Study on Keratin Gel and Neck Wrinkles
Introduction to Wrinkles and Their Causes
A recent publication in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology evaluated the potential of keratin gel derived from hair to diminish neck wrinkles. Wrinkles signify physical aging, arising from improper repair of damaged elastic and collagen fibers. When a person expresses emotions such as smiling or frowning, these fibers undergo breakdown and regeneration. Over time, some fibers are substituted with longer collagen fibers, causing certain skin areas to become looser while others stiffen, ultimately leading to wrinkle formation.
Current Treatments for Wrinkles
Various procedures aim to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, including laser therapy, surgical interventions, and filler injections. Autogenous tissue grafts have gained traction due to their minimal side effects and enduring results. However, these treatments often involve invasive techniques and can be costly.
The Role of Keratin in Skin Treatment
Keratin is a fibrous structural protein found in the outer layer of skin, hair, horns, and claws. Research has demonstrated the high biocompatibility and low biodegradation of keratin in animal models, making it a candidate for cosmetic applications.
The Study’s Methodology and Findings
Conducted in China, the study investigated the efficacy of keratin in enhancing the appearance of neck wrinkles. Researchers collected autologous cultured skin cells from healthy volunteers and combined them with keratin gel extracted from their hair. This mixture was then injected into the neck wrinkles of 25 participants, while five others received hyaluronic acid as a control treatment. Participants were monitored over a two-year period.
The results were promising, as the keratin gel treatment significantly improved the visibility of neck wrinkles without severe complications. The observed changes persisted for two years and were markedly more pronounced than those seen in the control group.
Conclusion and Future Implications
The researchers concluded that injecting a combination of keratin gel and skin cells into wrinkle sites offers a long-term repair effect. This innovative approach may represent a new method for soft tissue filler applications in reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Written by Neeti Vashi, BSc
Reference: Wang, Yue, et al. “New soft tissue filler derived from autologous keratin and fibroblast for neck wrinkles.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2017).