High molecular weight hyaluronic acid with amino acid effective in perioral rejuvenation

Individuals who underwent high molecular weight hyaluronic acid and amino acid injections showed significant improvement in the perioral area, according to an observational study.

“Many investigations have been conducted that demonstrate the beneficial effects of [hyaluronic acid] and a cluster of [amino acids] in ulcers and other wounds,” Irina Poleva, MD, of Compagnie Generale des Hopitaux di Roma in Rome, wrote. “The present study demonstrated a novel application of this medical device in the aesthetic and anti-aging fields.”

The study evaluated the effects of an injectable formula containing high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW HA) and a cluster of amino acids (AAs). According to the Poleva, HA has moisturizing and rejuvenating effects, and HMW HA has anti-inflammatory properties, degrades slowly, inhibits the production of proinflammatory mediators, reduces toll-like receptor expression and regulates angiogenesis. Further, HA is an “excellent vehicle” for AAs, which assist in the production of collagen.

The open-label observational study included 37 women aged 40 to 65 years who showed signs of aging in the perioral area. Each patient received three sessions of monthly intradermal injections of 2.5 mL of the solution containing HMW HA with AAs. A local anesthetic cream containing lidocaine and prilocaine was applied to the skin 40 minutes before the injection.

Investigators followed up with patients 180 days after the first treatment to assess outcomes based on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) questionnaire, which determines scores based on five categories: dryness, desquamation, wrinkles, lack of tone and size of pores.

The results of the GAIS showed that 89% of patients found their appearance “much improved” or “very much improved” and 11% of patients considered their appearance to be “slightly improved.” An objective evaluation by investigators also showed a consistent trend of improvement in all five categories.

Additionally, patients reported satisfaction due to the lack of side effects, with 16.2% of patients experiencing slight bruising and swelling at the injection point.

“The treatment protocol produced natural and subtle results, without an unwanted volume,” Poleva wrote. “Further investigations with a larger number of patients and a longer follow-up period should be conducted to verify these findings.”