Introduction to Facial Aging and Regenerative Aesthetics
Facial skin is one of the first regions to show signs of aging and environmental exposure. These changes include thinning of the epidermis, reduction in dermal collagen, loss of skin elastic properties and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Platelet Rich Plasma is an autologous blood derived concentrate, rich in cytokines, growth factors and bioactive proteins. These growth factors stimulate tissue regeneration and collagen production. With extremely low side effects and patient tolerability, platelet rich plasma has become an increasingly popular option in aesthetic dermatology. Platelet Rich Plasma offers a science proven approach to facial skin rejuvenation. PRP stimulates the natural regenerative pathways with minimal recuperative time and minimal side effects. It is a versatile and safe option for regenerative professionals and patients seeking a natural gradual improvement in aging skin.
Mechanism of Action
Platelet Rich Plasma contains a concentration of growth factors and cytokines that modulate tissue repair and regeneration. Some of these factors are:
- Platelet Derived Growth Factor
- Transforming Growth Factor-beta
- Vascular Endothelial growth Factor
- Epidermal Growth Factor
- Insulin Like Growth Factor
These have been 300 of these molecules identified and some studies estimate there could be as many as 3000 in total.
PRP’s Regenerative Effects
These growth factors work synergistically and promote:
- Fibroblast activation and proliferation
- Neocollagenesis which is new collagen formation.
- Angiogenesis which is new blood vessel formation.
- Extracellular matrix formation
Once activated, platelets degranulate and release these factors and a localized cascade reaction occurs which begins the regenerative process. Platelet Rich Plasma acts as a chemotactic stimulus for stem cells and promotes healing and tissue regeneration by the modulation of inflammation and the action of fibroblasts in the dermis.
PRP Delivery Methods and Skin Penetration
Platelet Rich Plasma is typically delivered by:
- Intradermal injection which deposits platelet rich plasma directly into the dermis.
- Micro needling which enhances transdermal absorption of PRP by creating microchannels through the stratum corneum. This facilitates the transdermal penetration.
- Electroporation and iontophoresis where electric current in a continuous pulsed manner reversibly opens the cell wall and PRP is driven down by electro-magnetic polarization.
- Sonification where sonic waves disrupt the stratum corneum and PRP enters the deeper skin layers.
- Chemical electroporation where special serums chemically drive the PRP into the tissues over time.
Combination techniques are often used to improve distribution and the depth of penetration depending on the tissue.
Patient Comfort and Recovery
Pain levels vary with the individual and the technique employed.
- Injections – patients report mild to moderate discomfort mitigated by topical anesthetics.
- Micro needling – very well tolerated with some stinging or burning reported.
- Recovery period – again this is variable depending on the individual. Usually, redness and minor swelling may last 1–3 days.
Side Effects and Safety Profile
As an autologous blood derived concentrate, platelet rich plasma minimizes the risk of any immunologic reactions. Reported side effects are usually mild and transient. Such as:
- Bruising and mild swelling at the treatment site.
- Redness and mild inflammation.
- Mild discomfort and a tight feeling of the skin.
No significant adverse effects have been reported with repeated use even over several years.
Poor technique may result in prolonged erythema or uneven texture. This is not caused by platelet rich plasma.
Duration of Results and Longevity
Every person is different as is the skill of the professional. Concurrent diseases effect the results and duration as does smoking and drug use. Environmental factors also effect the duration of the results.
- Improvement in hydration and skin texture typically seen in 2 weeks.
- Noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles with increased firmness in 6 weeks
- Optimal effects often peak at 3 to 6 months.
- Longevity can last 6 to 12 months with longer durations with repeated use.
Clinical Evidence Supporting PRP for Facial Rejuvenation
Study: Synergistic Effects of PRP and Hyaluronic Acid
Aesthet Surg J 2021 Jun 14;41(7);NP854-NP864 PMID 33534905
Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess and investigate the synergistic effect of hyaluronic acid and autologous platelet rich plasma injections on facial skin rejuvenation.
Conclusions: Combining platelet rich plasma and hyaluronic acid is a promising treatment for facial rejuvenation with a highly significant improvement in facial appearance and skin elasticity compared with PRP or HA alone.
Study: Pure PRP Injections – Anti-Aging Evaluation
J Cosmet Dermatol 2019 Aug;18(4):985-995 PMID 30350908
Background: During skin aging, a degeneration of connective tissue and decrease in hyaluronic acid occurs. Since platelet rich plasma contains growth factors and various cytokines, it was hypothesized that it could play a role in fibroblast activation and type 1 collagen expression in human fibroblasts.
Objectives: This study was performed to assess the efficacy of autologous platelet rich plasma injections for facial skin rejuvenation, measured by biometric instrumental evaluations and patient reported outcomes.
Conclusion: After a series of 3 platelet rich plasma injections at 6 month follow up resulted in significant skin rejuvenation as demonstrated by biometric parameters and confirmed by patient self-assessment scores.
Study: Molecular Effects of PRP on Wrinkled Skin
Exp Ther Med 2020 Feb 17;19(4):3024-3030 PMID 32256789
Objectives: Autologous serum platelet rich plasma has been used to rejuvenate wrinkled and aged skin for years; however, the molecular mechanism for the positive results of PRP on the skin remains unclear. The present study aimed to clarify the potential molecular mechanisms for the role of platelet rich plasma in wrinkled and aged skin rejuvenation and provide evidence for future clinical applications.
Conclusion:
Ultraviolet light is the primary stress that causes oxidative stress in the skin. This reaction is initiated by reactive oxygen species and eventually results in premature skin aging by inhibiting transforming growth factor beta activity, inducing MMP expression and activation the TOR signaling pathway, culminating in the inhibition of autophagy.
PRP is involved in autophagy and inhibits UV induced MMP-1 and tyrosinase upregulation to protect the skin from photoaging.
PRP also induced expression of factors that improved skin elasticity.
Platelet Rich Plasma treatment directly implants a variety of active growth factors into the aging skin. These factors change gene expression in skin cells, promote skin cell proliferation and differentiation and rearrange the structure of skin tissues. PRP injections are effective in improving skin conditions and protecting skin from photoaging and thus have broad applications in anti-aging skin repair.
Study: Use of Platelet Rich Plasma for Skin Rejuvenation
Skin Res Technol 2024 Apr 22;30(4):e13714 PMID 38650371
Objective: Platelet Rich Plasma is recognized as a safe and effective therapy for regenerative skin healing and rejuvenation, utilizing autologous blood enriched with various growth factors. This review aims to assess the efficacy of PRP treatment for skin rejuvenation.
Conclusion:
Analysis revealed that PRP treatment led to significant enhancements in multiple facial parameters after one to three sessions. Improvements were noted in skin pore size, texture, wrinkle reduction, pigmented spots, collagen density, hyaluronic acid levels and protection against ultraviolet damage. Combining PRP with hyaluronic acid demonstrated a synergistic effect particularly enhancing skin elasticity and firmness. Incorporating both physical and biometric data for assessment proved superior to relying solely on physical observations for evaluating skin quality and structural changes.
This study underscores the efficacy of PRP monotherapy for skin rejuvenation. Heightened awareness and advancements in technology have contributed to the emergence of higher quality, less biased studies supporting PRP as reliable and safe therapeutic option for skin rejuvenation.
Juventix Regenerative Medical: Industry Leaders in PRP Technology
Juventix Regenerative Medical is an industry leader in the regenerative medical field. Our Platelet Rich Plasma Kits are FDA cleared and designed for safety, sterility and effectiveness. Our kits are scientifically manufactured to provide a platelet concentrate, devoid of red blood cells with a minimum number of leukocytes that are critical for the regenerative process.
Advanced PRP Activation Technology
Juventix Regenerative Medical offers a patented LED Activator to degranulate the platelets and begin the regenerative process. The activation is a critical step in the release of growth factors, cytokines and bioactive proteins from the granules that are contained on the platelets and is accomplished with LED light. This negates the use of chemical additives such as Calcium Chloride, Thrombin or Collagen. This mode of activation by LED light provides sustained growth factor release versus older methods of activation while adhering to the minimal manipulation standards of the FDA.
This activation should always be accomplished after the gentle swirl of the centrifuged product to maximize the number of captured platelets.
Platelet Rich Fibrin and Advanced Device Solutions
Juventix Regenerative Medical supplies a patented Bio-Incubator to transform the Platelet Rich Plasma into an Injectable Platelet Rich Fibrin. The Platelet Rich Fibrin, commonly called the “second generation of platelet products” has different cytokines and growth factors than the original PRP. These different cytokines provide an anti-inflammatory microenvironment and can be used confidently in inflammatory conditions.
Juventix Regenerative Medical supplies the Radiance RF Advanced Radiofrequency Micro Needling Device. This device is the most up to date RF in the marketplace. It is a cutting edge subdermal adipose remodeling device that synergistically combines micro needling with radiofrequency energy. This dual action approach enables the regenerative professional to deliver precise application into the deeper skin layers effectively stimulating collagen and elastin production. The needles used are the most advanced in the aesthetic arena. This device has been proven to enhance the appearance of saggy skin, fine lines and wrinkles especially in the face and neck area.
Juventix Regenerative Medical offers the Apollo Duet for multiple skin and musculoskeletal applications. This is a needle free treatment using electroporation and iontophoresis followed by radiofrequency. Since no needles are used, there is minimal, if any, healing time needed after treatments and this equipment can be utilized by unlicensed assistants in the spa facility as a Class 1 medical device. The benefits of the Apollo Duet are improvements in skin texture and firmness, minimization of solar damage, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles and overall tightening of areas of skin laxity. All without utilization of a needle!
Transform Your Aesthetic Practice with Juventix
Juventix Regenerative Medical has a vast array of products, devices and services tailored for the regenerative professional. From Platelet Rich Plasma Kits and processing devices to our newest additions for needleless aesthetic care, Juventix offers the newest “cutting edge “products for our regenerative collaborators. The regenerative marketplace is exploding and transforming daily for both men and women. With our premier line of products and our experienced staff Juventix will aid and guide any regenerative professional in providing enhanced outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.
RESTORE. REVIVE. REGENERATE. — JUVENTIX REGENERATIVE MEDICAL
Regenerative Regards,
Dr. Robert McGrath
