Dr. Laura Rivera Escudero has conducted research on the efficacy of ULTRACOL (PDO) in aesthetic medicine as a collagen inducer. Her study analyzes the impact of this innovative biostimulator on skin regeneration and its comparison with other collagen inducers. In this article, we will explore its clinical applications, benefits in collagen synthesis, and its potential as a key treatment for facial rejuvenation.
EVALUATION OF THE EFFICACY OF ULTRACOL (PDO) IN AESTHETIC MEDICINE AS A COLLAGEN INDUCER: A BIBLIOGRAPHIC REVIEW
Introduction
Skin aging is a natural process characterized by the loss of elasticity, firmness, and hydration of the skin, leading to the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of soft tissue volume. Intrinsic factors, such as genetics, and extrinsic factors, such as UV radiation exposure, accelerate this process. At the cellular level, reactive oxygen species (ROS) induce collagen degradation and reduce elastic fibers, promoting photoaging.
To combat these effects, dermal fillers have been developed as an aesthetic solution. There are two main types: those that fill spaces and provide immediate volume, and collagen inducers, which stimulate long-term skin tissue regeneration. While the first type shows immediate but transient results, the second type promotes collagen synthesis and offers progressive and sustainable improvements.
Among these advances, ULTRACOL (liquid PDO) is presented as a biodegradable collagen inducer that enables tissue regeneration and improves skin quality. Polydioxanone (PDO) is a material widely used in medicine, particularly in absorbable sutures, and its biostimulatory capacity has been researched. This systematic review examines the efficacy and safety of ULTRACOL in aesthetic medicine through recent studies.
Objectives
The main objective of this research is to evaluate the efficacy of ULTRACOL as a collagen inducer in aesthetic treatments, as well as secondary objectives: comparing its biostimulatory capacity with other collagen inducers such as poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL); analyzing its safety and side effects; and examining its clinical applications and impact on improving skin quality.
Methodology
Given the characteristics of a field of study that does not yet have a significant number of articles available for the design of a quantitative research study, the only possible option is to conduct a qualitative descriptive study.
The bibliographic search was carried out in recognized electronic databases in the scientific and medical field, including PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), and Cochrane Library. Studies published between 2014 and 2024 that assessed the efficacy and safety of ULTRACOL were selected. Finally, 6 studies were included that met strict inclusion criteria, excluding those that did not provide relevant or sufficient quality data.
Results
This study evaluated the efficacy of ULTRACOL (liquid PDO) as a collagen inducer in aesthetic treatments, comparing it with other biostimulants, analyzing its safety, and examining its impact on skin quality.
Efficacy of ULTRACOL as a collagen inducer: ULTRACOL has shown its ability to significantly stimulate the production of type I and III collagen, promoting skin regeneration and improving skin texture and firmness. Visible effects were observed in the reduction of wrinkles and an increase in collagen density in the treated tissues.
Comparison with other collagen inducers: Comparative studies have shown that the efficacy of ULTRACOL in reducing nasolabial wrinkles is similar to that of hyaluronic acid (HA), with the added benefit of stimulating collagen production. Compared to poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL), ULTRACOL has faster biodegradability and a lower inflammatory response, preventing the formation of nodules and prolonged adverse reactions. While PLLA may cause persistent subclinical inflammation, ULTRACOL offers controlled and safe biostimulation.
Safety and side effects: The safety of ULTRACOL has been extensively documented. In all the studies analyzed, its use was considered safe, with mild and transient adverse events, such as edema, erythema, and sensitivity at the injection site. No serious adverse reactions or complications were reported during its biodegradation. Compared to other collagen inducers, ULTRACOL showed superior tolerance and a lower risk of prolonged side effects.
Clinical applications and improvement of skin quality: The biostimulatory capacity of ULTRACOL positions it as an effective option for facial rejuvenation procedures. Its rapid biodegradability, between 4 and 6 months, allows for controlled regeneration without severe adverse reactions. Its progressive effect on collagen synthesis contributes to the improvement of dermal thickness and quality, offering visible and sustained results over time. While current studies support its efficacy, long-term research will allow for more accurate evaluation of the conversion of type III collagen to type I collagen and its benefits for different skin types.
Discussion
ULTRACOL represents an innovation in aesthetic medicine due to its efficacy in collagen regeneration and improvement of skin quality. Its biodegradability and low inflammatory profile differentiate it from other collagen inducers, making it a safe option for patients seeking to improve skin firmness and elasticity without significant risks. ULTRACOL stands as an innovative alternative in aesthetic medicine and a key tool in facial rejuvenation treatments.
Although available studies support its efficacy, long-term research is recommended to assess its sustained effect on the skin, with larger samples to evaluate its impact on different skin types and anatomical areas.
Conclusions
The reviewed studies support the efficacy of ULTRACOL (liquid PDO) in stimulating collagen and regenerating the skin, showing improvements in skin texture, wrinkle reduction, and increased dermal density. The rapid biodegradability of the product and its low inflammatory response reinforce its safety and tolerability profile, positioning it as a preferred option compared to other fillers like PLLA and PCL.
The methodologies employed, including PCR analysis, histology, and 3D scans, confirm its biostimulatory effect in animal and human models, validating its clinical application in facial rejuvenation treatments. Its ability to induce the production of type I and III collagen allows for a progressive approach to improving skin firmness and elasticity, with sustained results over time.
