RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Photoaging is the process by which ultraviolet rays gradually induce clinical and histological changes in the skin through the production and organization of biological molecules, such as elastin, which is critical to skin strength and elasticity. After exposure to radiation, elastin may undergo alternative mRNA splicing, resulting in modified proteins that contribute to the formation of aging characteristics, such as solar elastosis. The present work aimed to study two different forms of elastin under these conditions: normal elastin and elastin that had been altered in exon 26A. METHODS: These different forms of elastin were characterized for gene expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and for protein expression by immunohistochemistry of ex vivo skins (from photoexposed and non-photoexposed areas) and in vitro reconstituted skin. In addition, up- and downstream molecules in the elastin signaling cascade were evaluated. RESULTS: As a result, a significant increase in the gene expression of elastin 26A was observed in both ex vivo photoexposed skin tissues and the in vitro photoexposed reconstituted skins. Additionally, significant increases in the gene expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-12 (MMP12) and lysyl oxidase (LOX) were observed in the ex vivo skin model. The evaluation of protein expression levels of some photoaging markers on the reconstituted skin revealed increased tropoelastin and fibrillin-1 expression after photoexposure. CONCLUSION: This work contributes to a better understanding of the biological mechanisms involved in photoaging, making it possible to obtain new strategies for the development of dermocosmetic active ingredients to prevent and treat skin aging.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Chronological skin aging causes the modification of genetic material through enzymes and proteins changes. The process reduces cellular proliferation, along with loss of tissue elasticity, reduced ability to regulate aqueous exchanges, and inefficient tissue replication. Appearance is negatively affected by cumulative changes in coloration, texture, and elasticity over time. The increase in the population's average life expectancy boosts the search for cosmetic therapies that can delay aging, mostly for the noninvasive modalities. Among the various options, radiofrequency therapy is a technique that can help reduce the effects of skin aging. AIM: Therefore, this study aims to review clinical evidence provided by scientific literature on the benefits of using radiofrequency therapy in reducing skin aging effects. METHODS: A review of the literature concerning skin aging, characteristics of radiofrequency therapy, and radiofrequency therapy in the treatment of skin laxity and mechanism of action was conducted using PubMed. RESULTS: The included studies have suggested that the mechanism of radiofrequency action is heating the dermis while preserving the epidermis. This heating causes immediate collagen denaturation, which is followed by the formation of new collagen, naturally providing skin tightening and greater elasticity. CONCLUSION: Even when used as single therapeutic modality, radiofrequency seems to meet the expectations in reducing the effects of skin aging.