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Platelet-rich plasma injections show efficacy in facial skin biostimulation

Platelet-rich plasma poor in leukocytes demonstrated improvement in facial skin biostimulation, according to study results published in Dermatologic Surgery.

Researchers studied 12 healthy women aged 45 to 65 years, who were enrolled between October and November 2014 and underwent three sessions of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections into facial skin at 1-month intervals.

To prepare the PRP, 9 mL of venous blood was collected from each patient. Transepidermal water loss, corneometry, Cutometer, Visioscan and Visioface were used to measure clinical and instrumental outcomes before the study began and 1 month after the end of treatment. Flow cytometry on PRP and peripheral blood samples also was conducted.

During each session, 4 mL of concentrate was administered during, including 1 mL into the forehead and crow’s feet area, 2 mL into the cheeks and 1 mL into the nasolabial folds

There were no serious adverse events reported, with transient adverse events including mild-to-moderate erythema in nine patients, well-tolerated ecchymosis in six patients and a burn sensation after injection in three patients.

There was good improvement reported in clinical and patient evaluation of skin texture 1 month after the last treatment session when compared with initial examination.

There was significant improvement in skin gross elasticity, skin smoothness parameters, skin barrier function and capacitance at 1 month after the last treatment. All PRP samples had documented leukocyte population and neutrophils depletion.

“The use of PRP rich in platelets and poor in leukocytes can provide objective improvements in skin biostimulation,” the researchers concluded. “Although a pilot study, our results may be useful for future studies on the specific cells and growth factors in PRP that contribute the facial rejuvenation.” – by Bruce Thiel

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.