Efficacy and Safety of Sodium Hyaluronate Gel for Facial Skin Rejuvenation

BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a cornerstone of aesthetic skin treatments due to its vital role in skin hydration and combating aging signs. OBJECTIVE: This trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel non-cross-linked HA gel for improving skin quality in a Chinese population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this multicenter, randomized, controlled trial, 420 subjects were enrolled (2:1, treatment: control). The treatment group received three full-face intradermal injections of the HA gel at 3-week intervals, whereas the control group received no intervention. Primary end points were blinded evaluations of the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale and a composite improvement rate for skin dryness/dullness. RESULTS: The treatment group showed significantly higher Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale improvement (90.63% vs 3.65%) and composite improvement rates (83.20% vs 3.65%) than control group (p < .0001), with effects sustained for 6 months. Skin hydration and elasticity significantly increased from baseline (p < .05). Peak efficacy rates for fine lines and roughness reached 51.59% and 50.00%, respectively. Adverse events were mild and transient, with decreasing incidence. CONCLUSION: This non-cross-linked HA gel effectively enhances skin hydration, elasticity, and texture with sustained 6-month benefits and a favorable safety profile, supporting its use for facial rejuvenation.