The Clinical Study of Poly-D, L-Lactic Acid (PDLLA) Biostimulator Injection for Improving Facial Rejuvenation Markers in Young Thai Individuals

Abstract

Background: Aging is an inescapable and complex biological phenomenon that affects the skin, leading to changes such as wrinkles, sagging, pigmentation irregularities, and decreased elasticity. The latest trend in biostimulators has had a significant impact on facial rejuvenation, with poly-D, L-lactic acid (PDLLA) standing out. However, clinical trials on its long-term effects and safety remain limited, especially in Thailand.

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of PDLLA injection in young Thai individuals for facial rejuvenation.

Materials and Method: In this quasi-experimental design, fifteen participants with mild to moderate facial aging signs enrolled at Mae Fah Luang University Hospital Asoke, Bangkok, Thailand. Each participant underwent subdermal PDLLA injections over a six-month period. Skin quality was evaluated at baseline and at 2, 4, and 6 months using validated instruments that measured eight facial rejuvenation parameters including sebum level, elasticity, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), spots, pores, wrinkles and texture. The study also evaluated the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), patient satisfaction scores and any treatment-related side effects.

Results: All 15 participants showed significant improvement in elasticity, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss, pore size, and wrinkles from baseline to 6 months (p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed in sebum levels, spots, or texture. Mild skin erythema was observed in only one case (6.67%), which was spontaneously reversible over time.

Conclusion: Our study shows that PDLLA offers promising results for facial rejuvenation and can be an alternative for skin aging prevention, especially in young individuals, with no serious side effects when proper injection and reconstitution techniques are followed.