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Daily Report

Daily Cosmetic Research Analysis

03/19/2025
3 papers selected
3 analyzed

Today's top studies span clinical dermatologic surgery, consensus-based safety standards for aesthetic injectables, and an age-tailored artificial skin model for cosmetic formulation testing. Together, they advance oncologic-cosmetic decision-making, standardize ultrasound use to reduce filler-related complications, and provide a reproducible in vitro platform to optimize age-specific cosmetic film performance.

Summary

Today's top studies span clinical dermatologic surgery, consensus-based safety standards for aesthetic injectables, and an age-tailored artificial skin model for cosmetic formulation testing. Together, they advance oncologic-cosmetic decision-making, standardize ultrasound use to reduce filler-related complications, and provide a reproducible in vitro platform to optimize age-specific cosmetic film performance.

Research Themes

  • Safety and standardization in aesthetic injectables via ultrasound
  • Age-specific artificial skin models for cosmetic film optimization
  • Oncologic-cosmetic balance in basal cell carcinoma surgery

Selected Articles

1. Age-tailored artificial skin model for cosmetic film development.

81.5Level VCase series
Materials today. Bio · 2025PMID: 40104640

Using micro-CT-derived topographies from young and aged Korean skin, the authors built PDMS replicas to quantify how age-related roughness and wrinkles alter cosmetic thin-film deposition. The model, further refined by incorporating porosity and sebum, enables standardized age-specific evaluation of film coverage to guide formulation optimization.

Impact: Introduces a reproducible, age-tailored in vitro platform to quantify cosmetic film behavior, reducing reliance on human testing and enabling targeted formulation for different age groups.

Clinical Implications: While not a clinical study, this model can inform dermatologists and cosmetic scientists by predicting coverage challenges in aged skin and accelerating development of products tailored to age-related topography.

Key Findings

  • Micro-CT revealed age-dependent topographies that influence thin-film deposition.
  • PDMS-based replicas enabled quantitative film coverage assessment on human-derived positives and the model.
  • An improved model incorporating skin porosity and sebum was proposed to enhance realism.

Methodological Strengths

  • High-resolution X-ray microtomography to capture true skin topography.
  • Direct comparison between human-derived skin positives and PDMS models with quantitative metrics.

Limitations

  • Validation appears limited to a Korean cohort; generalizability across ethnicities and sites is uncertain.
  • Lacks correlation with user-perceived outcomes and dynamic biomechanical skin behavior.

Future Directions: Validate across diverse populations and facial/body sites, correlate model outputs with clinical/user outcomes, and incorporate sweat/sebum dynamics and elasticity for real-world prediction.

Thin film deposition is essential in the cosmetic industry, where formulations such as foundations and concealers rely on uniform layer formation to conceal pores and texture irregularities for a natural and even appearance. However, variations in skin topography, influenced by factors such as aging, genetics, and environmental exposure, can significantly affect the behavior of these films. Aging, in particular, leads to increased skin roughness and wrinkles, creating challenges to achieve consistent cosmetic deposition in diverse age groups. This study investigates the impact of age-related topographical changes on cosmetic thin film deposition and introduces a model for standardized, age-specific evaluation of cosmetic performance. Using X-ray microtomography, we compare skin topography from a cohort of the Korean population segmented into young and aged groups. A PDMS-based model is then constructed using these skin topographies, and thin film deposition is assessed both on human-derived skin positives and on the assembled model. This approach demonstrates the potential of artificial skin models for the precise quantification and evaluation of film coverage. In addition, we propose an improved model that incorporates key factors such as skin porosity and sebum production to increase realism. By exploring the interactions between skin morphology and cosmetic behavior, this method offers valuable insights into optimizing formulations to meet the diverse needs of consumers.

2. The use of ultrasound imaging in aesthetic injectables: A modified Delphi consensus.

76Level VCase series
Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS · 2025PMID: 40101353

An international panel achieved consensus on prerequisites and best practices for ultrasound in aesthetic injections: at least a 15 MHz linear probe, mandatory B-mode/Color and Spectral Doppler with archiving, and recommended Power Doppler. Ultrasound scanning is mandatory in high-risk vascular areas and for complication management, and ultrasound-guided injections are recommended across many facial regions with strict sterile technique.

Impact: Provides the first international, multi-specialty consensus detailing equipment, indications, and training for ultrasound use in aesthetic injectables, enabling safer, standardized practice and likely reducing severe vascular events.

Clinical Implications: Adopt routine pre-injection ultrasound scanning in high-risk zones, document with archiving, identify prior fillers, and use ultrasound guidance (with sterile probe cover/gel) for fillers, toxin, and injection lipolysis; implement a structured training curriculum before clinical use.

Key Findings

  • Minimum equipment: ≥15 MHz linear probe; B-mode, Color and Spectral Doppler, and archiving are mandatory; Power Doppler recommended; handheld devices are acceptable.
  • Ultrasound prior to injection is mandatory in high-risk vascular areas and for complication management; identify prior fillers before injecting.
  • Ultrasound-guided injections are recommended in many facial regions for fillers, toxin, and injection lipolysis; sterile probe cover and gel are required; necessary for precise intralesional injections in complication treatment.

Methodological Strengths

  • Structured four-round modified Delphi with international, multi-specialty experts.
  • High agreement thresholds (>70%) achieved for most statements, yielding actionable guidance.

Limitations

  • Expert consensus without prospective outcome validation; potential panel selection bias.
  • No patient-level data to quantify complication rate reduction after implementation.

Future Directions: Prospective, multicenter studies to quantify complication reduction with ultrasound-guided practice and development of competency-based training and certification frameworks.

A four-round modified Delphi consensus was held concerning the question, 'What are the prerequisites for using ultrasound imaging in cosmetic filler injections'? Fifteen international experts in the field from seven different relevant medical specialties and 11 countries were included. An extensive list of topics was discussed in rounds 1 and 2. Statements were drawn up for voting in rounds 3 and 4. Experts had a consensus (>70% agreement) on most of the statements. With regard to equipment, a minimum linear 15 MHz transducer (probe) is recommended for both learning and regular diagnostics. Hand-held devices can be used in both circumstances. B-mode, Color-Doppler, Spectral Doppler, and picture/video archiving are mandatory, Power-Doppler is recommended. Experts find ultrasound imaging prior to injection mandatory in certain areas with high risk for vascular adverse events, as well as for the management of complications. It is recommended to identify prior fillers before injecting. An ultrasound-guided injection is recommended in many parts of the face for fillers, toxin and injection lipolysis. A sterile probe cover and sterile gel are necessary in these cases. Ultrasound-guidance is necessary for precise intralesional injections, needed in filler complication treatment. An extensive list of training and practice topics is given that should be learned before one can start using ultrasound imaging in cosmetic filler injection practice. Ultrasound imaging for minimal invasive aesthetic procedures has met a significant surge in attention, both in publication numbers and in prominence at major conferences. For physicians and institutions exploring this field, many critical decisions must be made, particularly concerning the prerequisites for using ultrasound imaging in cosmetic filler injections. Guidelines from international experts addressing these topics would provide valuable insights and facilitate the adoption of ultrasound technology in this field.

3. Exploring the role of surgical margins and reoperation in basal cell carcinoma recurrence: a study of 3036 cases.

59Level IIICohort
Archives of dermatological research · 2025PMID: 40106006

In a retrospective analysis of 3036 excisions (2037 patients), complete excision was achieved in 93.3%, but incomplete margins were more frequent in head/neck sites and certain histologic subtypes. Reoperation for high-risk BCCs significantly lowered recurrence (0.52%), and narrow margins correlated with higher recurrence, underscoring the need for adequate clearance.

Impact: Large-scale real-world data clarify when to prioritize reoperation and how margin width impacts recurrence, informing surgical planning that balances oncologic control with cosmetic outcomes.

Clinical Implications: For high-risk or head/neck BCCs with incomplete excision, prioritize reoperation and avoid overly narrow margins to minimize recurrence; integrate risk stratification into preoperative counseling regarding cosmetic trade-offs.

Key Findings

  • Complete excision rate was 93.3%; incomplete excisions were more common in head/neck sites and certain histologic subtypes.
  • Reoperation for high-risk BCCs significantly reduced recurrence, with an overall recurrence of 0.52%.
  • Narrow excision margins were associated with higher recurrence.
  • Nodular subtype was most common (45.85%); head was the most affected site (54.74%).

Methodological Strengths

  • Large sample size across 3036 excisions with standardized surgical protocols.
  • Stratified analysis by anatomical site and histologic subtype.

Limitations

  • Retrospective, single-region study; potential residual confounding.
  • Margin widths and follow-up duration not detailed in the abstract.

Future Directions: Prospective studies to define optimal margins by risk strata, assess cosmetic/functional outcomes, and evaluate cost-effectiveness of reoperation versus surveillance.

INTRODUCTION: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer globally, with its prevalence increasing due to chronic ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Although surgical excision remains the cornerstone of treatment, achieving optimal outcomes requires a careful balance between complete tumor removal and the preservation of cosmetic appearance. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the relationship between excision margins, reoperation rates, and BCC recurrence through a retrospective analysis of 3036 surgical excisions. METHODS: Conducted at the Department of Plastic Surgery in Trieste, Italy, this study includes data from 2037 patients treated between 2014 and 2018. Excision procedures adhered to standardized hospital protocols. Tumor characteristics, excision margins, and involved anatomical sites were analyzed. RESULTS: The study demonstrated an equal gender distribution (51.02% women), with the nodular subtype (45.85%) being the most common. The head was the most frequently affected site (54.74%). A complete excision rate of 93.3% was achieved, but incomplete excisions were more common in head and neck locations and certain histological subtypes. Surgical reinterventions were primarily performed for high-risk BCCs, significantly reducing recurrence rates (0.52%). CONCLUSION: Reoperation, especially for high-risk BCCs, should be prioritized over conservative management to minimize recurrence. Narrow excision margins were associated with higher recurrence rates, highlighting the importance of adequate margin clearance. This study enhances understanding of the complex interplay between excision techniques, reoperation, and long-term outcomes in BCC management.