Abstracts

A summary of the latest clinical studies

Title: Bi-Bi Technique for Lip Augmentation: A Retrospective Study on 30 Cases Authors: Smarrito S, et al. Published: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, July 2022 Keywords: Lips, Cannula, Hyaluronic Acid Abstract: Hyaluronic acid (HA) lip augmentation procedures are performed either superficially or deeply with a needle or cannula, and only one type of HA is used. The authors’ objective was to evaluate the feasibility, safety and satisfaction level of a procedure combining two anatomical injection plans, two injection modes (i.e. cannula and needle) and two types of HA filler. The retrospective study included 30 patients who underwent intramuscular retrotrace injections of Stylage M (Vivacy Laboratories) conducted through a 27-gauge cannula in the upper and lower hemi-lip, and intradermal injections of Stylage Lips (Vivacy Laboratories) using a 33-gauge needle on the lip border and cupid’s bow. Subjects were asked to evaluate satisfaction and the fillers’ effect over time. Elastic and viscosity moduli of HA fillers were measured with a rheometer (AR2000, TA Instruments) prior to and after extrusion through a 33-gauge needle. Rheological assessment showed that passage through this needle did not alter the fillers’ viscoelastic properties. After the procedure, no vascular incidents or side effects were observed except standard post-treatment bruises and edema. Overall patient satisfaction was high, with long-lasting effects. The study demonstrated that dissociating the anatomical zones of the lip during the injection procedure by means of different HAs in the muscular and dermal planes would efficiently and safely provide both lip projection and fullness for a natural and lasting effect.

Title: Pathogenesis-Oriented Therapy of Psoriasis Using Biologics Authors: Boehncke W, et al. Published: Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, July 2022 Keywords: Biologics, Personalised Medicine, Psoriasis Abstract: Psoriasis is currently regarded an immune-mediated inflammatory disease. The central pathogenic axis comprises interleukin-23, TH17-lymphocytes differentiating under its influence and interleukin-17A as a key effector cytokine of these T-lymphocytes. All of these can be selectively targeted using biological therapies, thus potentially increasing efficacy and reducing adverse events when compared to conventional systemic therapeutics. We review the current concept of psoriasis as an immune-mediated inflammatory disease, assessing the evidence regarding elements of the innate and adaptive immune system. We then correlate the pharmacological effects of biologics in psoriasis in the light of the known physiologic and pathophysiological role of the respective targets. This is done based on extensive literature search of publications since 2018 which describes the role of the abovementioned elements in health and disease, or the effects of blocking these as an attempt to treat psoriasis. Biologics targeting the abovementioned central pathogenic axis provide a particularly effective and safe way to treat psoriasis. Given the impact of comorbidities on therapeutic decision-making, and the efficacy of some biologics on certain comorbidities, these drugs represent a first step towards personalised medicine in the management of psoriasis. Title: Skin of Colour Skin Care Needs: Results of a Multi-Centre-Based Survey Authors: Geisler, A, et al. Published: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2022 Keywords: Diversity, Inclusivity, Skincare Abstract: Barriers to responsible health information include exposure to sources or lack thereof, insufficient knowledge, inadequate proximity to stores, cost and marketing of products that are not suitable for all skin types. We conducted a survey to characterise the skincare practices, concerns and habits of people of colour and non-Hispanic whites to evaluate barriers and influences on product choice and behaviours. One-hundred-and-twenty respondents self-identified as nonwhite, while 31 self-identified as non-Hispanic white. The top skincare concerns in the skin of colour (SOC) population were acne and blemishes, dry skin and pigmentation/dark spots. In the non-Hispanic white population, the top concerns were fine lines and wrinkles, acne and blemishes and dry skin. When questioned about barriers to dermatologic products, SOC respondents were more likely to cite lack of available products for their skin type compared to white respondents. SOC respondents identified internet and social media as major sources of dermatologic information compared to white respondents. Healthcare disparities can be heightened by targeted marketing and the media, which have a major impact on patient health literacy and consumer choices. Dermatologists should be aware of this when addressing knowledge gaps, minimising bias and increasing inclusivity for all skin types.

Title: Botulinum Toxin Injection as a Single or Combined Treatment with HA Gel for Neck Rejuvenation Authors: Noormohammadpour P, et al. Published: Dermatologic Therapy, July 2022 Keywords: This study evaluated the efficacy of botulinum toxin injection as a single or combined treatment with Profhilo gel for neck rejuvenation during ageing. Patients were randomly divided into two groups, and initial clinical scoring based on the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS) and a Multi Adaptor System (MPA) were performed. Dysport botulinum toxin was injected for all participants, but one group (intervention) received Profhilo gel injections after two weeks. Three months later, patients were evaluated according to the GAIS (global aesthetic improvement scale) by two blind dermatologists, and skin biophysical parameters were measured by MPA including TEWL, hydration, thickness, density, elasticity and firmness. Nineteen participants in the control (Dysport) and intervention (Dysport + Profhilo gel) groups were evaluated. Before treatment, the two groups’ WSRS scores and biophysical skin parameters were similar. Three months after treatment, hydration and skin thickness in the intervention group were significantly higher than the control group. Similarly, the intervention group’s GAIS scores were significantly better. Profhilo gel following Dysport botulinum toxin can be considered a safe and more effective treatment of neck ageing than botulinum toxin injection alone.