Rosacea Treatment with Platelet Rich Plasma and Regenerative Therapies
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory dermatological condition predominantly affecting facial skin. It is characterized by episodes of flushing, persistent erythema, papules, pustules and telangiectasias. The etiology of rosacea is multifactorial. It involves genetic disposition, environmental triggers, substance abuse and microbial factors.
In the United States, rosacea affects over 16 million individuals primarily between 30 and 60 years of age. This condition has multiple subtypes and causes chronic and relapsing episodes. Epidemiological data indicates prevalence ranging from .09% to 22% in ages 30 to 60 with differences due to regions and study methodology.
Etiology of Rosacea
Genetic factors: A higher prevalence of rosacea is observed in those individuals of Northern European decent. This suggests a hereditary component.
Microbial factors: An overabundance of Demodex folliculorum mites on facial skin is commonly cultured in those with this disease. These mites harbor bacteria such as Bacillus oleronius which triggers the inflammatory response.
Immune system dysregulation: Elevated levels of cathelicidin which is an antimicrobial peptide and displays increased activity with stratum corneum tryptic enzyme activity causing an inflammatory response.
Climate and Environmental Triggers
Environmental factors, particularly climate play a significant role in the exacerbation of rosacea symptoms.
Temperature variations: Rapid changes in temperature whether cold or hot can trigger flare up episodes.
Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sun exposure induces oxidative stress which aggravates rosacea.
Geographical Distribution: Higher rates are seen in regions with temperate climates where fluctuations in the temperatures are common.
Traditional Treatments for Rosacea
Management of rosacea has primarily involved the following,
Topical and Oral Medications: These include agents such as metronidazole, azelaic acid and oral doxycycline. These agents are used to eradicate the bacteria and reduce the inflammation and lesions associated with rosacea.
Laser and light bases therapies: Procedures like pulsed light (IPL) and pulsed laser light (PDL) target vascular components diminishing erythema and reducing telangiectasias.
Emerging Treatments: PRP and Microneedling for Rosacea
Recent studies and advancements have introduced newer advanced treatment therapies such as:
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP): Platelet Rich Plasma involves use of an autologous blood derived concentrate that is rich in growth factors, cytokines and bioactive proteins. PRP promotes tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation. PRP is also anti-infective to mobilize the destruction and removal of bacteria. Studies have demonstrated PRP’s efficacy and safety in the treatment of rosacea. PMID 34197656
PRP for Rosacea: Study on Efficacy and Safety
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Platelet Rich Plasma Injection in Treatment of Rosacea
Dermatol Ther 2021 Sep;34(5):e15049
Abstract: Rosacea is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease with a high prevalence among adults. Treatment of rosacea is difficult, with a high rate of recurrence. Due to the strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects of platelet rich plasma, it was used in the medicine for treating many inflammatory diseases. This study evaluated the role of PRP in the treatment of 40 patients with rosacea. There was statistically significant decrease in the grading scale after treatment with PRP, 50% showed significant improvement, while 50% showed good improvement.
Conclusion: Platelet Rich Plasma was effective and safe technique in the treatment of rosacea and an alternative to other modalities.
Microneedling: This technique uses fine needles to create micro injuries in the skin. This stimulates collagen and elastin production enhancing the skin barrier. Microneedling has shown promising results in the treatment of rosacea especially when combined with platelet rich plasma. PMID 34196817
Microneedling with RF for Rosacea: Observational Study Results
Efficacy and Safety of Non-Insulated Fractional Microneedle Radiofrequency for Treating Difficult to treat Rosacea: A 48-Week Prospective Observational Study
Arch Dermatol Res 2022 Sep;314(7):643-650
Results: Among 34 patients, 22 reported good or excellent improvement and 30 were very or relatively satisfied. No serious side effects were observed. NFMRF alone results in visible improvement and has great efficacy for difficult to treat rosacea without compromising patient safety of damaging the skin barrier.
Why Regenerative Treatments Are Superior to Topicals
The question always arises, “why are regenerative treatments necessary in a dermatological condition like rosacea”? The answer has been recently studied and found that rosacea is a barrier deficiency in origin. Therefore, regenerative treatments would restore the tissue and replace the barrier of the skin.
Barrier Dysfunction in Rosacea: Study on OTC Skincare Integration
Evidence of Barrier Deficiency in Rosacea and the Importance of Integrating OTC Skincare Products into Treatment Regimes
J Drugs Dermatol 2021 Apr 1;20(4): 384-392 PMID 33852244
Methods: Nine dermatologists completed a survey on OTC products they recommend for rosacea. The outcome of the discussions, coupled with the panel’s expert opinion and experience, is shown in this review.
Results: Addressing barrier dysfunction by use of moisturizer and cleanser formulations that restore skin hydration, normalize skin pH, restore the microbiome, and skin lipids can assist in improving rosacea signs and symptoms. Barrier restoring ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide were considered beneficial.
Authors note: Why not regenerate the tissue and provide a new barrier?
Advanced PRP Therapy for Refractory Rosacea: Case Series Review
Successful Treatment of Complex and Refractory Rosacea Using Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy: Case Series and Review of the Literature
J Cosmet Dermatol 2025 Feb;24(2): e70031 PMID 39924468
Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PRP therapy in treating distinct clinical presentations of rosacea and explore its potential as an alternative to systemic treatments.
Results: PRP therapy demonstrated significant efficacy and safety in treating rosacea, offering a viable alternative to systemic treatments. The combination of PRP with delicate pulsed light therapy showed enhanced therapeutic outcomes, not only alleviating rosacea symptoms but also reducing or eliminating patients’ dependence on oral medications.
Conclusion: PRP Therapy, both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other modalities, represents a promising approach for the management of rosacea. These findings highlight the potential of PRP to address the limitations of conventional therapies and improve patient outcomes.
Juventix Regenerative Medical: Leading Innovation in Dermatologic PRP
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. Our thixotrophic gel separator permits approximately 9% leukocytes to be included in the final concentrate. This amount of white blood cells does not cause a hyper-inflammatory state but is sufficient to guide and stimulate the regenerative cascade.
LED Platelet Activation and Needleless Delivery Solutions
Juventix Regenerative Medical offers a patented LED Activator to activate the platelets and begin the regenerative process. This 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.
Juventix Regenerative Medical has a vast array of products, devices and services tailored for the regenerative professional. The Radiance RF, Apollo Duet and Emerald Laser are the newest additions to our catalogue. These devices can deliver molecules into the lower layers of the skin using needles or electroporation/iontophoresis which is a needleless procedure to deliver molecules such as PRP for various treatment therapies. The Emerald Laser can be used for various dermatologic procedures, but it shines as a body contouring device in weight loss and body sculpting in troubled areas.
A Trusted Partner in Aesthetic and Dermatologic Solutions
For Rosacea, Juventix Regenerative Medical has the best cost-effective therapies to equip an aesthetic and dermatological clinic.
The regenerative marketplace is exploding with technological advancements being added daily for both men and women. With our premier line of products, services and devices 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
