Study suggests hyaluronic acid filler remnants safe to reuse

(HealthDay)—Remnants of hyaluronic acid fillers that have been opened and stored can be reused safely, with no signs of aerobic or anaerobic bacterial or fungal growth in non-aseptic conditions, according to a study published online June 2 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Rubens Pontello Jr., M.D., from the State University of Londrina in Brazil, and colleagues examined the microbiological safety of reusing hyaluronic acid that is remaining from syringes used for facial filling. They inoculated small aliquots of leftovers from 31 hyaluronic acid fillers, previously used for facial filling, in culture medium. The fillers were stored in their original syringes at room temperature, or cooled in a standard refrigerator from one week to 12 months after initial use.

The researchers found that none of the samples showed any aerobic or anaerobic bacterial or fungal growth after 42 days of inoculation in culture medium.

"Hyaluronic acid fillers did not show any fungal or bacterial contamination after being opened and stored at room temperature in non-aseptic conditions," the authors write. "The possibility of reusing the remaining portion of the material in the syringe can be safe and economically viable."

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