Recent Advancements in the Regenerative Management of Age-Related Dermal Degeneration

Age-related dermal degeneration (ARDD) is a leading cause of compromised barrier function and chronic wounds in older individuals. ARDD can be broadly classified into two phenotypes: “exudative” and “atrophic.” Current interventions for the exudative form rely mainly on anti-angiogenic peptides delivered by serial intradermal micro-injections, while only three globally authorized small-molecule modulators are available for atrophic ARDD. These modalities have notable shortcomings: peptide therapy requires frequent dosing; a subset of recipients fails to respond or develops secondary fibrosis. Moreover, the approved agents for atrophic ARDD have not yet demonstrated robust restorative capacity. Numerous next-generation biologics and bioengineered materials are under active investigation to overcome these limitations. Drawing on a comprehensive survey of international literature and recent conference abstracts, we present an integrated overview of ARDD classification, developmental dysregulation, risk modifiers, and emerging regenerative strategies. We systematically summarize current therapeutic avenues for each phenotype, highlight recently cleared products and modalities, and detail progress in ongoing pre-clinical and early-phase regenerative trials.