by Stefani Kim
At the Premier Global Hot Topics Session held at the 2018 Aesthetic Meeting, panelists discussed some of the new developments in skin science.
Dr Stephen Ronan presented the benefits of the Vivace RF Microneedling system—a type of collagen induction therapy—which is designed to tighten fine lines and wrinkling, as well as treat textured skin like crow’s feet and acne scarring. Benefits of this treatment include less pain and downtime for the patient, as the procedure utilizes very fine needles and can be done with topical numbing. Ronan also recommends utilizing Vivace with platelet rich plasma (PRP)—also known as the “Vampire Facial”—for improved results in stimulating the skin’s natural healing response.
Dr Barry DiBernardo discussed the use of alpha and beta defensins—messaging peptides usually activated during injury—for topical skin rejuvenation. Results are similar to retinol, he said, without the signs of inflammation, and give the skin clarity, smoothness, and an even tone.
According to Dr Lawrence Bass, Xiaflex (collagenase clostridium histolyticum) by Endo Pharmaceuticals is currently in Phase 3 trials to treat cellulite by disrupting the fibrous septae with a subcutaneous injection. Cellulite is a condition in which a layer of fat beneath the skin pushes against connective tissue, causing the skin to appear lumpy or dimpled. Bass said a majority of adult women have cellulite and could potentially benefit from this new treatment. In a study of 375 patients, he reports that the treatment was “well-tolerated,” though patients did report some bruising.
“Obviously, there’s a whole plethora of potential applications for this … we’re going to have to start to think what structures benefit from loosening and which are better left alone,” Bass says.
Stefani Kim is a contributing writer to Plastic Surgery Practice.
