Wrinkle Depth Research Articles

Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Grape Seed Extract-Loaded Hyalurosomes on Skin Wellness

Grape seeds are a rich source of bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. The aim of this study was to extract phytochemicals from the Lebanese grape variety “Obeidi” and incorporate them into liposomes and hyalurosomes in order to select the most effective formulation for improving skin properties and protecting against oxidative damage. Grape seeds were extracted by a sustainable ethanol-water method, yielding a total phenolic content (TPC) of 376 ± 16 mg/g (gallic acid equivalents) and an antioxidant activity of 0.58 ± 0.04 µg/mL (trolox equivalents). HPLC analysis identified catechins (4.51 mg/g), gallic acid (3.2 mg/g) and epicatechins (0.88 mg/g) as the dominant phenolics. The extract was encapsulated in liposomes and hyalurosomes with a mean diameter of 148–159 nm, polydispersity index < 0.3, and zeta potentials of −47 to −44 mV, and remained stable for three months at 4 °C. In vitro studies showed that hyalurosomes significantly increased keratinocyte viability by up to 144% and provided better protection against oxidative stress compared to liposomes. A 12-week clinical study involving 40 volunteers was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of extract-loaded hyalurosomes as an “anti-aging serum” by assessing various skin parameters. This treatment resulted in improved skin hydration, a reduction in wrinkle depth, and a slight decrease in melanin and erythema levels as demonstrated by imaging. These results are promising for cosmeceutical applications using grape seed extract loaded in hyalurosomes.

Randomized study of efficacy and safety of combined application of hyaluronic acid-based dermal implants, IPL technology and non-ablative laser fractional resurfacing for age-related changes correction

Application of multifunctional apparatuses and combined skin quality improvement protocols is becoming increasingly popular. Objective. To determine the efficacy and safety of combined application of hyaluronic acid-based dermal implants, narrow-band pulsed light technology and non-ablative fractional photothermolysis. Material and methods. The study involved 25 healthy volunteers aged 35—65 years. Randomization method was used to select 5 groups of 5 participants. In group I, a comprehensive correction was performed (skin preparation with biorevitalizants, 3 hardware procedures using phototherapy, laser non-ablative remodeling and volumetric modeling with hyaluronic acid-based drugs), in group II — 3 hardware procedures with the use of phototherapy and laser non-ablative remodeling, in group III — comprehensive correction (skin preparation by biorevitalizants, 3 hardware procedures using phototherapy and laser non-ablative remodeling), in group IV — 3 hardware procedures with the application of phototherapy, in group V — only volumetric correction. Results. Improvement of skin color and smoothing of small wrinkles have been observed in all groups, but the most significant reduction of erythema has been noted in groups I and III. Thus, the skin redness has reduced after the biorevitalization procedure before the start of the hardware correction. The depth of wrinkles and folds has expectedly decreased in groups I and V, as well as to a lesser extent in group III. No significant change in skin color has been demonstrated in patients of group V. Patients in all groups have reported improvement on the grading scales as well as high satisfaction level. Conclusion. The study confirms the safety and efficacy of combining biorevitalizants, hardware technologies and hyaluronic acid-based fillers in the comprehensive protocols for rejuvenation and improvement of skin quality. The analysis of the obtained results shows a more pronounced reduction in pigmentation, erythema and wrinkles in patients who underwent complex correction.

Skin Antiaging and Skin Health Benefits of Probiotic Intake Combined with Topical Ectoin and Sodium Hyaluronate: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Well-aging strategies include the use of both oral and topic products to nourish the skin from the inside out. A clinical–instrumental study was conducted on 96 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate facial aging to demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum PBS067, Lactobacillus reuteri PBS072, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH020) intake combined with topical ectoin and sodium hyaluronate. The skin sebum content, hydration and moisturization, profilometry (wrinkle depth and skin smoothness), TEWL, elasticity (R0 and R2 parameters), radiance, and pores (size and impurities) were measured after 4 and 8 weeks of product use. These parameters were also integrated through a self-assessment questionnaire to align the measured and the perceived efficacy. One hour after serum application, the wrinkle depth was reduced by 9.2%, while skin hydration increased by 16.6% and skin radiance by 19.1% following cream application. After 4 and 8 weeks of use, both the oral and topical products were shown to respect the skin’s hydrolipid film, effectively improve skin parameters associated with aging, and detoxify the skin from impurities. The mechanism behind these improvements was linked to an enhancement of the skin microbiome. Our findings clearly demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic intake combined with topical ectoin and sodium hyaluronate in enhancing skin health and mitigating the signs of skin aging.

Targeting Aging Skin with GABALAGEN®: A Synergistic Marine Nutricosmetic Ingredient Validated Through Human Randomized Trials

This study introduces GABALAGEN® (GBL), a marine-derived ingredient combining low-molecular-weight fish collagen and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) produced via lactobacillus fermentation. GBL contains approximately 10% GABA, making up 39% of its free amino acid profile. A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 100 adults (aged 35–60) assessed its effects on aging skin. Participants consumed 1500 mg/day of GBL in jelly form, with 94% completing the study. By Week 12, the GBL group showed a 20% increase in skin hydration and a 15% reduction in wrinkle depth. Improvements in skin density and elasticity were also observed, with no adverse effects reported. In vitro tests demonstrated strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, including enhanced superoxide dismutase activity and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in UVB-irradiated keratinocytes. GBL exemplifies sustainable innovation by upcycling fishery byproducts into high-value materials while addressing stability issues common to seafood-derived products. The fermentation process ensures safety and enhances GABA’s antioxidant activity and bioavailability. This scalable method aligns with circular economic principles and global sustainability goals, extending GBL’s potential to other functional materials which were proved their safety. GBL represents a breakthrough in nutricosmetics, combining efficacy, environmental sustainability, and industrial innovation.

Efficacy and safety of ultra-pulsed CO2 fractional laser (UP) for the treatment of periorbital static wrinkles.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultra-pulsed CO2 fractional laser (UP) in the treatment of periorbital static wrinkles in Asians, and to follow up on its long-term efficacy. This was a prospective, self-controlled study conducted at the Dermatological Cosmetic Center of Xijing Hospital from June 2021 to June 2022. A total of 30 Asian patients aged 30-65 years with periorbital static wrinkles were enrolled (both genders, signed informed consent, and had not received treatment in the previous 6 months. Patients were excluded if they were pregnant or lactating, had facial dermatitis, or had received neuromodulator injections in the treatment area recently). All patients underwent one session of ultra-pulsed CO2 fractional laser treatment. Before treatment, the periorbital area was cleaned and topical anesthesia with compound lidocaine ointment (Beijing Ziguang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., lidocaine concentration of 5%, containing prilocaine and lidocaine, 25mg of each per gram, synergistically enhancing the anesthetic effect with minimal skin irritation) was applied for 1h. After anesthesia, the treatment area was disinfected, and a metal heat-insulating intraocular shield was placed to protect the cornea. The periorbital area (energy 10 mj, density 10%), forehead, and nasal root (energy 17.5 mj, density 5%) were treated with different energy and density settings. Post-treatment, ice compresses were applied for 20-30min, and strict sun protection was advised. Photographs were taken before treatment, immediately after treatment, and at 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months post-treatment to assess efficacy. Skin wrinkle assessment was performed using Think View skin analysis. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) during treatment. Telephone follow-ups were conducted on days 1, 3, and 5 post-treatment to record adverse reactions. The Antera3D skin image analysis system was used to evaluate overall periorbital wrinkle scores, average wrinkle depth, average wrinkle width, and maximum wrinkle depth. All 30 patients tolerated the intraoperative pain, with a VAS pain score of 5.67 ± 1.15. 93% of the subjects were satisfied with the treatment outcomes. The Fitzpatrick wrinkle grading scores decreased after treatment compared to before treatment in all subjects. 3D skin analysis revealed a reduction in overall wrinkle scores post-treatment, with a significant decrease in average wrinkle depth at 3 months post-treatment (p < 0.001). Maximum wrinkle depth improved at 1 month post-treatment (p < 0.05) and decreased significantly at 2 and 3 months post-treatment (p < 0.001). No significant adverse reactions were observed post-treatment.Ultra-pulsed CO2 fractional laser (UP) is effective in improving periorbital static wrinkles in Asians with high safety and tolerability.

Transdermal Delivery of Baicalin Based on Bio-Vesicles and Its Efficacy in Antiaging of the Skin.

To develop a stable and efficient delivery system for baicalin, a flavonoid with potential antioxidant and antiaging properties, to overcome its limitations in solubility, stability, and skin permeability. Baicalin was encapsulated using ATP synthase molecular motor technology into bio-vesicles derived from yeast/bacillus cell membranes, forming "motor baicalin" (MB). The liposome baicalin (LB), baicalin raw material (BRM), and bio-vesicles were used for comparison. The stability, transdermal penetration, and antioxidant activity of MB, LB, BRM, and bio-vesicles were evaluated through invitro and invivo tests. MB formed a stable core-shell structure, significantly enhancing the water solubility and long-term stability of baicalin. The tests confirmed superior transdermal penetration and antioxidant activity of MB, evidenced by increased expression of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px enzymes and improved cell proliferation and migration. Clinical trials demonstrated significant reductions in wrinkle depth and improvements in skin elasticity. This study presents a promising approach to improving the stability and transdermal delivery of baicalin. MB showcases potent antioxidant and antiaging properties, making it a valuable component in skincare products.

Lipidomic and Instrumental Evaluation of a Melatonin-Based In & Out Strategy Versus Topical Treatment in Skin Aging: A Randomized Prospective Trial.

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel "In & Out" strategy, combining topical and oral melatonin supplementation, in managing skin aging compared to topical treatment alone. A randomized, prospective study was conducted on 39 healthy females aged 55-69 years. Participants were divided into two groups: one received both the topical formula and oral melatonin supplementation (Group A), while the other received a topical melatonin-based formula (Group B). Clinical evaluations included lipidomic analysis, skin moisturization, and wrinkle depth analysis at baseline and after 84 days. The addition of oral melatonin supplementation to the topical regimen led to improvements in the skin's lipid profile and moisturization levels. These findings suggest that combining topical and oral melatonin may provide a more comprehensive approach to managing skin aging by addressing both local and systemic factors. Background/Objectives: With age, the endogenous antioxidant capacity of the skin decreases, including melatonin (Mel) synthesis. Skin aging is also associated with alterations in epidermal lipids, particularly a reduction in triglycerides and ceramides, which are essential for maintaining skin structure and hydration. The administration of exogenous melatonin could, therefore, be an effective anti-aging strategy. While some data suggest that melatonin may positively influence the lipid profile, specific data on its effects on skin aging are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-aging effects of an "In & Out" regimen consisting of a Mel-based cream and dietary supplement in comparison with topical treatment alone, focusing on clinical and lipidomic changes involved in skin homeostasis. Results: A statistically significant variation was observed in both groups compared to baseline (T0) in terms of moisturization (+23.6% in Group A, +18.3% in Group B) and wrinkle depth (-18.5% in Group A, -9.4% in Group B, p < 0.05). Both groups showed improvements in the lipid content of the skin, which typically decreases with age. The "In & Out" strategy resulted in a statistically significant increase in triacylglycerols and ceramides, key lipids that exhibit water-holding properties. Conclusions: The "In & Out" melatonin-based regimen demonstrated greater efficacy in clinical improvement and positive lipid profile modifications compared to topical treatment alone, highlighting its potential as a comprehensive anti-aging strategy.

Innovative Honey-Based Product and Its Beneficial Effects Measured by Modern Biophysical and Imaging Skin Techniques.

Honey is widely recognized for its potential benefits in skincare, yet its incorporation into formulations is challenging due to its stickiness. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of hand creams with varying concentrations of multifloral honey (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% w/w) on skin parameters and to assess their application characteristics. A total of 24 volunteers were divided into two groups, each receiving a blinded pair of creams (0%/10% or 5%/15% honey) to apply on their left and right hands. Instrumental methods (Corneometer®, Tewameter®, Cutometer®, Visioscan®, and Visioline®) were used to measure skin parameters at the baseline, 15 min after the first application, and after 4 weeks of regular use. Sensory characteristics were evaluated through participant questionnaires. After 4 weeks, honey-infused creams showed notable improvements in skin moisturization (up to 29.7%), smoothness (up to 21.3%), wrinkle area reduction (up to 21.4%), and mean wrinkle depth reduction (up to 11.7%). Among these, the increases in moisturization and reductions in wrinkle depth were statistically significant compared to the placebo. The sensory evaluations revealed no significant differences between formulations, highlighting the vehicle's effectiveness in minimizing the stickiness typically associated with honey. This study highlights the efficacy of honey-enriched hand creams in enhancing skin parameters over time while maintaining favorable sensory characteristics. These findings support the use of honey in dermatological formulations and provide insights into overcoming its formulation challenges.

TFC-1326 Compound Reduces Clinical Signs of Skin Aging. Evidence From InVitro Human Adipose and Skin Models and Pilot Clinical Trial.

Anti-freeze Glycoproteins (AFGPs) were described to preserve biological materials and protect them from different stresses. The effects of a synthetic anti-freeze glycoprotein-based compound, TFC-1326, on human skin quality and its biological actions were studied. The effects of various concentrations of TFC-1326 on the biology of human preadipocytes, differentiated in the proinflammatory microenvironment, and on human fibroblasts grown in coculture with human mature adipocytes or monocultured in stress conditions were investigated in, invitro studies. Additionally, the efficacy of a 1% TFC-1326 topical cream was evaluated in a clinical investigation on the skin biology and appearance of 20 women aged between 40 and 65 years throughout 84 days of application. The invitro studies revealed that TFC-1326 mitigated the deleterious effects of a proinflammatory cytokine cocktail produced by human macrophages, by restoring preadipocyte adipogenic capacity and by reducing their fibroinflammatory state. TFC-1326 also stimulated the proliferative capacity of dermal fibroblasts co-cultured with mature adipocytes as well as their production of hyaluronic acid and procollagen type I, while decreasing IL6 secretion and increasing fibroblast viability. Furthermore, daily 1% TFC-1326 topical cream application, measurably improved skin radiance and laxity, as well as skin density. Finally, significant reductions of the volume and depth of the crow's feet wrinkles were also observed. The compound TFC-1326 significantly improved the physiological appearance and cellular functions of aging skin.

Retinol-loaded deep eutectic solvent emulsion: Improved stability and therapeutic efficiency

Retinol-loaded deep eutectic solvent emulsion: Improved stability and therapeutic efficiency

Three-dimensional Stereoscopic Evaluation and Quantitative Gray Scale Assessment of the Nasolabial Fold and Its Application in Injection Therapy.

With the growing demand for aesthetic enhancements, particularly filler injections for nasolabial folds (NLFs), there is a need for more objective and quantitative assessment methods beyond the traditional subjective scales like the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS). This study introduces a novel evaluation method combining 3-dimensional (3D) imaging and grayscale analysis to objectively assess NLF severity and treatment outcomes. A total of 100 healthy participants (86 females, 14 males; mean age 41.85±11.53 years) were assessed using WSRS scores and quantitative 3D measurements. The results demonstrated a significant positive correlation between WSRS scores and gray values (r=0.985, P < 0.05). Significant differences in gray values and 3D linear measurements were observed across WSRS score groups, with high intra-rater reliability confirmed by intraclass correlation coefficients. In addition, 54 patients (mean age 42.9±8.9 y) with moderate to severe NLFs received hyaluronic acid injections. One month post-treatment, WSRS scores significantly decreased (from 3.74±0.45 to 1.63±0.59, P < 0.05), and significant improvements were observed in several 3D measurements. The average gray value also decreased significantly (P < 0.05), indicating a reduction in wrinkle depth. These findings were supported by representative photos showing patient satisfaction and no severe complications. This study validates the use of 3D imaging and grayscale analysis as reliable tools for objectively assessing NLF severity and monitoring treatment efficacy, potentially improving the precision and reliability of aesthetic evaluations in clinical practice.

Pilot Study: Single-depth Superficial Ultrasound with Subdermal Injections of Diluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite for Improving Lower Face Skin Quality.

The lower face can be challenging to treat. We assessed the effectiveness of combining single-depth superficial microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V, Ultherapy; Merz North America, Inc. Raleigh, N.C.) and subdermal injections of diluted calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA, Radiesse; Merz North America, Inc. Raleigh, N.C.) in a single session for improving skin quality in the lower face. This study enrolled women with moderate-to-severe fine lines and skin unevenness on the lower face who desired nonsurgical intervention. Single-depth MFU-V treatment (10 MHz/1.5 mm) was followed by subdermal injections of diluted (1:1) CaHA. Subjects were followed up for 24 weeks posttreatment. Objective skin quality assessments (Rv: wrinkle depth; R3z: skin unevenness) were performed using LifeViz Micro (QuantifiCare, Sophia Antipolis, France). Subjective assessments included the modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale visual analog scale, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, and global satisfaction scale. Twelve subjects completed the study. The mean Rv value, mean R3z value, and mean modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale visual analog scale score improved significantly from baseline to week 24 (mean differences: -0.0321 mm, -0.0684 mm, -1.1667; all P < 0.001). All subjects were rated by the investigators as having demonstrated improvement in their overall aesthetic appearance as early as week 4. All subjects were "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with their treatment from week 12 onwards. No unexpected adverse events were reported. Combination treatment with single-depth superficial MFU-V and diluted CaHA in a single session significantly improved lower facial skin quality, as assessed by both objective and subjective outcome measures.

SCAWA scales: A new digital tool for wrinkles clinical grading based on AI.

Clinical assessment of wrinkle depth is essential for efficacy evaluations of anti-ageing products. Standardized photographic scales, representative of different wrinkle depths are often used by experts to assign subjects reliable grades. These tools, based on real pictures, usually exist as hard copies (printed books or sheets) for invivo gradings. Our project aims at developing a methodology to create digital standardized computer-generated scales, allowing photograph and real-life gradings, and providing raters with greater comfort, accessibility, and flexibility in their construction, thanks to the artificial intelligence significative contribution. A completely new approach, based on machine learning, allows the creation of Standardized ColorFace® AI-based Wrinkle Assessment (SCAWA) scales. Instead of using real photographs, the scale images are computer-generated. A generative adversarial network (GAN) is trained to create realistic wrinkle samples that are finely controllable by exploring the GAN latent space. Finally, the scale images are selected among hundreds of artificial images depicting natural wrinkle appearances, such as the illustrated wrinkle evolution is well-detailed (small gaps between grades), morphologically stable, and mathematically linear according to a criterion of wrinkle conspicuous depth. The created 12-point scale for crow's feet wrinkle evaluation on ColorFace® pictures is proven to be realistic, linear, and robustly and accurately usable for photograph assessments. The scale coherence in terms of image ranking has been validated, as well as its reliability and acceptability in real conditions of use. Additionally, the wrinkle grades obtained by the SCAWA scale are well correlated (R = 0.94) with the ones obtained by the Skin Aging Atlas on the same pictures. The AI methodology and digital format brought also interesting side results, such as an enhanced harmonization between experts and a higher representativeness, that is, a decrease of out-of-range pictures. SCAWA scale makes the most of machine learning to provide an innovative digital tool to ease wrinkles in visual assessment of pictures, while optimizing linearity, homogeneity, and accuracy aspects. The experts' enthusiastic feedback about the scale format and quality is promising regarding the adaptation of the methodology to other signs and a larger distribution of this tool in the market of cosmetic product efficacy assessment.

Investigating the efficacy of Endolift laser and Nanofat as a combination therapy for horizontal neck lines compared to Nanofat autologous alone.

The emergence of horizontal neck wrinkles is increasingly becoming a focal point for both cosmetic professionals and clients. Various treatment approaches must be considered to address this issue effectively, owing to its diverse underlying causes. The study explores the potential of utilizing the Endolift laser in conjunction with nanofat injection as a viable treatment option. Twenty patients with horizontal neck wrinkles involved in the study. Ten patients underwent treatment with a combination of Endolift laser and nanofat injection and 10 patients treated with nanofat injection alone. The participants were monitored for 6 months post-treatment. Biometric measurements were utilized to assess outcomes, including changes in volume, depth, and area of the wrinkles, skin elasticity, as well as the diameter and density of the epidermis and dermis in the treated area. Skin improvement was evaluated by two independent dermatologists, who compared before and after photos in a blinded manner. Patient satisfaction levels were also documented. The Visioface analysis showed a notable decrease in neck wrinkle depth and area in both groups. However, the group receiving the combination treatment of Endolift laser and nanofat exhibited a significantly greater improvement compared to the group treated with nanofat alone. Skin ultrasonography results demonstrated an increase in thickness and density of the dermis and epidermis in both groups. Particularly, the group treated with Endolift laser-nanofat displayed significant enhancements in dermis and epidermis density and thickness when contrasted with the nanofat-only group. Analysis with Cutometer revealed a marked enhancement in skin elasticity in the Endolift-nanofat treated group in comparison to the nanofat-only treated group. Furthermore, in the Endolift-nanofat treated group, a substantial majority (90%) of patients exhibited improvement. Patient evaluations highlighted significant distinctions between the two groups, with 95% of patients in the Endolift-nanofat treated group demonstrating enhancement. Both methods notably enhance horizontal neck wrinkles; nevertheless, the combination of endolift laser and nanofat seems to be more efficient for treating horizontal neck wrinkles.

Skin and Scalp Health Benefits of a Specific Botanical Extract Blend: Results from a Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study in Urban Outdoor Workers

Environmental pollution is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to skin and scalp damage. Oral supplementation with a specific blend of four standardized botanical extracts (Rosmarinus officinalis, Lippia citriodora, Olea europaea leaf, and Sophora japonica) has been previously demonstrated to enhance skin health in individuals exposed to high environmental stress. Thus, it might represent a convenient strategy to also improve their scalp health aspect, particularly in subjects with sensitive scalps. To support these effects, a 12-week double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was performed in 66 women working outdoors in urban areas with high particulate matter (PM) levels and taking 250 mg of the botanical blend daily. Product efficacy was measured as follows: skin antioxidant status (FRAP); skin and scalp moisturization (corneometer), transepidermal water loss (tewameter), and oiliness (sebumeter); skin radiance and colour (spectrophotometer), elasticity and firmness (cutometer) and wrinkle depth (image analysis); and scalp clinical evaluation. Despite constant exposure to increased levels of PM, the tested product positively influenced all monitored parameters compared to both baseline and the placebo-treated group, in as early as 4 weeks. At the end of the study, key improvements included increased skin FRAP (21.9%), moisturization (9.5%), radiance (24.9%) and reduced wrinkle depth (−16.5%), dark spot pigmentation (−26.2%), and skin oiliness (−19.3%). For the scalp, moisturization increased (14.1%), TEWL decreased (−13.8%), and sebum content reduced by 16.2%. Additionally, 71% of subjects with sensitive scalps experienced reduced redness. These findings highlight the extensive benefits of the ingredient, expanding its application beyond conventional skin treatments to also alleviate scalp issues.

Cosmeceuticals: A Review of Clinical Studies Claiming to Contain Specific, Well-Characterized Strains of Probiotics or Postbiotics.

The skin serves as a critical barrier against external threats-dehydration, ultraviolet exposure, and infections-playing a significant role in internal homeostasis and moisture retention. Additionally, and equally importantly, it interacts dynamically with the complex microbiome resident in it, which is essential for maintaining skin health. Recent interest has focused on the use of probiotics and postbiotics, besides their ability to modulate the skin microbiome, to enhance barrier function, and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, to be involved in skincare, by having the potential to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance, as well as in reducing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. The products-being a combination of a cosmetic regime plus probiotic[s] or postbiotic[s]-are named cosmeceuticals. However, to comply with the regulations for the characterization of a microorganism as a specific probiotic strain, the pro- or postbiotics incorporated into the cosmetic regime should be both genetically and phenotypically defined. Thus, in this review, we present 14 published clinical trials using such cosmetic products with specific, well-characterized strains of probiotics or postbiotics applied to volunteers with healthy skin. Looking at the results of these studies collectively, we can say that these genetically and phenotypically defined strains of either live or inanimate bacteria and/or their components seem to keep the treated skin at least fully hydrated, with intact epithelial tone, increased radiance, and with decreased wrinkle depth, while normalizing the commensal skin microbiota. Future advancements in personalized skin care may lead to genomic sequencing and metabolomics to tailor probiotic and postbiotic treatments to individual skin microbiomes, promising a new frontier in cosmeceuticals.

Effectiveness of acupuncture therapy on improvement of nasolabial folds and marionette lines: A retrospective study.

The preference of beauty seekers for noninvasive, convenient, and long-lasting effective facial cosmetic techniques with minimal downtime and recovery time is obvious nowadays. As a part of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has great advantages in solving these problems. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of two distinct acupuncture techniques for facial rejuvenation in treating nasolabial folds (NFs) and marionette lines (MLs). One hundred beauty seekers who have received facial acupuncture cosmetic treatment in hospitals between June 1, 2020, and December 31, 2022, were selected randomly and inquired. Among them, 50 beauty seekers (Group Ⅰ) have received a normal facial traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture therapy, by inserting the needles perpendicularly into the acupoints. Meanwhile, another 50 beauty seekers (Group Ⅱ) were treated by needle knives, which were inserted parallelly under the dermis and basically along the meridians of Chinese medicine linked by the acupoints. The records of pain evaluation and adverse events on cases, subjective satisfactions, and objective evaluations of efficacy were summarized and statistically analyzed. The efficacy of Group Ⅱ is better than Group Ⅰ. The dermatologists'assessments for NFand ML show significant differences between Groups Ⅰ and Ⅱ after one course. The mean value of subjective satisfaction also obeys the rules above. Although Group Ⅱ exhibited the highest value of mean pain intensity, the adverse events were basically mild. Furthermore, Group Ⅱ showed higher willingness for additional treatments. Only in terms of the wrinkle depth of NF and ML, the method of acupuncturing parallelly under the dermis by needle knife is safe and more successful.

Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness.

Polynucleotides, complex molecules composed of nucleotides, have gained attention in aesthetic medicine for their potential to regulate gene expression and promote tissue regeneration. This review aims to provide an overview of the current practices and perceived effectiveness of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted using keywords related to polynucleotides, cosmetic application, and aesthetic application. Studies were selected based on their relevance to aesthetic medicine and the inclusion of human subjects. The review found that polynucleotides have been used to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkle depth, and enhance facial appearance. The studies reported varying degrees of efficacy and safety, with some studies demonstrating significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration. However, others reported limited or no benefits. The review also highlighted the need for further research to establish the optimal use and efficacy of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine. While the existing literature suggests that polynucleotides may have potential benefits in aesthetic medicine, more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and optimal use. Clinicians should be aware of the current limitations and potential risks associated with the use of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine.

Photoprotective activities of Capsosiphon fulvescens in UVB-induced SKH-1 mice and human keratinocytes.

Capsosiphon fulvescens (CF) is a green alga widely consumed in East Asian countries, particularly in Korea. It has a rich composition of vitamins, minerals, dietary fibers, and bioactive compounds, which contribute to its multiple therapeutic properties. Its application ranges from acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent to supporting the skin system. Despite these benefits of CF, the effects and mechanisms of action related to photoaging of the skin have not yet been elucidated. To investigate the photoprotective effects of CF against photoaging, both animal (SKH-1 mouse) and cell models (HaCaT cell line) were used in this study. As a result, administering the CF extract over a period of 10weeks, which included times of Ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure, significantly reduced erythema and various UVB-induced skin changes, such as wrinkle formation, and the thickening of the epidermis and dermis, as well as alterations in the length and depth of wrinkles. Furthermore, our investigation into CF extract's antiwrinkle properties revealed its efficacy in enhancing skin hydration and collagen content, counteracting the collagen depletion and moisture loss induced by UVB radiation. Also, the fact that the levels of p-ERK, p-p38, and p-JNK proteins went down shows that the CF extract might have a controlling effect on the MAPK signaling pathways. Our findings suggest that CF holds significant potential for preventing photoaging, providing a foundation for the development of functional foods or botanical drugs targeting skin aging and related skin disorders. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This research proved that Capsosiphon fulvescen, a green alga widely consumed in East Asian countries, provides photoprotective activities against UV-induced skin aging. Therefore, Capsosiphon fulvescen can be utilized as functional foods or botanical drugs targeting skin aging and related skin disorders.

Antiaging, Brightening, and Antioxidant Efficacy of Fermented Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Strategies for successful aging, including the use of food supplements, are part of the approach to support skin youthfulness. To demonstrate the efficacy of fermented bilberry extract (FBE) against skin aging and uneven complexion, a clinical trial was carried out on 66 subjects with visible "crow's feet" wrinkles, mild-to-moderate skin slackness, and uneven skin tone. The wrinkle depth, skin smoothness (Ra) and roughness (Rz), skin firmness (R0) and elasticity (R2), skin coloration (ITA°), and skin antioxidant capacity were measured before and after 28 (D28), 56 (D56), and 84 (D84) days of product use (either FBE or a placebo). These parameters were also integrated with a clinical evaluation, carried out by a dermatologist, and a self-assessment questionnaire to align the measured efficacy with the visual or perceived efficacy. At D84, the wrinkle depth had decreased by 10.6%, Ra had improved by 7.9%, Rz had decreased by 7.3%, R0 had improved by 13.3%, R2 had improved by 12.4%, and skin antioxidant capacity had increased by 20.8%. ITA° increased by 20.8% and was accompanied by a decrease in the skin's redness component by 16.8% and an increase in the lightness component by 2.2%. The variation of all the above-mentioned parameters was statistically significant between the FBE and PL groups. Our findings demonstrate the efficacy of FBE in improving skin aging and complexion evenness.