Aesthetics research

PMID: 41760129

Facial Plast Surg. 2026 Feb 27. doi: 10.1055/a-2764-3062. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Injectable collagen stimulators have traditionally been linked to inflammatory foreign-body reactions (FBR) as a mechanism of action. However, the next-generation PLLA-LASYNPRO microspheres, contained in the CE-marked JULÄINE medical device, may represent a paradigm shift. Preclinical data suggest these microspheres can promote collagen and extracellular matrix (ECM) regeneration with minimal inflammatory response.This study aimed to evaluate the scientific soundness and clinical relevance of a non-inflammatory mechanism of action for PLLA-LASYNPRO. The central hypothesis was that design and manufacturing innovations could enable effective biostimulation while reducing inflammation and long-term tissue reactions.A structured expert board meeting was convened to assess the rationale and implications of this emerging mechanism. The process included a preliminary survey and an in-person consensus meeting involving multidisciplinary specialists in aesthetic and regenerative medicine.On January 24, 2025, 13 experts in aesthetic medicine, dermatology, and plastic surgery participated in a board meeting held in Milan, Italy. Scientific literature and preclinical data were reviewed in advance. Discussions were organized around biophysical characteristics, tissue integration, inflammatory profile, and safety considerations.The board considered the non-inflammatory mechanism of PLLA-LASYNPRO both biologically plausible and clinically promising. Key differentiating features included particle morphology, lack of excipients, and manufacturing purity. The panel highlighted the potential to reduce chronic inflammation, a known limitation of traditional collagen stimulators. Early clinical impressions supported this hypothesis, although prospective data are still forthcoming.This manuscript presents the consensus of a multidisciplinary board on the rationale for PLLA-LASYNPRO in aesthetic and regenerative medicine. It forms the first part of a two-paper series. The second manuscript will provide practical clinical guidance for the deep dermal administration of PLLA-LASYNPRO and real-world use of JULÄINE.

PMID: 41756809

Aesthet Surg J Open Forum. 2026 Jan 29;8:ojag013. doi: 10.1093/asjof/ojag013. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

The global demand for cosmetic surgery continues to rise, driven largely by societal factors and personal motivations related to self-esteem and psychological well-being. Although previous reviews have examined general psychological outcomes, specific impacts on self-esteem remain underexplored. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize current evidence regarding the effects of nonreconstructive cosmetic surgery on self-esteem in adult patients. A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and others, from January 2005 to March 2025. Studies evaluating self-esteem before and after cosmetic procedures using validated scales were included. The methodological quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project criteria. Data synthesis employed a random-effects meta-analyses using Hedges' g to estimate effect sizes. Twenty-five studies (n = 1502 patients) met inclusion criteria. The overall meta-analysis indicated a statistically significant improvement in self-esteem after cosmetic surgery (Hedges' g = 0.43, 95% CI, 0.13-0.73; P = .003). Subgroup analyses demonstrated a significant positive impact particularly in breast surgeries (g = 0.59; P = .006), whereas facial surgeries showed smaller, nonsignificant changes (g = 0.23; P = .268). Cosmetic surgery is associated with a small to moderate but significant improvement in self-esteem, particularly after breast procedures. Level of Evidence: 2 (Therapeutic).

PMID: 41689191

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2026 Feb;25(2):e70696. doi: 10.1111/jocd.70696.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological disorders worldwide, affecting both adolescents and adults. It frequently leads to significant psychosocial and physical sequelae, including acne-induced hyperpigmentation and scarring. Beyond pharmaceutical therapies, dermocosmetics-topical formulations enriched with active ingredients in cosmetically elegant vehicles-have emerged as essential partners in acne management. They optimize clinical outcomes by supporting skin barrier repair, reducing irritation associated with conventional treatments, and targeting key pathogenic pathways in acne. However, no region-specific guidance exists to inform the effective use of dermocosmetics in South African patients, particularly those with skin of color.

AIMS: To develop expert consensus recommendations for the use of dermocosmetics in acne vulgaris management within the South African context.

METHODS: This consensus was developed through structured expert meetings and a targeted literature review of current international and local evidence. The panel synthesized clinical experience and research findings to identify key principles for selecting and integrating dermocosmetics into acne treatment regimens.

RESULTS: The consensus highlights the multifaceted role of dermocosmetics in addressing core acne pathogenic factors, supporting epidermal barrier function, mitigating treatment-related adverse effects, and managing acne-induced hyperpigmentation in skin of color. Practical recommendations are provided for their use as adjunctive therapy, monotherapy in mild cases, and maintenance therapy to sustain remission.

CONCLUSION: This South African consensus provides a practical, evidence-informed framework for incorporating dermocosmetics into acne management, with particular attention to the needs of patients with skin of color. Adoption of these recommendations may enhance treatment outcomes, adherence, and patient satisfaction across diverse skin types.