Injectable collagen in correction of age-related skin changes: experimental and clinical parallels

Abstract

To a large extent, age-related facial skin changes, wrinkles and flabbiness, are attributed to the structural alterations in dermis, including of collagen fibers fragmentation and disorganization. There are various cosmetological correction methods that aim to activate neocollagenesis and dermal remodeling. From this perspective, intradermal injections of exogenous collagen preparations seem logical. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of Collost 7% collagen complex applied to correct the age-related facial skin changes, as well as clarify the possible mechanisms of skin rejuvenation resulting from a course of intradermal injections. 35 participants entered the study, 30 of them finished it. A set of indicators describing age-related skin changes was assessed with the help of clinical scales; the assessment revealed a pronounced improvement in the quality of the patients' skin, including smoothed relief in the area of localization of fine wrinkles. The therapy resulted in a statistically significant improvement of the skin's elasticity, which, combined with the changes discovered through US scanning (greater dermis thickness and echodensity), is an indirect indication of skin restructuring associated with accumulation of fibrous protein structures. These results allow parallels with the experimental data that shows activation of neocollagenesis in the skin of laboratory animals after a course of Collost 7% gel. The research revealed no serious adverse events. A course of collagen administered intradermally can be recommended as an aesthetic correction procedure, as well as means of prevention of atrophy that has a significant effect on skin's appearance and health status.