Je-Young Park, Luis Alberto Parra Hernandez, Hossam Elenany, Martina Kerscher, William Gregory Chernoff, Warner Carr, Samantha Tran
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction
Intradermal botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A; microtoxin) has been shown to improve skin texture, superficial rhytides, and sweat/sebaceous activity through neuronal (cholinergic) and non-neuronal pathways. While discussions around immune system interactions for BoNT-A in aesthetic indications exist for intramuscular injection, the high density of antigen-presenting cells in the dermis raises the question of whether a different level of concern is warranted.
Methods
This narrative review was informed by a PubMed search through 2025 identifying studies on intradermal BoNT-A and immunogenicity using combined/related terms for BoNT-A, intradermal injection, microtoxin, immunogenicity, and skin immunology. Reference lists were screened for additional studies.
Results
The number of publications on microtoxin has increased markedly since 2024. While the skin is an immunologically active organ, immunogenicity data remain limited for aesthetic intradermal injection. To date, only a single prospective study has examined immune responses to intradermal BoNT-A in aesthetic practice. This study showed higher antibody responses with intradermal versus intramuscular delivery. Like data for intramuscular injection, there is a lack of long-term data on neutralizing antibody (NAb) development; however, in the context of increasing BoNT-A doses for facial treatment and increasing long-term exposure, introduction of BoNT-A into the dermis over a large surface may raise the risk of NAb development.
Conclusions
Microtoxin techniques may heighten immunogenic potential through dermal antigen exposure and frequent retreatment. IncobotulinumtoxinA is free of complexing proteins and has a low antigenic protein burden, which may favor its use for intradermal injection. However, direct long-term comparative evidence for aesthetic intradermal treatments is lacking.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology publishes high quality, peer-reviewed articles on all aspects of cosmetic dermatology with the aim to foster the highest standards of patient care in cosmetic dermatology. Published quarterly, the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology facilitates continuing professional development and provides a forum for the exchange of scientific research and innovative techniques.
The scope of coverage includes, but will not be limited to: healthy skin; skin maintenance; ageing skin; photodamage and photoprotection; rejuvenation; biochemistry, endocrinology and neuroimmunology of healthy skin; imaging; skin measurement; quality of life; skin types; sensitive skin; rosacea and acne; sebum; sweat; fat; phlebology; hair conservation, restoration and removal; nails and nail surgery; pigment; psychological and medicolegal issues; retinoids; cosmetic chemistry; dermopharmacy; cosmeceuticals; toiletries; striae; cellulite; cosmetic dermatological surgery; blepharoplasty; liposuction; surgical complications; botulinum; fillers, peels and dermabrasion; local and tumescent anaesthesia; electrosurgery; lasers, including laser physics, laser research and safety, vascular lasers, pigment lasers, hair removal lasers, tattoo removal lasers, resurfacing lasers, dermal remodelling lasers and laser complications.