Daily Cosmetic Research Analysis
A double-blind randomized split-face trial shows that combining onabotulinumtoxinA with a hyaluronic acid microdroplet filler (VYC-12/Skinvive) improves canthal wrinkle severity and patient satisfaction up to 6 months. A systematic review links positive genital self-image to better sexual function, while a comprehensive narrative review synthesizes therapeutic uses and global regulations of sulfur and its derivatives in dermatology.
Summary
A double-blind randomized split-face trial shows that combining onabotulinumtoxinA with a hyaluronic acid microdroplet filler (VYC-12/Skinvive) improves canthal wrinkle severity and patient satisfaction up to 6 months. A systematic review links positive genital self-image to better sexual function, while a comprehensive narrative review synthesizes therapeutic uses and global regulations of sulfur and its derivatives in dermatology.
Research Themes
- Aesthetic dermatology therapeutics and combination injectables
- Psychosexual health and the role of body image in function
- Dermatologic pharmacology and regulatory science for legacy agents
Selected Articles
1. Efficacy and Durability of the Association of Botox and Skinvive in the Treatment of Moderate/Severe Wrinkles in the Periorbital Region: A Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind, Split-Face Clinical Study.
In a double-blind randomized split-face trial of 25 women, adding VYC-12 (Skinvive) to onabotulinumtoxinA improved crow’s feet severity at rest and contraction from 3 months and sustained to 6 months versus BTX alone, without changes in EMG activity. Patient satisfaction was significantly higher at 3 and 6 months with the combination.
Impact: This RCT provides controlled evidence that BTX plus a microdroplet HA product yields superior aesthetic outcomes with sustained benefit, informing combination-injectable protocols.
Clinical Implications: Consider BTX+VYC-12 for patients seeking longer-lasting crow’s feet improvement and higher satisfaction, with similar muscle activity suppression as BTX alone. Protocols may integrate microdroplet HA to enhance tactile smoothness and fine-line effacement.
Key Findings
- No inter-protocol differences in EMG activity across all timepoints (p=0.86).
- BTX+VYC-12 reduced crow’s feet severity at rest by 3 months (p=0.04) and under contraction at 3 (p=0.007) and 6 months (p=0.001) versus BTX alone.
- FACE-Q satisfaction scores were significantly higher with the combination at 3 and 6 months (both p=0.001).
Methodological Strengths
- Randomized, double-blind, split-face design controlling for interindividual variability
- Use of objective (EMG) and validated subjective measures (Merz scale, FACE-Q)
Limitations
- Small, single-center sample of 25 women limits generalizability
- Split-face design may introduce cross-diffusion effects; trial registration and CONSORT adherence not reported
Future Directions: Larger multicenter RCTs with diverse populations, longer follow-up, dose optimization, and biomechanical/skin-quality endpoints (e.g., elasticity, hydration) to define protocols.
2. The impact of genital self-image on sexual function: a systematic review.
Across 10 observational studies including 7,448 adults, positive genital self-image was consistently associated with better sexual function (desire, satisfaction). Premature ejaculation and pelvic floor dysfunction adversely affected both GSI and sexual performance; notably, genital cosmetic surgery did not yield significant functional differences.
Impact: Synthesizes multi-database evidence across both sexes, clarifying that perception of genital appearance relates to sexual function, and informing counseling around cosmetic genital procedures.
Clinical Implications: Screen for genital self-image concerns during sexual dysfunction assessments and set realistic expectations that cosmetic genital surgery may not improve sexual function. Integrate pelvic floor evaluation when appropriate.
Key Findings
- Positive genital self-image correlates with better sexual function (desire, satisfaction) across included studies.
- Premature ejaculation and pelvic floor dysfunction negatively impact both GSI and sexual performance.
- No significant differences in sexual function between women with and without cosmetic genital surgery.
- Sociocultural dissatisfaction with genital size adversely affects GSI and sexual well-being, especially in men.
Methodological Strengths
- Comprehensive multi-database search using a PICO-framed question
- Large aggregate sample size across both sexes; exclusion of low-quality studies
Limitations
- Predominantly cross-sectional designs limit causal inference
- Heterogeneity and limited population diversity restrict generalizability
Future Directions: Prospective longitudinal studies across diverse populations; standardized GSI and sexual function measures; evaluation of counseling and pelvic floor interventions.
3. Sulfur and Its Derivatives in Dermatology: Insights Into Therapeutic Applications-A Narrative Review.
This narrative review collates pharmacologic evidence for sulfur and derivatives in dermatology (e.g., scabies, tinea versicolor, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis) and uniquely maps regional regulatory restrictions and usage. It identifies mechanistic and translational gaps, advocating preclinical work for adjuvant applications.
Impact: Provides the first consolidated overview of both therapeutic mechanisms and global regulatory frameworks for sulfur-based dermatologic agents, guiding safe and compliant clinical use.
Clinical Implications: Clinicians can revisit sulfur-based therapies as cost-effective adjuncts for select dermatoses while aligning concentrations/formulations with regional regulations and monitoring for irritation.
Key Findings
- Summarizes therapeutic indications and mechanisms of sulfur forms (sublimed, precipitated) and derivatives (hydrogen sulfide) in dermatology.
- Provides, for the first time, an overview of regional regulatory restrictions on sulfur/derivatives in dermatologic use.
- Highlights knowledge gaps in mechanistic understanding and calls for preclinical translational studies.
Methodological Strengths
- Comprehensive literature coverage spanning 1947–2025
- Inclusion of regulatory analysis across regions to inform practice
Limitations
- Narrative review without PRISMA methodology increases selection bias risk
- Heterogeneous primary studies and limited quantitative synthesis
Future Directions: Standardized preclinical models to elucidate sulfur/H2S mechanisms, dose–response, and formulation effects; pragmatic trials assessing adjunctive efficacy and tolerability within regulatory-compliant parameters.