Clinical comparison of two hyaluronic acid-derived fillers in the treatment of nasolabial folds: Mesoglow ^® and IAL System ^®

Hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers are widely used to reduce the appearance of aging. However, comparative research on the efficacy and safety of products of similar composition is limited. We compared outcomes achieved with two non-cross-linked HA fillers of almost identical composition, Mesoglow ^® and IAL System ^®. Forty subjects with visible nasolabial folds (NLFs) were enrolled in a randomized study. Wrinkle severity was rated using the 5-point Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS). Each subject was injected with Mesoglow ^® in one NLF and IAL System ^® in the other. An optimal cosmetic result was established at two weeks after a second treatment. Participants were then reassessed at 2, 6, and 12weeks, respectively, post-optimal cosmetic result using the WSRS. The degree of improvement was also assessed by subjects and investigators using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). At baseline, the mean WSRS score was 3.20±0.41. At the optimal cosmetic result, 98% of subjects showed a 1- or 2-point change in WSRS score with either treatment. All subsequent WSRS scores were significantly improved over baseline for both treatments. There was no significant difference between treatments or improvement in WSRS score at any point in time. Investigator GAIS scores at weeks4 and 6 were slightly but not significantly higher for Mesoglow ^®-treated skin. There was no significant difference in the frequency of local adverse responses. No serious systemic adverse events occurred. This study indicates that Mesoglow ^® and IAL System ^® are equally effective in achieving short-term correction of NLFs, but the longevity of their effects is limited.