Research Summary
Skin aging goes beyond a chronological process and is also influenced by extrinsic factors referred to as the exposome. Hyaluronic acid (HA), an important component of the extracellular matrix, begins to decrease in the body starting at the age of 25. While many studies focus on the topical use of HA, few literature reviews address its specific role in dermatology. This review highlights the characteristics of HA-containing cosmeceuticals, with a particular focus on skin aging and the impact of exposome factors on HA synthesis and degradation.
A review was conducted using search terms such as HA, hyaluronan, topical, dermatology, cosmetic, aging treatment, exposome, and cosmeceuticals. Results from a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) are also presented, which investigated the additional benefits of using a HA epidermic filler (HA-filler serum) in combination with Botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) for treating signs of skin aging. Subjects in the study were randomized into two groups: one receiving the HA-filler serum starting 24 hours after the BoNTA injection and then applied twice daily for 24 weeks, and a control group that only received BoNTA.
HA is a key ingredient in cosmeceuticals due to its hydration and anti-aging properties, which include hygroscopic, rheological, and viscoelastic benefits. Several clinical studies have shown that HA is both well-tolerated and effective, particularly when used as an adjuvant in post-surgical treatments and facial rejuvenation procedures. In the RCT, which was one of the few studies to combine BoNTA and HA with a six-month follow-up, the HA-filler serum extended the duration of BoNTA’s effect in reducing wrinkles. Numerous studies support HA-based cosmeceuticals as a non-invasive and effective solution for improving skin hydration and rejuvenation.
Keywords: cosmeceutical, dermatology, hyaluronic acid, skin, topical application
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