Galderma’s Innovations in Regenerative Aesthetics: Insights from Gerry Muhle

In an interview with Dermatology Times, Gerry Muhle, head of Global Product Strategy at Galderma, delved into the results of a recent phase 4 study evaluating the company's injectable aesthetics portfolio in addressing facial volume loss associated with medication-driven weight loss.¹

Previously, Muhle shared insights into the results and the evolving facial aesthetic landscape.

Muhle, who oversees Galderma’s injectable aesthetics, therapeutic dermatology, and skin care franchises, shared insights into their current and future products, clinical methodologies, and the evolving trends driving innovation in the aesthetic market.

The Next Frontier in Regenerative Aesthetics

Galderma’s commitment to addressing patient and practitioner needs is evident in its focus on 2 flagship products: Sculptra and the Restylane portfolio. According to Muhle, the decision to emphasize these products stems from insights gathered through a comprehensive market research study.

"Sculptra is the first proven regenerative biostimulator," Muhle explained. "It has a unique formulation of PLLA-SCA, and we also see it can gradually, over time, improve the skin quality and appearance of the skin. It has now an improvement impact on the 3 layers of the skin, which…encourages remodeling of components in the extracellular matrix, such as elastin and collagen."

The Restylane portfolio, on the other hand, offers a range of hyaluronic acid-based injectables designed to restore facial shape and improve skin health. Muhle highlighted 2 key products from this portfolio: Restylane Lyft and Restylane Contour.

"Restylane Lyft helps restore a healthy and balanced shape of the face, making it ideal for mid-face treatment," he said. "Restylane Contour addresses patient needs with precise facial contouring…targeting specific areas where the product is injected."

The Shape-Up HIT Methodology

At the heart of Galderma’s approach to aesthetic treatments is the HIT methodology—a framework that ensures patient-centric, customized care. HIT stands for Holistic, Individualized Treatments, emphasizing that no 2 patients are alike and treatments should reflect their unique needs and goals.

Muhle elaborated on a specific HIT technique called the Shape-Up HIT, which was integral to the recent clinical study. In this study, patients underwent a sequence of treatments combining Sculptra with either Restylane Lyft or Restylane Contour.

"Patients were treated with Sculptra, and then either Restylane Lyft or Restylane Contour for their first treatment,” Muhle explained. "They came back 4 weeks later for a Sculptra retreatment and an optional touch-up treatment of either Restylane Lyft or Contour. Eight weeks later, there was an optional third treatment of Sculptra."

The results were encouraging. According to Muhle, "Subjects reported a high satisfaction as early as 4 weeks. After just 1 treatment session…85% of patients said that their face looked more refreshed; 89% felt more attractive and happier."

Addressing Emerging Trends in Dermatology and Aesthetics

Muhle emphasized that Galderma’s focus extends beyond current solutions to anticipate future needs. He highlighted regenerative aesthetics as an ongoing trend, noting its influence on Sculptra’s popularity. "We’re seeing a trend towards regenerative aesthetics…one of the reasons why Sculptra is having a moment right now. We’ve now found that it has elastin stimulation as well, and it’s affecting all 3 layers of the skin."

Reference

1. Galderma premieres positive interim results demonstrating the efficacy of its Injectable Aesthetics portfolio in addressing facial volume loss as a result of medication-driven weight loss. News release. Galderma. January 14, 2025. Accessed January 24, 2025. https://www.galderma.com/news/galderma-premieres-positive-interim-results-demonstrating-efficacy-its-injectable-aesthetics