Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (Apr 2023)
The Effectiveness of Injectable Hyaluronic Acid in the Improvement of the Facial Skin Quality: A Systematic Review
Abstract
Anjali Sharad Ghatge,1,* Sharad Balasaheb Ghatge2,* 1Department of Dermatology, Apollo Clinic, Mumbai, 400001, India; 2Department of Radiology, Sir JJ Group of Hospitals and Grant Government Medical College, Mumbai, 400008, India*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Anjali Sharad Ghatge, Apollo Clinic, Ground Floor, Eucharistic Congress Building No. 1, 5, Convent Street, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400001, India, Tel +91-22-22021188, Email [email protected]: Several studies have evaluated the role of various injectable formulations of hyaluronic acid (HA) in the improvement of the quality of facial skin. It is important to systematically summarize the available evidence in this regard.Methods: Relevant databases were searched for clinical studies that evaluated the therapeutic role of any injectable formulation of HA in improving the quality of facial skin in adult humans until 31 December 2022. The available studies were critically analyzed and the data were extracted.Results: A total of 2996 articles were screened and 13 studies were finally included. Eight studies evaluated the effect of various formulations of HA alone, while five evaluated the effect of various formulations of HA along with other active ingredients (cocktails) on the quality of facial skin. All types of HA formulations cause a significant improvement in facial skin quality, in terms of hydration, firmness, skin-tiring effect/fatigue, brightness, texture, radiance, and elasticity. The effect of HA monotherapy was more pronounced than that of the cocktail ingredients. HA treatment was quite safe and the patient satisfaction level was high.Conclusion: The clinical evidence on the use of injectable HA alone in the improvement of the quality of facial skin, in terms of hydration, firmness, skin-tiring effect/fatigue, brightness, texture, radiance, and elasticity, is quite promising. Large randomized controlled trials are required in this regard.Keywords: face, hyaluronic acid, HA, skin booster, skin quality
