u/DIY-sparkling-mod

Happy 4th everybody!

The study argues that successful biostimulation should be viewed as regeneration of an ECM ecosystem rather than simply collagen induction. This study is great as many aesthetic studies rely only on photographs or subjective assessments. It included tissue biopsies, histology, immunohistochemistry, and hiigh frequency ultrasound. These are objective biological endpoints and represent a higher level of evidence than just B/A photos.

There are a few other findings I didn't outline in the images as I thought the sun damage ws interesting and just unexpected. And at a certain point it can be hard to relay messaging when compounding different learnings so think the actual proteoglycan and elastic fiber biology is worth a future discussion. But, the decorin and versican increased at 3 months. Fibulin-5 (a protein involved in elastic fiber assembly) rose most noticeably by 6 months, particularly in the 1:2 dilution group. This suggests that some regenerative processes may continue long after collagen peaks. Which is also what's interesting to me, this shows signs there might be broader regeneration than how we're classifying this biomaterial.

The study also validates the clinical approach of dilution and different goals. Undiluted is best for volumization and structural support, 1:1 is best for overall regenerative balance, and 1:2 is best for broad tissue distribution with strong elastin-related signaling. The findings support the practice of using 1:1 dilution when the goal is skin quality improvement rather than pure volume replacement. 

The study is small (only 10 subjects) which is the biggest limitation, although the subject design helps it's still affected by random variation or overestimation. The study was funded by Merz Aesthetics, who is the manufacturer of Radiesse, and several authors were affiliated with the company. This does not invalidate the data and studies are expensive so funding does make sense a lot of times, but it raises the possibility of sponsorship bias. Independent replication would strengthen confidence. So I'd look at this as preliminary research that will influence more studies and findings.

The study looked at solar elastosis, which is one of the hallmark histologic signs of chronic sun damage. Solar elastosis occurs when years of UV exposure cause abnormal accumulation of damaged elastin material in the dermis. Under the microscope, instead of organized elastic fibers, you see thick, tangled, dysfunctional elastotic material. It's one of the reasons photoaged skin becomes coarse, leathery, yellowish, and less elastic. After CaHA treatment the investigators observed a reduction in elastosis scores over time, increased expression of proteins involved in healthy elastic fiber formation (particularly fibulin-5), and evidence suggesting remodeling of damaged extracellular matrix rather than simply laying down new collagen. That's potentially important because many skin rejuvenation treatments can stimulate collagen without necessarily addressing the damaged elastin architecture that characterizes photoaging. (This is a big thing that people don't realize.) Traditionally, we think of biostimulators like Radiesse as creating an immediate scaffold or inducing fibroblasts to make collagen and this paper suggests a more complex process and may be helping the skin replace some of the dysfunctional sun damaged matrix with healthier tissue. I would not say it reverses sun damage (yet idk maybe there's more findings or longterm data) as histologic improvement in elastosis is not the same as complete reversal of decades of UV injury. But seeing measurable changes in elastosis markers over only six months is something to put on your radar. Again only 10 subjects but if you're interested in skin aging research I actually find the elastosis findings potentially more interesting than the collagen findings. Like we already know that CaHA stimulates collagen, so finding evidence that it may help remodel sun damaged elastic tissue is new and impactful, but we'd want future studies to confirm this.

I also find this interesting and relevant to us (beyond the regenerative aesthetics, but we're starting to see investigation into microneedling with CaHA, so I'd be curious on more histological data too.

>ABSTRACT
Background: Calcium hydroxylapatite-carboxymethylcellulose (CaHA- CMC) stimulates neocollagenesis across a range of dilutions; however, the magnitude and temporal profile of this bioregenerative response have not yet been comprehensively examined.

>Objective: To assess collagen, elastin, and proteoglycan expression, as well as elastosis, microcirculation, and skin thickness after injection of undiluted and diluted CaHA- CMC.
Methods: In this prospective, single-site study (NCT06093815), 10 adults undergoing abdominoplasty were injected subcutaneously into the pannus with CaHA- CMC (+), CaHA- CMC 1:1, CaHA- CMC 1:2, and saline control 6 months, 3 months, and 14 days
before surgery. Skin thickness, elastosis, and microcirculation were measured with ultrasound, and collagen, elastin, decorin, versican, and fibulin-5 were quantified using histology and immunohistochemistry. Continuous outcomes were analyzed using mixed-effects models, and paired categorical outcomes were analyzed using the Stuart–Maxwell test and repeated-measures proportional-odds ordinal models.
Results: Elastosis improved at 6 months for CaHA- CMC (+) and CaHA- CMC 1:1, and skin thickness increased significantly at 3 months for CaHA- CMC (+) and at 3 and 6 months for CaHA- CMC 1:1. Microcirculation also improved over time for all CaHA- CMC dilutions, with the strongest and most consistent changes observed for CaHA- CMC 1:1. Collagen deposition was significantly greater than saline at all time points for all dilutions, with the highest levels observed at 3 months for CaHA- CMC 1:1. Decorin and versican were elevated at 3 months, whereas fibulin-5 increased at 6 months, particularly for CaHA- CMC 1:2.
Conclusion: CaHA- CMC induces coordinated ECM remodeling, with the most consistent overall improvements observed for CaHA- CMC 1:1, supporting its use for bioregenerative skin quality improvement.

>Keywords: biostimulator | CaHA | calcium hydroxylapatite | extracellular matrix | neocollagenesis | Radiesse | regenerative aesthetics

I enjoy this person's content. His name is John Dombrowski, he went to Cornell and is a marine biologist, entomologist, and cosmetic chemist. But he is also a person that promotes science backed beauty!

This post isn't about the book he's calling out, but because he shares some free and affordable resources on acne education I thought it might be relevant for anyone wanting to learn more.

There's always lots of complaints, confusion, and frustration on redness after microneedling. Or erythema. So let's actually look and see what research shows. Redness can happen after microneedling, but it is not how results are measured in research. More redness has not been shown to mean more collagen or better outcomes.

Redness may show that the skin has reacted, but it has not been established as a measure of collagen induction or treatment success. You may get redness when doing microneedling at home or it might not be that intense, but it is not indicative of what your results will be like.

Thought this was interesting, this paper was published a few days ago actually. But its central argument is that facial fat should no longer be treated as uniform tissue when designing regenerative therapies. Instead facial adipose is organized into distinct superficial and deep fat compartments. Which that's something that's already discussed, but thinking of these compartments each with unique anatomy, biomechanics, vascularity, cellular composition, and aging patterns. The authors approaches are for future biomaterials, scaffolds, and tissue engineered constructs that would be specifically tailored to these compartments and their differences instead of a one size fits all approach.

I think this is relevant for microneedling and regenerative aesthetics. Not only is everything connected, but the mechanisms of aging and actual origins are not really common knowledge. Sometimes microneedling is not the best form of action for certain things, sometimes it is, and sometimes it in combination with other modalities can make a significant impact. The goal is to be able to understand this so you have the information and access to information to do this or get it done professionally.

Some terminology that might help:

ECM = Extracellular matrix = The structural/protein scaffold around cells in tissue.
DAM = Decellularized adipose matrix = Fat tissue with the cells removed, leaving fat-derived ECM
DAT = Decellularized adipose tissue = Similar idea to DAM, processed fat tissue with cells removed
AAM = Allograft adipose matrix = Donor derived fat ECM matrix, usually processed for implantation/injection
Injectable adipose ECM = Injectable adipose extracellular matrix = Fat-derived ECM processed into an injectable form

I have no idea why they organized the paper like they did lol, but I reorganized it so it might be easier to decipher. In my head, it would make sense to organize and label it like this.

Category 1 is something to use for real world comparisons and current clinical treatments. These are not bioengineered materials.

* = not in the paper, but belongs in the category and I think name recognition also helps make sense of the category.

Category	Subtype	Examples / abbreviations	Brand examples
Autologous fat-derived injectables	Patient’s own fat products	Coleman fat, microfat, nanofat, SVF-gel, HDF, AMC	(Not branded) These are processing methods
Adipose-derived ECM	ECM made from fat tissue (Fat-tissue ECM scaffolds/matrices)	DAM, DAT, AAM, injectable adipose ECM	Renuva*, Leneva*, AlloFill*, alloClae*,
Non-adipose ECM	Dermal/placental/other ECM	ADM, hADM, placental decellularized matrix, collagen type I	AlloDerm*, Cymetra*, Re2O/Elravie Re2O*, Sesalo*, Regenfil*, CXU*
Injectable collagen products	Atelocollagen, recombinant collagen, collagen type I/III/V	Type I collagen, collagen gels/scaffolds, atelocollagen*, recombinant human-like collagen*	Karisma*, Collareju*, Collapleo*, TheraFill*, Tesoro Collagen*, Manla Kar*, Puri COLL rh*, Linerase*, CellReDM*
Crosslinked HA fillers	Structural HA gels for volume/contour	Crosslinked HA; paper discusses crosslinked vs non-crosslinked HA mechanics	Juvéderm*, Restylane*, Belotero*, Teosyal*, Elravie Premier*
Non-crosslinked / stabilized HA boosters	Hydration/bioremodeling HA, not classic filler	Non-crosslinked HA; stabilized HA complexes*	Profhilo*, Viscoderm*, Sunekos*,
Research HA hydrogels	Engineered HA platforms	MeHA, HAMA, tyramine-modified HA, guest–host HA, thermosensitive HA	Mostly preclinical/research rather than aesthetic product brands
Hydrogels & Biomaterial Research	Non-HA biopolymer gels	gelatin, GelMA, alginate, oxidized alginate, chitosan, fibrin, PEG, PLGA/PEG	Mostly research; ARCHE*, CHITLAC*, Res Novae*
Biostimulatory Injectables	Engineered polymers	PLLA*, PDLLA*, PCL*, PLLA*, PMMA*, CaHA*, PDL*, PDO*	Sculptra (PLLA)*, Juvelook/Lenisna (PDLLA)*, Radiesse (CaHA)*, Ellansé (PCL)*, Bellafill (PMMA)*, Ellansé/Gouri (PDL)*, Ultracol (PDO)*,
PN*	PN/PDRN type regenerative injectables	PN*, PDRN*	Rejuran*, Plinest*, Nucleofill*
Cell therapies	Living or tissue-derived biologics	ADSCs, SVF, preadipocytes, lipoaspirate, adipocytes	Procedural/research, not typical off the shelf brands
Exosomes	Cell-free paracrine vesicles	EVs, exosomes, adipose-derived stem-cell exosomes / ASCEs	ASCE+*,
Growth factors & signaling molecules	Signals added to materials	VEGF, growth factors, dexamethasone, RGD peptide, lactoferrin-derived peptide, PRP/PRF	PRP/PRF systems*, not really brands in the same way
Product Forms	Physical format, not ingredient	hydrogel, sponge, foam, cryogel, microsphere, microgel, spheroid, 3D print, 4D construct, shape-memory scaffold	Mostly research formats

It seems like there was no category organization in the paper and I was confused on why some subsets were not actually part of others, like the contents of some felt like it should be included elsewhere. A lot of the categories are also not mutually exclusive. E.g it doesn't rally make sense why vascularization isn't present everywhere and why rheology has its own section. A vascularized HA scaffold with ADSCs and VEGF-loaded microspheres could simultaneously belong in 3.1.2, 3.1.3, 3.2.1, 3.2.3, and 3.4 depending on which feature you're really focusing on. So there's disconnect in taxonomy here imo. My guess is that the authors wrote the review by starting with certain literature they wanted to cover and then built the paper around that and included section headers and clusters from other papers which can be common in narrative reviews. It just can be hard to follow sometimes because it feels all over the place and like there's just overlap everywhere.

I do think the tables are actually really useful, especially if you don't feel like reading or just want to dig through it some other time. Or just solely for other DIY use and learnings.

Anyways, the way current facial volume restoration is, it relies primarily on either fat grafting, fillers, or face lift. Fat grafting has so many variables and not to mention that it's autologous and that quality is affected as you age. Injectable fillers provide volume, but they do not recreate living adipose tissue, ECM, or vascular networks. They also are technique dependent on results and throw in migration. Surgery is hella expensive and just not a reality for most people. Plasic surgeons already perform treatments based on detailed facial compartment anatomy. Biomaterial engineers, however, often design constructs as though all facial fat behaves the same and that's what the authors are identifying. The authors identify this as a major translational gap. Clinical interventions are compartment specific, but engineered materials generally are not.

The core concept of this paper is looking at facial fat as an engineering map for regenerative medicine. Biomaterials intended for superficial fat (jowls, nasolabial folds, etc) should be designed for that region and they also have greater risks of visible contour issues. So they should be soft, tolerate repetitive deformation, blend smoothly with surrounding tissue, and allow controlled spread within only the compartment boundaries. Deep compartments need biomaterials that are more structurally stable and serve as a foundational support structure. They need to maintain shape and projection, resist compression, support vascular integration, and provide actual durable structural support. These compartments also differ biologically in the actual adipose cells (fat cells). Deep compartments usually have smaller adipocytes than the superficial ones. Some compartments are high vascularized so this affects oxygen delivery, remodeling potential, and risk of fibrosis. Different compartments contain different collagen densities and fibrous structures which would require different stress dissipation or need to tolerate larger volumetric constraints.

Aging is compartment specific. Facial aging is not uniform and this is also something that can be really helpful to learn when wanting to address areas that may bother you. Some examples are that nasolabial and jowl fat may thicken or redistribute, deep medial cheek fat tends to atrophy and descend, superficial compartments usually shift position, the deep compartments usually lose volume. So these engineered materials also need to be addressing these different things. So what exactly do you do about that? The authors suggest biomaterials should be evaluated in a few different metrics specifically for these compartments. Beyond standard rheology, we should be testing confinement behavior, swelling pressure, directional mechanical properties, cyclic strain tolerance, edge displacement during facial animation, resistance to fibrosis, and pressure effects within bounded compartments. Why this is necessary is because facial tissues are in constant motion think about how much we speak, chew, smile, laugh, blink, etc.

Personally I think the authors are overly careful about the limitations. Their caveats are good callouts like most adipose engineering studies from from non-facial studies (we saw this in the PDRN study.) They see this compartment approach as evidence informed and not actually a validated clinical blueprint.

Shariati, Kaavian, et al. “Compartment-Informed Biomaterials for Facial Adipose Restoration.” Academia Materials Science, vol. 3, no. 2, Academia.edu Journals, 2026, doi:10.20935/AcadMatSci8370. https://www.academia.edu/2997-2027/3/2/10.20935/

This list is from Dr. Kimberly Madison, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, WCC, she is a Board-Certified, Doctorally-prepared Nurse Practitioner, educator, and author dedicated to advancing dermatology nursing education and research with an emphasis on skin of color. She founded Mahogany Dermatology Nursing, Education, and Research™.

Here is her instagram and published work.

I don't want to rephrase what she says, so am going to quote her and paste verbatim from the website. But I encourage you to read through the actual article as well. She also talks about her platform and improving access to dermatology. Along with different resources around this, so that's also why I wanted to amplify her.

https://www.mahoganydermatology.com/news/essential-textbooks-for-dermatology-in-skin-of-color

>I have spoken extensively about the lack of diversity in dermatology when it comes to data on nurse practitioners, medical education, faculty, medical images, pocket guides, point-of-care resources, clinical research, medical language, technology, marketing, and hands-on training models. While we still have lots of room for improvement, a significant amount of work has already been started. The incoming president of the American Academy of Dermatology, Dr. Susan Taylor, Founded the Skin of Color Society over twenty years ago. There are several dermatology organizations offering education, more to nurse practitioners (requiring an NPI to participate) than to nurses, but none are in existence, with initiatives solely focused on improving the lack of diversity in nursing education.

>Essential Textbooks for Dermatology in Skin of Color

>The field of dermatology has seen significant advancements in recent years, but one area that continues to demand attention is the study and understanding of skin of color in nursing education and training. Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are increasingly recognizing the importance of tailoring our knowledge and techniques to better serve patients with diverse skin tones. Unfortunately, there is a lack of diversity in dermatology which has been well documented, particularly in medicine. There is a paucity of data when it comes to dermatology nursing education leaving us to extrapolate data from other sources. In this article, I provide a list of medical textbooks focused on improving gaps in knowledge and practice when it comes to skin of color in medical (including pediatrics), surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

>Originally published December 2024. Edited Jan 2026 to reflect the needs of the members of the Alliance of Cosmetic Nurse Practitioners™ and based on the recommendations of our friends at the Skin of Color Society. We now include an email script and downloadable PDF to send to your nursing and NP schools, and to share with the creators of on-demand, online, and in-person cosmetic/aesthetic training programs.

>In this article, I’ve listed over 20+ medical and aesthetic dermatology textbooks. Notably, there are more textbooks, but many of them were published over ten years ago, and even still, there remains a paucity of medical textbooks dedicated to skin of color in wound care, and pediatric and cosmetic dermatology. At the time of this writing, there is only one book written for dermatology nursing education and the last edition was published in 2016 (see below). We don’t need separate books for every race and ethnicity. I would be the first to agree that skin of color education should be standardized in nursing curricula and training. But until those books are written, we have the ones listed here. Please email me additional resources that should be added to the list.

>The Value of Continuous Learning

>Nurse Practitioners must be aware of the many variations in skin of color, including differences in pigmentation patterns, vascular structures, and response to inflammation or injury. Without this knowledge, diagnostic errors and delays can occur, leading to disparities in treatment outcomes. As the patient population becomes increasingly diverse, it is essential for practicing and aspiring nurse practitioners to expand our educational resources. The textbooks presented here are invaluable for fostering a deeper understanding of the nuances of diagnosing and treating conditions across a spectrum of skin tones. They have the potential to not only bridge knowledge gaps but also serve as a step toward reducing disparities in dermatologic care. Equipping nurses and NPs with the tools and knowledge to serve all patients effectively contributes to a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. I thank you all for sharing with me how much you too desire access to this information.

>Access to Dermatology Textbooks

>You can access several dermatology textbooks on the McGraw Hill Access DermatologyDxRx website. (for free)

>‍Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color, Third Edition (2026). Accessible here.

>Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color, Third Edition, by Dr. Susan C. Taylor and Dr. Henry Lim, serves as the definitive textbook for the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of dermatologic conditions in patients of color. Moving beyond the focus of traditional texts, this comprehensive volume bridges the gap in medical literature by covering every aspect of skin science, from basic biology to clinical management. With over 1,000 full-color images and 105 detailed chapters, it equips providers with specialized advice on medical, surgical, and cosmetic options, while addressing critical modern topics such as health disparities, social determinants of health, and COVID-19.

>
Taylor and Elbuluk's Color Atlas and Synopsis for Skin of Color (2023). Accessible here. 

>Taylor and Elbuluk's Color Atlas and Synopsis for Skin of Color, 1st Edition by Dr. Susan C. Taylor and Dr. Nada Elbuluk, is an indispensable guide for recognizing dermatologic conditions across diverse skin tones. Designed to enhance diagnostic precision, the book highlights differences in disease presentation between lighter (Fitzpatrick Skin Types I–III) and darker skin types (IV–VI). With over 350 high-quality images, this atlas equips healthcare providers, from students to clinicians, with the tools to improve dermatologic care for patients of all skin types.

>
Dermatology for Skin of Color (2016). Accessible here for free.

>The second edition of Dermatology for Skin of Color by Dr. Susan C. Taylor, Dr. A. Paul Kelly, Dr. Henry Lim, and Dr. Ana Maria Anido Serrano is a pivotal resource for understanding dermatologic science and treatment for patients with pigmented skin. This edition features 21 new chapters and over 900 clinical images, covering a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

>Dr. Susan C. Taylor, a renowned dermatologist and the founder of the Skin of Color Society is a leader in advancing diversity and equity in dermatology. She is the Bernett L. Johnson, Jr., M.D. Professor and Vice Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Taylor will serve as the 84th President of the American Academy of Dermatology (2025–2026), making history as the first African American in this role. A Harvard Medical School graduate and expert in alopecia and pigmentary disorders, Dr. Taylor has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles and is passionate about mentorship and improving care for populations with skin color.

>
Dermatology for Black Skin - 1st Edition (2024). Accessible here.

>Dermatology for Black Skin - 1st Edition (2024), edited by Dr. Katleen da Cruz Conceição, Dr. Ana Carolina Galvão dos Santos de Araujo, and Dr. Leonardo Lora Barraza, represents an important milestone in understanding the unique clinical, structural, and physiological characteristics of Black skin. With contributions from renowned specialists, it covers pathologies from common conditions like acne and eczema to more complex diseases such as lupus and vitiligo. This pioneering work offers essential guidelines for management and treatment, contributing significantly to more equitable dermatological care in Brazil and abroad. Please note, this 1st edition is primarily available in Portuguese ("Dermatologia para Pele Negra").

>
Atlas of Pediatric Dermatology in Asian Skin (2024). Accessible here.

>Atlas of Pediatric Dermatology in Asian Skin, by Mark Jean Aan Koh, Emily Yiping Gan, and Lynette Wie Yi Wee, is an essential guide exploring pediatric dermatology with a focus on Asian skin. It delves into the physiological differences between Asian skin and other skin types and addresses a wide range of conditions, from neonatal dermatoses and atopic dermatitis to pigment disorders, vascular anomalies, and systemic disease indicators. The book also highlights dermatological procedures tailored for children, making it an invaluable resource for clinicians managing pediatric skin conditions in Asian populations.

>Procedures in Cosmetic Dermatology: Cosmetic Procedures in Skin of Color (2024). Accessible here.

>Procedures in Cosmetic Dermatology: Cosmetic Procedures in Skin of Color by Dr. Andrew F. Alexis is a practical guide for mastering safe and effective cosmetic techniques tailored to skin of color. With step-by-step instructions, high-quality visuals, and procedural videos, the book covers popular treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapies, fillers, and hair transplantation. It addresses specific concerns like melasma, hyperpigmentation, and keloids, offering evidence-based approaches for diverse skin types. A must-read for dermatology nurses and NPs committed to enhancing aesthetic care for all skin tones.

>Dr. Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH, is a renowned leader in dermatology, specializing in skin of color and advancing diversity in patient care, research, and education. He serves as Vice-Chair for Diversity and Inclusion and Professor of Clinical Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine. Formerly, he chaired dermatology at Mount Sinai Morningside and West, directing the groundbreaking Skin of Color Center for over 15 years. Currently, he serves on the Board of Directors of the American Dermatological Association and Cicatricial Alopecia Research Foundation, as well as Co-Chair of the Skin of Color Society’s Scientific Committee.Dr. Alexis holds an MD from Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons and an MPH from Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health. His dermatology training includes a residency at Weill Cornell Medicine and a dermatopharmacology fellowship at NYU Langone. He has authored over 90 peer-reviewed articles in journals like JAMA Dermatology and co-edited two textbooks, making significant contributions to dermatologic literature. His expertise spans pigmentary disorders, acne, alopecia, and cosmetic dermatology in patients of diverse backgrounds. As a sought-after speaker, he has delivered lectures globally and at prestigious academic institutions.

>GETTING to the ROOT: A Dermatologist’s and Cosmetologist’s Guide to Understanding HAIR! (2024). Accessible here. ‍

>GETTING to the ROOT: A Dermatologist’s and Cosmetologist’s Guide to Understanding HAIR! (2024) was written by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Chesahna Lenzy. This guide provides an in-depth yet accessible overview of 15 different types of hair loss and scalp disorders. The book details the symptoms, treatment procedures, and patient experiences for each condition. It is designed to empower both patients and professionals, including dermatologists, trichologists, and hair stylists, to better understand and collaboratively tackle complex hair loss issues.

>
Essentials for Aesthetic Dermatology in Ethnic Skin: Practice and Procedure (2023). Accessible here.

>Edited by by Mukta Sachdev and Niti Khunger this book is a practical ready-reference manual for any clinician performing cosmetic procedures on skin of color. It focuses on the critical nuances of pre-, intra-, and post-procedure care, emphasizing patient selection and the real-world challenges involved. With case-based discussions and comprehensive details on the use of devices on darker skin, this guide covers geo-ethnic skin types including Asian, Southeast Asian, African, and Hispanic populations.

>(I did not include the screenshot of this one as it felt NSFW)
Clinical Dermatology in Skin of Colour: Infections (2022). Accessible here.

>Dr. Ranthilaka R. Gammanpila's Clinical Dermatology in Skin of Colour: Infections delves into the unique presentations of over 30 common skin diseases in tropical regions and darker skin tones. This essential resource emphasizes conditions such as psoriasis, lichen planus, and erythrasma, highlighting their distinctive features in Fitzpatrick types V and VI. With 125 high-quality illustrations, the book equips dermatology trainees and practitioners with insights into tropical diseases like cutaneous tuberculosis and leishmaniasis, offering practical knowledge for diagnosing and managing infections in diverse clinical settings.

>Atlas of Dermatological Conditions in Populations of African Ancestry (2021). Accessible here.

The Atlas of Dermatological Conditions in Populations of African Ancestry (2021), authored by a team of physicians living and treating patients in Africa, including Drs. Claudia M.Y.A. Donkor and Andrew F. Alexis, presents the unique nuances of dermatology within the African diaspora and the tropics. It addresses not only how conditions present in darkly pigmented skin, but also how socioeconomic factors can influence skin diseases. Featuring hundreds of high-quality, real-patient photos, the book covers eczema, bullous diseases, hair disorders, and conditions with high prevalence in the region, such as skin bleaching complications and dermatological manifestations of HIV/AIDS.

>Dermoscopy in General Dermatology for Skin of Color (2021). Accessible here.

>Dermoscopy is a critical tool for evaluating dermatologic conditions, allowing for non-invasive, magnified visualization of the skin’s surface. While it has been extensively studied and utilized for patients with lighter skin tones, its application to skin of color presents unique challenges and considerations. In Dermoscopy in General Dermatology for Skin of Color, editors Enzo Errichetti and Aimilios Lallas bring together a wealth of knowledge from international experts. This highly illustrated text focuses on phototypes IV to VI, covering a diverse range of skin types, including subcontinental Asian, North African, South American, and African skin. The book offers practical insights and visual examples to enhance diagnostic accuracy for practitioners working with these populations.

>The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas (2021). Accessible here.

>The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas (2021), edited by Dr. Adam Friedman and Dr. Misty Eleryan, is a unique digital atlas designed to visually teach the diagnosis of skin conditions across a diverse range of skin tones. Featuring over 650 side-by-side images of more than 85 common dermatologic conditions, it provides a powerful comparative tool for health care practitioners. This atlas aims to advance education and diagnostic accuracy by providing clear imagery and expert commentary, making it an essential resource for any clinician committed to equitable care.

>Pediatric Dermatology in Skin of Color: A Practical Guide (2021). Accessible here. 

>Written by dermatology experts Dr. Manish K. Shah and Dr. Preeti K. Sheth, Pediatric Dermatology in Skin of Color: A Practical Guideemphasizes the clinical management of pediatric skin disorders prevalent in darker skin types. Drawing on their extensive experience, the authors provide a comprehensive manual blending evidence-based practices with hands-on insights. The book features detailed clinical descriptions, differential diagnosis techniques, and innovative treatment approaches, particularly in resource-limited settings. High-quality, original images throughout the text ensure clear visual references, making this guide an essential resource for clinicians navigating pediatric dermatology in diverse populations.

>Asian Skin: A Reference Colour Atlas of Dermatology and Venereology (2020). Accessible here.

Asian Skin: A Reference Colour Atlas of Dermatology and Venereology (2nd Edition), edited by A/Prof Chua Sze Hon, Prof Goh Chee Leok, Dr. Ng See Ket, and A/Prof Tan Suat Hoon, is a vital resource for understanding dermatoses in Asian populations. This edition updates over 95% of its original images and introduces eight new chapters, expanding on unique conditions such as the nevus of Ota/Ito and Hori’s nevus. With over 1,400 clinical and histological images, it is an indispensable tool for dermatology nurses and NPs treating patients of Asian descent.

>Multicultural Skin Treatments: Learn How to Effectively Treat Skin of Color by Combining Chemical Peels and Laser Treatments (2020). Accessible here.

JoElle Lee's Multicultural Skin Treatments: Learn How to Effectively Treat Skin of Color by Combining Chemical Peels and Laser Treatments is a practical guide for skincare professionals navigating the complexities of treating multicultural skin. Drawing from her extensive industry experience, Lee addresses the rising demand for cosmetic procedures among people of color, 80% of the global population. JoElle Lee, L.E., is a highly respected esthetician and educator with over 20 years of experience in skincare, specializing in treatments for multicultural skin. Formerly the personal esthetician to First Lady Michelle Obama, JoElle is the author of Multicultural Skin Treatments and Esthetician on a Mission. She is renowned for her expertise in chemical peels, corrective facials, and laser treatments for skin of color. JoElle also provides training and business coaching for estheticians, emphasizing effective marketing and innovative approaches to skincare. Her philosophy, “Beautiful Skin Begins Within,” drives her integrative methods.

>Hair and Scalp Disorders: Medical, Surgical, and Cosmetic Treatments, Second Edition (2018). Accessible here.

Leading experts, Dr. Amy J. McMichael and Dr. Maria K. Hordinsky, wrote Hair and Scalp Disorders: Medical, Surgical, and Cosmetic Treatments, Second Edition (2018) as a comprehensive guide to help you examine the treatment of hair and scalp disorders with a special emphasis on how hair type, morphology, and ethnicity can impact disease and treatment. This second edition is updated with new chapters on dermoscopy, technology integration in clinical practice, and aging hair, making it an essential resource for any practitioner managing complex hair conditions.

>Pigmentary Skin Disorders (2018). Accessible here.

>Pigmentary Skin Disorders, edited by Prasad Kumarasinghe, MD, is a specialized volume in the Updates in Clinical Dermatology series, focusing on diagnosing and managing pigmentary disorders, particularly in skin of color. This text bridges the gap in standard dermatology resources by addressing evolving research and innovative treatments. Key topics include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, drug-induced pigmentation, and laser treatments. Written by international experts, the book combines practical insights with summaries of the latest advancements, offering clinicians a structured guide for improving patient outcomes in pigmentary dermatology.

>Pigmented Ethnic Skin and Imported Dermatoses: A Text-Atlas (2018). Accessible here.

>Edited by Constantin E. Orfanos, Christos C. Zouboulis, and Chalid Assaf, Pigmented Ethnic Skin and Imported Dermatoses: A Text-Atlasoffers a comprehensive examination of skin diseases in dark-skinned populations, focusing on those common in tropical and subtropical regions. It addresses conditions emerging globally due to migration and travel, with expert insights on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of these disorders. Featuring high-quality images, this book is a vital resource for practicing and aspiring nurses and NPs treating patients with diverse skin types across varying clinical contexts.

>Dermatoanthropology of Ethnic Skin and Hair (2017). Accessible here.

>Dermatoanthropology of Ethnic Skin and Hair, edited by Neelam A. Vashi, MD, and Howard I. Maibach, MD, is a comprehensive guide dedicated to understanding skin and hair conditions in persons of color. Featuring 26 chapters, it integrates medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with anthropological insights and basic science. Topics include skin structure, pigmentation, common disorders like acne and keloids, and cultural considerations in treatment. This resource equips clinicians with tools to diagnose and manage diverse dermatologic conditions effectively, emphasizing the nuances of ethnic skin and hair.‍

>Dermatologic Nursing Essentials: A Core Curriculum (2016). Accessible here.

>Dermatologic Nursing Essentials: A Core Curriculum, Third Edition by Dr. Noreen Nicol, offers a comprehensive guide for nurses in dermatology, blending clinical care expertise with certification preparation. This official publication of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association highlights core concepts like anatomy, physiology, and patient-centered care. It covers a broad range of skin conditions, effective treatments, and patient education strategies. Featuring nearly 400 color images, outlines, and review materials, this resource is an essential reference for dermatology nurses and allied health professionals aiming to provide top-tier skin care.

Clinical Cases in Skin of Color: Adnexal, Inflammation, Infections, and Pigmentary Disorders (2016). Accessible here.

>Edited by Dr. Porcia B. Love and Dr. Roopal V. Kundu, Clinical Cases in Skin of Color: Adnexal, Inflammation, Infections, and Pigmentary Disorders focuses on the top dermatological conditions encountered in patients with skin of color. Through real-world clinical cases, it highlights distinctive presentations of diseases in darker skin tones, providing critical diagnostic and management strategies. The text integrates cultural considerations and clinical pearls, empowering clinicians to deliver patient-centered care. With the growing population of individuals with skin of color, this book addresses essential educational needs in dermatology training and practice.

>
Pediatric Skin of Color (2015). Accessible here.

>Edited by Nanette B. Silverberg, Carola Durán-McKinster, and Yong-Kwang Tay, Pediatric Skin of Color is the first textbook dedicated to the unique dermatological needs of pediatric patients with skin of color. This comprehensive resource covers the biology of skin, common skin conditions, and systemic diseases that manifest with skin involvement, with a focus on populations such as African American, Asian, Hispanic/Latino, Middle Eastern, and Indigenous communities. The text serves as a crucial reference for Dermatology nurses and NPs and pediatric clinicians treating diverse patient groups.

>
Dermatology Atlas for Skin of Color (2014). Accessible here.

>Dermatology Atlas for Skin of Color, 2014th Edition by Dr. Diane Jackson-Richards and Dr. Amit G. Pandya is an essential resource for understanding dermatologic conditions in ethnic skin. Featuring over 300 color photos, the atlas highlights disorders prevalent in skin of color, including pigmentary and follicular disorders, eczemas, granulomatous diseases, and more. Each chapter provides concise explanations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment insights. Its global relevance makes it an invaluable reference for dermatologists and healthcare providers dedicated to equitable care for diverse populations.

>
African Skin and Hair Disorders, An Issue of Dermatologic Clinics (2014). Accessible here.
‍
Author, Dr. Nonhlanhla P Khumalo, wrote African Skin and Hair Disorders, An Issue of Dermatologic Clinics (2014) which is part of a highly respected Dermatologic Clinics series that focuses on the most common skin and hair disorders seen in people of African ancestry. It features articles on acne scarring, alopecia, keloids, and skin pigmentation, while also addressing practical topics like moisturizers and the effects of hair treatments. Critically, the text also discusses sociohistoric issues that can cloud scientific understanding, making a clear distinction between race as a social construct and quantifiable entities like pigment and hair curl as determinants for disease.

>
Living Color: The Biological and Social Meaning of Skin Color (2012). Accessible here.
‍
Written by renowned anthropologist Nina G. Jablonski, Living Color: The Biological and Social Meaning of Skin Color (2012), is the first book to investigate the social history of skin color from prehistory to the present. Jablonski begins with the biology and evolution of skin pigmentation and explores how this visible trait has come to hold such profound social meaning. For the conscientious NP, this text is an invaluable resource for understanding the cultural and historical context of skin color, which is foundational to eliminating color-based discrimination and providing truly patient-centered care.

>
Textbook of Laser and Light Dermatology in the Asian Skin (2011). Accessible here.

>Edited by Dr. Yong-Kwang Tay and Dr. Yuin-Chew Chan, the Textbook of Laser and Light Dermatology in the Asian Skin (2011) addresses the unique challenges and considerations of performing laser and light-based procedures on Asian skin. Given the higher risk of complications like scarring and pigmentary changes in darker skin types, this guide is an essential resource. With contributions from clinicians who have extensive experience treating Asian skin, the book offers effective treatment paradigms and crucial advice on managing complications, making it invaluable for dermatologists and aesthetic NPs.

>Conclusion

>As dermatology continues to evolve, so must our perspectives and approaches. With resources like these, we can take another step forward in honoring the diversity of our patients and the unique challenges they face. Let us expand our perspectives, enrich our practice, and embrace the opportunity to provide truly comprehensive care for all patients.

>About the Author

>Dr. Kimberly Madison, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, WCC, is a Board-Certified, Doctorally-prepared Nurse Practitioner, educator, and author dedicated to advancing dermatology nursing education and research with an emphasis on skin of color. As the founder of Mahogany Dermatology Nursing | Education | Research™ and the Alliance of Cosmetic Nurse Practitioners™, she expands access to dermatology research, business acumen, and innovation while also leading professional groups and mentoring clinicians. Through her engaging and informative social media content and peer-reviewed research, Dr. Madison empowers nurses and healthcare professionals to excel in dermatology and improve patient care.

>

This study looks at PDRN and human pre-adipocytes. Basically does PDRN change pre-adipocyte behavior, and what does that imply for adipose-derived regeneration?

This paper is relevant to regenerative aesthetics because PN/PDRN is most often discussed in the context of microneedling, mesotherapy, skin quality, wound healing, and collagen support. However, facial aging is not solely a dermal process. Changes in adipose tissue contribute significantly to age related facial volume loss, contour changes, and structural support. If PN/PDRN influences adipose-derived cells in addition to dermal cells, its role in regenerative aesthetics may be broader than improving skin quality alone.

First off, putting this at the top in case anyone does not know.

What are adipocytes: Adipocytes (commonly known as fat cells) are the primary cells that make up adipose tissue. Their main job is to store energy in the form of lipids (fat), provide structural cushioning, and act as an endocrine organ by releasing hormones that regulate metabolism and inflammation. In the context of the face, adipocytes play a massive role in both facial contour and the aging process. They are organized into distinct, highly specialized compartments separated by fibrous tissue (ligaments).

What are pre-adipocytes: Pre-adipocytes are specialized precursor cells in your body that develop and mature into fat cells (adipocytes). They act as a self-renewing reserve pool within connective and adipose tissues, actively proliferating and differentiating to replace old fat cells or accommodate new energy storage demands.

What is pre-adipocyte behavior: Pre-adipocytes are immature precursor cells that reside within adipose tissue and primarily exhibit fibroblast-like behavior. Their fundamental behavioral trait involves proliferating to increase the progenitor pool and, upon appropriate physiological and hormonal signaling, undergoing adipogenesis to differentiate into mature, lipid-storing fat cells.

What is adipogenesis: Adipogenesis is the biological process by which stem cells differentiate into mature fat cells (adipocytes). It is highly regulated by hormones and genes and plays a critical role in energy storage, metabolic homeostasis, and regulating body weight. In the context of the face, this process dictates the formation, maintenance, and volume of the fat pads that provide your face with its contours and youthful fullness.

Okay back to the study!

The authors discuss two plausible pathways for nucleotides/nucleosides. Nucleic-acid salvage pathways and purinergic receptor signaling, especially P1/P2 receptors. It discuss both nucleic-acid salvage pathways and purinergic receptor signaling, suggesting that PDRN may influence cell behavior through metabolic and signaling mechanisms. I've had this paper saved because it demonstrated something in 2008 that should have fundamentally expanded how PN/PDRN was studied and something that regenerative medicine has still not fully explored. The authors showed that PDRN increased proliferation of human adipose-derived pre-adipocytes, yet most of the research that followed focused on wound healing, fibroblasts, angiogenesis, skin quality, corneal repair, bone regeneration, and inflammation rather than adipose tissue biology.

The study took human lipoaspirate-derived pre-adipocytes, treated them with PDRN, and observed increased proliferation across multiple measurements, including cell counts, MTT assays, DNA quantification, Ki-67 expression, and mitotic activity, especially in later-passage cells. PDRN was not simply behaving like a skin booster in this model (another reason I why I call them boosters and not skin boosters), but it appeared to act on cells that sit upstream of adipose tissue regeneration. The cells being studied were not fibroblasts or dermal cells. They were adipose-derived pre-adipocytes isolated from lipoaspirate. In this study, the observed effects were occurring in adipose-lineage cells. Despite these findings, relatively little adipose-focused research followed. This paper should have opened a full research track investigating PDRN/PN as an adipose-regenerative signal. This paper is from 2008 and instead, most later work stayed in wound healing, fibroblasts, angiogenesis, skin quality, cornea, bone, and inflammation. Modern reviews emphasize PDRN’s adenosine A2A receptor activity, salvage-pathway support, VEGF signaling, angiogenesis, and tissue repair, but relatively little work has examined how these mechanisms operate within adipose tissue or whether they influence adipose regeneration in vivo.

Analytically, the study is small and incomplete, but reducing it to a simple proliferation study misses an important point. The cells being studied were human adipose-derived pre-adipocytes. PDRN increased proliferative activity within the adipogenic lineage itself. It proves increased proliferation markers in cultured pre-adipocytes. What the study does not tell us is whether increased pre-adipocyte proliferation ultimately results in greater adipocyte differentiation, adipose tissue maintenance, or tissue regeneration. The paper gives info on part of the process, but not a complete mechanism for the biological process. Although that piece is important because facial fat aging is not just volume loss. Facial adipose tissue is biologically active, compartment specific, vascular dependent, inflammatory sensitive, and tied to dermal support. Later facial aging literature increasingly frames facial fat as functional tissue.

The authors overlooked that they did not deeply explore what this means for adipose regeneration or volumization biology. This paper showed pre-adipocyte proliferation and that is part of adipogenic biology, there should have been more studies looking at every stage of adipocyte development. Since pre-adipocytes/adipose-derived stromal cells are relevant to fat tissue repair, this paper supports the idea that PDRN could influence adipose progenitor expansion, not only fibroblast/dermal skin quality. There should already be studies on PDRN/PN tested as a fat graft adjunct, a preadipocyte/ADSC expansion tool, and a subcutaneous regenerative volumization agent. The only thing that's been somewhat close is a 2023 report using PN injections for iatrogenic facial fat atrophy, suggesting possible volume restoration after fat loss, but this is still early and not enough to define mechanism or predictable outcomes. And it's such a small sample size. There's also two other studies that kind of touch on this (I'll discuss later) but studied different things, e.g one found that PDRN may change adipocyte phenotype/metabolism depending on the model and the other was another under eye study.

The paper may have identified an early bridge between nucleotide-based regenerative signaling and adipose tissue biology. But like it's almost two decades later and it's still under explored and we have not had extensive research looking into the whether PN influences the biology of facial fat itself instead of only looking at skin quality. Hopefully.... there will be more research around this.

I think the surface morphology of these PLA biostimulators is really interesting. And can help you make decisions (whether that's DIY or getting it done professionally.)

This is also why I predict why Juvelook has been studied on its use with microneedling. Because of the particle size, shape, symmetry, and behavior. Its particles are uniform macro spheres and one of the smallest particle sizes.

>
Abstract

>Introduction: Polylactic acid can be classified into poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA) according to their stereoisomeric structures, and both are widely used as dermal fillers for soft tissue augmentation. Although the clinical efficacy of commercially available PLLA- and PDLLA-based fillers has been well established, variations in their physicochemical properties may lead to differences in handling characteristics and clinical performance. A systematic comparison of these properties among different PLA-based fillers remains limited. Materials and Methods: In this study, the physicochemical characteristics of three PDLLA-based fillers (AestheFill, NeoFilera, and Juvelook) and one PLLA-based filler (Sculptra) were evaluated. The analyses included functional group identification, particle morphology and size distribution observation, reconstitution time measurement, osmotic pressure determination, and viscosity assessment. Results: AestheFill and NeoFilera exhibited similar profiles in terms of functional groups, size distribution, osmotic pressure, and viscosity, while NeoFilera and Juvelook showed comparable particle morphologies. Sculptra displayed distinct particle morphology and viscosity, likely attributable to its PLLA composition, yet showed similarities with Juvelook in functional group identification and osmotic pressure. Additionally, the reconstitution times of Sculptra, NeoFilera, and Juvelook were significantly shorter than that of AestheFill. Conclusions: Although the direct correlation between physicochemical characteristics and clinical outcomes warrants further investigation, this comparative analysis provides clinicians with a clearer understanding of the material properties of PLA-based dermal fillers and may assist in the informed selection of appropriate products for individual patients.

>Keywords:

> polylactic acid;  poly(L,-lactic acid);  poly(D,L-lactic acid) acid;  dermal filler;  carboxymethyl cellulose;  hyaluronic acid;  soft tissue augmentation

Su C-Y, Chang Y-C, Cheng P-J, Fang H-W. Comparative Physicochemical Characterization of Polylactic Acid-Based Dermal Fillers. Polymers. 2026; 18(1):84. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18010084

Hey gang,

I'm working on a more in depth booster guide, but for the sake of people wanting more information on what is safe to microneedle with I figured I'd make a cheat sheet that just lists products out.

The goal is to include each ones manufacturer, quality/contains, main ingredients, and manufacturing guides. There's more that can be added, like I'm sure I missed some and also this list will be updated from time to time.

The HA mini guide is located here (everything on that list is safe for microneedling)

A-Z List:
Aestacell Bella Skin Booster 🩷
AIOR 50 🩵
Ameela Exosomes 💚
Ami NAD+ Skin Booster 🩵
Ami Peptox 💚
Ami Tone Up 💚
Ammi Capture Time Premium 🩷
ASCE+ HRLV: Info. 👱‍♀️💚🤍(maybe 🍒)
ASCE+ IRLV 🤍🍒
ASCE+ SRLV: Study on efficacy here 💚🤍(maybe 🍒)
BCN Amino Acids 💜
BCN Argireline 💜
BCN Asian Centella 💜
BCN Base 💜
BCN Biotin 💜
BCN Dexpanthenol Provitamin B5 💜
BCN DMAE 💜💚
BCN ECQ10 💜
BCN Glutathione 600 💜
BCN HA 0.8% 💜
BCN HA 2% 💜
BCN HA 3% 💜
BCN Melano 💜
BCN Organic Silica & DMAE 💜
BCN Scalp 👱‍♀️💜
BCN Tensis Peptides 💜
BCN Vitamin A 💜
BCN Vitamin C 💜
Bijunel Rejuvero 🤍
Camellia EXO NO5 (contains exosomes and pdrn)
Caratfill Skin Booster 🩵
Celosome Aqua 🩵🤍🍒
Croma PhilArt Polyphil 💜💚🍒
CU Restore (ghk-cu booster): Info here💚
Curenex: Manufacturing info here 🩵🩷🖤🤍
Cytocare 532 💜
Cytocare 640 💜🍒
Cytocare 715 💜🍒
Dermaheal Dark Circle Solution 🩷💜🍒
Dermaheal Eyebag Solution  🩷💜🍒
Dermaheal HL  👱‍♀️💜
Dermaheal HSR  🩷💜
Dermaheal SB  🩷💜
Dermaheal SR: here 🩷💜
Dermaqual Ascorbix 20 💚
Dermaqual Dermaeclat 💚
Dermaqual DQ HA35 Hyaluronic Acid 💚
Dermaqual DQ Hair 👱‍♀️💚
Dermaqual EGF Genesis 💚
Dermaqual GSH + C1000 💚
Dermaqual Mesoglow 💚
Dermaqual Nefertiti Lift 💚
Dermaqual Rejuveyes 💚
Ejal40 💜
Elare PN Red Pro 🩷
Elaxen HA-PN 💚
Elaxen PN 💚🤍
Exoblanc COS BR 💚
Exoblanc COS CR 💚
Exoblanc COS ECM 💚
Exoblanc COS Exo 💚
Exoblanc COS PN 💚
Exosia 01
Exo Lume 🤍
Exom-Rejuvenation Face 103 💜🍒
Exotriple (pdrn + exosomes + collagen + peptides)
Exoxe: Manufacturing info here🤍
Filcore P198 ExoHealer SB Plus: here(maybe 🍒)
Gana Booster-V 🩵
Hair Luma 👱‍♀️🤍
Hairna Exosome Hair Fill 🩵🍒
Hanheal Exosome Facial Rejuvenation 🩵
Hanheal HA Ampoule
Hanheal Hair Filler 👱‍♀️🩵
Hanheal NAD+ Complex 🩷
Hanheal PDRN Booster 🩷
Hi on: More info 🤍
Hyalace
Hyaron: 🩵🖤🤍
Hyby (PDRN 1%) 🤍
iLLUMA Crystal Rose 🩵💜
iLLUMA Hydro Booster: 🩵
iLLUMA Luna: 🩵
iLLUMA NAD+ Skin Booster 💚(maybe 🍒)
iLLUMA PN: Manufacturer info here
Inno-tds HA: Manufacturer info here 💜
Inno-tds DNA Pept-HA 💜
Inno-tds Face-Nade 💜🍒 *(lipolytic so needs to be targeted to chin/*jaw)
Inno-tds Fill Up 💜
Inno-tds Firming 💜
Inno-tds Hair Loss Control 👱‍♀️💜
Inno-tds Hair Vital 👱‍♀️💜
Inno-tds Matrix 💜
Inno-tds Restructurer 💜
Inno-tds Vitamin Complex 💜
Jalupro Amino Acid 💜
Jalupro HMW 💜🍒
Jalupro Super Hydro inj. 💜🍒
Jalupro Young Eye 💜🍒
Jeunetique Exo: Manufacturing info here🩵
Jeunetique Exo hair: Info here👱‍♀️🩵
Jeunetique NAD+: Info here🩵
Jeunetique PN Pro: Info here🩵🍒
Jeunetique Eyes Pro: Info here🩵🍒
Juvelook: Research here (PDLLA) 🖤 (if wanting volume 🍒)
Juveface 🩵🍒
Juveheal A 🍒
Juveheal B
Juveheal W
Juveheal V
Kiara Reju: Manufacturing info here 🩵🩷🖤🤍
Lapuroon Aurora Super 🖤🤍
Lapuroon Aurora Vivid 🖤🤍
Lemon Bottle Skin Booster (please note this is not the lipolytic one) 🩷
Linerase Hydro 💜
Lumi Eyes 💜🍒
Lumi Eyes Pro 💜🍒
LUMI-Pro Skin Booster 💜 (maybe 🍒)
LUMI-Pro Lip Booster 💜🍒
Lumi-Meso Bright 💚
Lumi-Meso Elite 💚
Lumi-Meso Tos 💚
Lumi Pro Skin Booster 💚
Mayster HA Booster
Mayster PDRN
Metoo Healer PDRN Booster
Melsmon:  🩵
Mesoestetic cprof 213 Mesotox Soloution 💚
Mesoestetic cprof 214 Mesopeptide Solution 💚
Mesoestetic cprof 230 Meso Hair Loss Solution 👱‍♀️💚
Mesoheal PINK GLOW 💚🍒
Misfill+ Baby Face:  🤍
Misfill+ PDRN 🤍
Misfill+ Vital 🤍
Miracle Touch BR 🩵🩷🤍
NAD Luma
NCTF 135 HA: Manufacturing info here 💜 (depends 🍒)
Neofound:  (vial not serum) 💜🍒
Neogenesis Exonovue 🩷
Newest:  💜💚🍒
Newest One:  💜💚🍒
Nucleofill:  💜💚🍒
Placentex:   🍒
Plenyhage: More info 💜💚🍒
Plinest:  💜💚🍒
Pluryal Mesoline Hair 💜(maybe🍒)
Pluryal Mesoline Refresh 💜(maybe🍒)
Pluryal Mesoline Shine 💜 (maybe🍒)
Pluryal Mesoline Tight 💜 (maybe🍒)
Porzellan  
Profhilo H&L:  🩵💜💚🍒
Profhilo Structura:  🩵💜💚🤍🍒
Profhilo Body Kit:  🩵💜💚🍒
PRX-Plus 💜
Puri Heal Glow  🖤
Puri Heal Lucent   🖤
Puri Heal Revital NAD+ 🖤
Puri PDRN:  🩵🖤
Radieux+ PLLA:  (SLM)
Radieux+ PN:  (SLM)
Radieux+ Pro 68:     (SLM)
Recell PDRN Skin Booster 🤍
Redensity 1: recent research with burn care 🍒
Regenovue Aqua Shine Silver 🩷🤍
Regenovue PN 🩵🩷🤍
Reglory NAD+ NMN: Manufacturer info here🩷
Reglory PN Plus 🩷
Rejuran Skin Booster:  💚
Rejuran Synergy Skin Booster 💚
Rejuran Tone Up Booster:  🖤💚
Rejuran (PN): Video on the four types here🍒 (sold out in a lot of places currently)
Rejuva Healer:   
Rejuva re:face:    
Rejuvenex Hydro Essence (SLM)
Rejuvenex Forte (SLM)
Rejuvenex Vega Shine (SLM)
Revitalex 🩵
REVS RMT 140HPn 🖤
REVS PRO 32 🍒
Remedium Aqua plus 💜(prob 🍒)
Remedium Silk Exosome 💜
Remedium PDRN 💜(maybe 🍒)
Richesse EXO19 💚
RRS HA Eyes 💜(maybe 🍒)
RRS HA injectable 💚(maybe 🍒)
RRS Hyalift 75 PROactive 💜(maybe 🍒)
S-DNA
SAPPHIRE PDRN 🤍
SAPPHIRE S TOX 🤍
Selastin Exo Plus 🩵
Selastin Tox 🩵🤍
Selatox 10 🩵🩷
Seventy Hyal 💜(prob 🍒)
Syniro PDRN: Manufacturing info here🤍
Soonsu Ultra Reju: Manufacturing info here 🩵🩷🤍
Soonsu Ultra White:  🩵🩷🤍
SOSUM Stem Cells Activator 🤍(prob 🍒)
Sunekos 1200 💜🍒
Ultra Hair 👱‍♀️🩵
Ultragen X 🤍
V – Tech Serum 💜🍒
Velash Exo Plus 🩵
Velash SHGF11 🩵
Velatox: Manufacturing info here 🩵🩷
Vita NAD+   🩷
Vitaderm 60  
VODA DERM NMN System  🤍
White Lumi  🍒
Youthfill PN 🩵
2Xsome 🖤🤍

Everything on this list is safe for microneedling.

👱‍♀️ = for the hair/scalp
🩵 = Meamo  
🩷 = Get Glowing Skincare  
💜 = Wimpole    
🤍 = Celmade
🖤 = FO
💚 = LPG
🍒 = Would prob meso over microneedle

TBD on it's use for microneedling, but safe for meso/deeper depths
Adite 🍒
Arche 🍒
Chitogenix 🍒
Chitoink 🍒
Collafilo 🍒
Collaju 🍒
Collapleo 🍒
Collareju 🩵🍒
Conjuran: More info 🍒
Eve Nova 🍒
Glyceollins Re:New 🍒
Gouri  🩵💜🤍🍒
HarmonCA  💜🍒
Karisma: more info and research 💜🍒
Laetigen 🩵🍒
Linerase Collagen Powder 💜🍒
Manla Kar 🍒
Neauvia Organic Hydro Deluxe   💜🍒
Polydio   🍒
Purasomes IRC100+:  💚🍒
Puri COLL rh:  🩵🖤🍒
Radiesse   💜🍒
Renuva: more info 💜🍒
Res Novae Crystal Plus 🍒
Sculptra   💜🍒
Tesoro Collagen   🖤🍒
Ultra CA+   🍒
Ultra Coll   🍒
VODA DERM RH Matrix   🤍🍒
Volassom   🍒

If you’ve never heard of the 618 Sale, it’s one of the biggest online shopping events in China, prob similar to Black Friday or Prime Day, but focused on Chinese marketplaces and manufacturers.

The sale officially centers around June 18, but discounts often start weeks earlier. Many suppliers offer lower prices, coupons, bundle deals, and reduced shipping costs during this period.

Many of the devices, consumables, and supplies used throughout the aesthetics industry are manufactured in China regardless of where they’re ultimately purchased, so 618 can be a good opportunity to compare pricing and stock up on essentials.

For those of us who purchase professional and aesthetics supplies from China, 618 can be a good time to stock up on things like microneedling pens, cartridges, syringes, mesotherapy supplies, blunt tip needles or filters, skincare devices, and other consumables. Also worth looking into storage containers/drawers or treatment trays.

As always, compare prices before buying. Not every sale is a true discount, but 618 is one of the few times each year when many suppliers run their deepest promotions.

If you’ve been waiting to place an order, now is a good time to check pricing and see if your usual suppliers are participating.

Thought this was interesting so wanted to share! Beyond the new use for PDLLA, I think this can add an interesting pov for hair research now.

The study is not just saying hair got better after injections. But, I feel like there's actually a bigger connection here, the scalp is being treated as a biologically modifiable tissue environment, not merely a surface where follicles either exist or do not exist.

It's also possible that the existing follicles become more productive. PDLLA may be improving the output of compromised follicles, rather than creating entirely new follicular structures. I think this makes the visual improvement easier to understand, thicker-appearing hair, better coverage, less scalp show-through, etc. PDLLA does not primarily target follicular signaling directly. It appears to modify the surrounding tissue environment, which secondarily changes follicular behavior.

This might seem like just a small pilot study testing PDLLA injections for non-scarring alopecia. But beneath that, it's part of a broader movement in medicine away from directly targeting symptoms and toward altering the tissue environment itself.  I'd look at this paper on where research is headed. The study suggests a plausible regenerative mechanism, not definitive proof of one. The real significance of this paper may not be that PDLLA is proven as a standalone hair loss therapy, but that it gives clinical form to a broader idea of non-scarring alopecia may be partly reversible through remodeling the perifollicular tissue environment, even without directly suppressing androgen signaling.

>Abstract

> Background: PDLLA demonstrates angiogenic and regenerative properties that may support hair regrowth by enhancing perifol- licular perfusion. Objective: To evaluate clinical improvement after PDLLA scalp microinjection in 20 patients using standardized pho- tography and Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) rated by two independent physicians.

>Methods: Twenty adults with non scarring alopecia received PDLLA scalp microinjections at baseline and week 4 (optional booster at week 8). Optional light microneedling priming (0.5–0.8 mm) was performed immediately before PDLLA injection in 14/20 patients to facilitate distribution. Primary endpoint was physician rated GAIS at week 12; secondary endpoints included patient GAIS and safety. Images were acquired with fixed camera to scalp distance and lighting. Results: Physician GAIS improved in 90% of patients at week 12 (mean ±SD 3.3 ±0.6) and was maintained at week 24 (3.1 ±0.7). Patient reported GAIS was 3.2 ±0.7 at week 12. No serious adverse events occurred.

>Conclusions: In this pilot uncontrolled case series, PDLLA scalp microinjections were associated with physician–rated GAIS im- provement over 12–24 weeks with favorable short–term tolera- bility. Given the subjective endpoint, the absence of a compara- tor arm, and optional microneedling priming in a subset of pa- tients, the findings are preliminary and require confirmation in controlled studies with objective trichologic measurements and longer follow–up. 

>Keywords: Alopecia; Microneedling; Poly‑D,L‑lactic acid; Scalp injection.

>Conflict of interest statement: The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to disclose.