This randomized clinical trial aims to compare two application techniques-needling (intradermal needling) and microneedling-for the delivery of an active-ingredient formulation containing 0.2% polynucleotides (PDRN), 2% hyaluronic acid, and 0.1% niacinamide for the treatment of periocular wrinkles related to aging.

Facial aging in the periocular region results from cumulative sun exposure, reduced dermal thickness, and repetitive muscular contraction, contributing to wrinkle formation and loss of skin quality. Polynucleotides (PDRN) have been reported as cellular-regeneration agents with potential to improve skin texture, hydration, and tissue recovery. The present study evaluates the clinical efficacy of a formulation composed of 0.2% PDRN, 2% hyaluronic acid, and 0.1% niacinamide, delivered by two minimally invasive techniques: needling (intradermal needling) and microneedling.

Twenty four participants will be randomly allocated (1:1) into two treatment arms: needling (n=12) or microneedling (n=12). Each participant will receive three treatment sessions spaced 30 days apart, with a total volume of 1 mL applied per session. Standardized 3D facial imaging (Vectra system) will be used to assess periocular wrinkle severity (0-100%), Glogau's photoaging scale (scores 1 - 4), epigenetic markers along with skin-quality parameters, pigmentation, and inflammatory response at baseline and at 30 and 180 days following the first session. Intra-group and inter-group comparisons will be conducted using a significance level of 5%.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Glogau II and III
• Fitzpatrick II and III

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• immune diseases
• tabagism
• aesthetics facial treatment in the past 6 months

Only group and codified data will be shared with study staff.

statistics