Evaluating Platelet-Rich Therapy for Facial Aesthetics and Alopecia: A Critical Review of the Literature

Abstract

The majority of studies report positive results for all indications evaluated in this review, but the procedure is limited by the lack of a standardized method for preparation and application of platelet-rich plasma. The extent to which significant variability in platelet-rich plasma preparation and/or application methods may affect clinical outcomes is not completely clear. In the interim, we present a consolidation of platelet-rich plasma treatment techniques and outcomes currently in use to help guide physicians in their clinical practice.

Platelet-rich Plasma for Skin Rejuvenation and Treatment of Actinic Elastosis in the Lower Eyelid Area

“…A number of clinical studies have been published describing the positive effects of PRP on the appearance of the skin. In their recently published review, Motosko et al reported improved skin texture, color homogeneity, firmness and elasticity, increased volume, dermal thickness and patient satisfaction, reduced solar elastosis, decreased wrinkles, severity of nasolabial folds, acne scars, erythema and melanin after solely facial application of PRP [ 14 ]. Within their systematic review, they stated, that the majority of studies support PRP as a beneficial treatment in facial aesthetics.…”

“…Although there is a theoretical risk of injecting high-density platelet solution into a vessel, there were no cases of such complication observed in this literature search. Therefore, although platelet-rich plasma may not be the panacea of facial rejuvenation, there exists a place for this treatment in plastic surgery [ 14 ]. Apart from its solely application PRP is also frequently used as a supportive therapy [ 17 ].…”

“…These can damage the skin, while high levels of leukocytes can cause negative effects due to the release of proteases [ 12 - 13 ]. In their review “Evaluating Platelet-Rich Therapy for Facial Aesthetics and Alopecia: A Critical Review of the Literature” the authors assume that the preparation of PRP influences the clinical results and demand prospective controlled trials to determine the method of PRP preparation and application most likely to produce optimal clinical results [ 14 ].…”

Autologous platelet‐rich plasma therapy for pattern hair loss: A systematic review

“…These factors, including platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), are believed to have various functions which are required for new hair regrowth . PRP is applied by intradermal injections at the affected skin areas and repeated after various intervals . PRP is neither approved in the United States nor in the European Union for hair restoration purposes, though, it may be used in off‐label ways.…”

“…14 PRP is applied by intradermal injections at the affected skin areas and repeated after various intervals. 16 PRP is neither approved in the United States 17 nor in the European Union 18 for hair restoration purposes, though, it may be used in off-label ways. Currently, the evidence to support the clinical efficacy of PRP in pattern hair loss is limited, 19 and its use outside of clinical trials is not recommended.…”