are recognized as functional cosmetic materials, also permeated the skin by applying iontophoresis with the device. Conclusion: These results suggest that the developed measuring apparatus is applicable for use with a portable electric facial care device and that iontophoresis using a portable electric facial care device is potentially useful in the cosmetic field.

Review on Nanotechnology in Cosmetics and Dermatology

Nanotechnology is a cutting-edge technology that involves the manipulation of atoms and molecules on a microscopic scale. The cosmetic industry was the first to embrace this technology in their product development, and it has since become one of the most widely-used and capable technologies of the 21st century. It is a safe and effective method for creating innovative drug delivery systems. Nanomaterials, which contain active substances, carriers, and aids, are used in the development of haircare, oral care, and dermatological products that aim to enhance the user’s appearance. The cosmetic industry uses various types of nanomaterials, such as nanosomes, fullerenes, liposomes, ectosomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles. Due to the superior qualities of atoms at the nanoscale level, nanotechnology is increasingly being utilized in the fields of cosmetics and dermatology. Overall, nanotechnology is an excellent option for improving the quality of cosmetic products. Its effectiveness and safety have been proven, making it an indispensable tool in modern product development.

(050) Safety and Efficacy of Hyaluronic Acid Injections Using the UroFill™ Technique for Penile Girth Enhancement

Abstract Introduction Penile girth enhancement (PGE) has gained significant popularity and is in high demand among individuals seeking to improve their sexual experiences and self-confidence. Perception of penile length and girth are integral components of the male psyche. Unfortunately, current treatment options for motivated patients looking to enhance penile girth fall short of patient and clinical expectations. While the safety of penile augmentation methods has been a subject of debate, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers have demonstrated proven efficacy and safety, offering potential solutions for those interested in PGE. Advancements in the field of penile cosmetics with HA has led to the development of the UroFill™ patented technique for PGE. Objective To assess the safety and efficacy of injecting HA using the UroFill™ technique for PGE. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of men undergoing penile girth enhancement with FDA-approved HA fillers between October 2021 and March 2023. Patients completed a series of validated questionnaires including the COPS-P, IIEF, and BAPS. Peri- and post-procedure adverse events were closely monitored. Physician follow-up appointments and patient questionnaires were utilized to identify and document these events. The determination of unsatisfactory cosmetic outcomes and the need for revision was made by the treating physician in consultation with the patient. The UroFill™ standardized technique was employed for all injections. Results A total of 300 men (mean age: 37, range 21-80) received treatment using the UroFill™ standardized technique. 4,879 injections were performed over this time. Mean injection volume was 16.5 cc (range: 4-78cc) of HA once treatment had been completed. The study observed an average of 3.85 injection sessions (range: 1-44 sessions) and 5.25 post-injection modeling sessions (range 0-55) per patient. After receiving HA dermal fillers, patients experienced local injection site reactions such as bruising, tenderness, swelling, and erythema. These events were generally mild in intensity, and no patient reported bruising lasting longer than 7 days. None of the patients in this cohort required removal of filler. Adverse reactions were limited to 8 cases of localized skin infections which were successfully treated with conservative antibiotic therapy. All localized skin infections were a result of premature sexual intercourse or shaving in the area following injection. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction with 272/300 (91%) reporting “completely satisfied” or “mostly satisfied”. Mean filler retention was 90% after 12 months. Conclusions This study provides evidence that the UroFill™ standardized technique for penile girth enhancement using HA fillers is both safe and efficacious. With no instances of filler removal and successful management of adverse reactions, the safety profile of HA fillers is further supported. These findings reinforce HA’s potential for sustainable penile enhancement. It is essential these procedures be performed in the described fashion by qualified urological professionals. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Boston Scientific, UroFill.