Autologous pure platelet-rich plasma injections for facial skin rejuvenation: Biometric instrumental evaluations and patient-reported outcomes to support antiaging effects

Abstract

Background: During skin aging, a degeneration of connective tissue and decrease in hyaluronic acid polymers occur. Since platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains growth factors and various cytokines, it was hypothesized that it could play a role in fibroblast activation and type I collagen expression in human fibroblasts.

Objectives: This study was performed to assess the efficacy of autologous PRP injections for facial skin rejuvenation, measured by biometric instrumental evaluations and patient-reported outcomes.

Patients and methods: Patients signed an informed consent form. The EmCyte PurePRP^® system technology was used to produce neutrophil-poor PurePRP. The efficacy of the procedures was assessed by biometric parameters, and a patient outcome a self-assessment questionnaire on each visit and at 6-month follow-up.

Results: Eleven volunteers were included in the study, receiving 3 PurePRP^® treatments. A significant decrease in brown spot counts and area (P < 0.05) was seen after 3 months. Wrinkle count and volume were significantly reduced (P < 0.05 for total wrinkle appearance). Skin firmness parameters were significantly improved. Skin redness was significantly improved after 169 days post-therapy for both the nasolabial and malar areas. A decrease in SLEB thickness was already noted at 2 months after the first injection, with an increase in SLEB density (P < 0.05 for both parameters), without affecting subcutaneous fat thickness. Self-assessment at 6-month follow-up revealed an average satisfaction score of >90%.

Conclusions: A series of 3 PurePRP injections at 6-month follow-up resulted in significant skin rejuvenation as demonstrated by biometric parameters and confirmed by patient self-assessment score.

Keywords: anti-wrinkle; antiaging; biometric; pure platelet-rich-plasma; skin rejuvenation.