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Updated: Jul 26, 2026
The Synthesis of RGD-functionalized Hydrogels as a Tool for Therapeutic Applications
Published on: October 7, 2016
Hydrogel-Based Therapies for Photoaging: Current Advances and Future Perspectives
Qiong Gao1,2, Chenghong Xu1,2, Mingwei Tan1,2
1Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
Background:
Photoaging, caused by long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure, leads to wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, pigmentation disorders, and impaired barrier function due to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and collagen breakdown. Hydrogels, with their high water content (> 90%), biocompatibility, and controlled drug release capabilities, have emerged as a powerful tool for preventing and treating skin photoaging.
Aims:
To review current treatment strategies and provide an updated perspective on the treatment of photoaging.
Methods:
We searched the PubMed and Web of Science library databases for eligible studies published within the past 5 years, categorizing and evaluating the effects of hydrogels with different carriers and active ingredients.
Results:
A total of 21 relevant studies were included, involving Lipid-based Hydrogels, Hyaluronic Acid-based Hydrogels, Chitosan-based Hydrogels, Polyacrylonitrile-modified κ-Carrageenan-based Hydrogels, Gellan Gum/Sodium Alginate-based Hydrogels, Recombinant Collagen-based Hydrogels, and Other Polymer-based Hydrogels.
Conclusions:
The collected studies consistently demonstrate that hydrogel therapy is more effective than traditional treatments in reducing UV-induced skin damage and promoting skin repair and regeneration. In addition to improving drug utilization efficiency, hydrogel carriers-particularly those incorporating hyaluronic acid-enhance skin hydration, slow aging, and accelerate wound healing, indicating promising therapeutic potential.
