12-month effects of stabilized hyaluronic acid gel compared with saline for rejuvenation of aging hands.
In this evaluator-blind, placebo-controlled study, microinjections of stabilized hyaluronic acid (HA) gel for rejuvenation of aging hands were evaluated. Patients received three injections of 1.0 ml HA gel (20 mg/ml HA) in the dorsum of one hand and 1.0 ml saline in the other, over 3 months (M). Treatments were compared up to M03; comparisons with Day 1 (D01) were made up to M05 and M12 (extension study). Efficacy was evaluated by patients and investigators using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Self-assessment questionnaires, biomechanical measurements, and adverse events (AEs) were analyzed. Thirty women (mean age: 53 years) provided data up to M05. At M03, HA gel treatment improved hand skin condition in all patients versus D01, according to the GAIS; improvements were sustained to M12. Mean patient scores at M01-M03 were significantly higher for HA gel than for saline (P<0.05). Self-assessment questionnaire grades up to M03 were generally significantly better for HA gel versus saline (P<0.05); grades were maintained to M12. Statistically significant improvements with HA gel in hydration and elasticity was demonstrated at M03, compared with D01 and saline (P<0.05), and in terms of skin roughness versus D01. Maximum roughness (P<0.05) and waviness (P<0.01) were significantly improved versus saline. All AEs were mild and anticipated, with no serious AEs. Overall, HA gel injections were generally well tolerated and efficacious for rejuvenation of aging hands compared with saline. Sustained improvements at 12 months compared with baseline indicate that efficacy could be maintained long term.