TLDR Using microneedling with platelet-rich plasma is more effective and just as safe as microneedling alone for treating acne scars.
The meta-analysis evaluated the combined treatment of microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for atrophic acne scars, pooling results from 14 studies (4 RCTs and 10 non-randomized studies) involving 472 patients. The results showed that the combined treatment was more effective than microneedling alone, with increased odds of significant clinical improvement (OR: 2.97, 95% CI: 1.96 to 4.51, p < 0.001), improved mean Goodman's qualitative scale (GQS) score, and higher patient satisfaction. The incidence of severe adverse events was not significantly different between the two treatment groups. The study concluded that combined treatment with microneedling and PRP is more effective and equally safe as microneedling alone in treating atrophic acne scars, but called for large-scale RCTs for further confirmation.
76 citations,
December 2018 in “Aesthetic Plastic Surgery” Platelet-rich plasma may help in skin and hair treatments, and with muscle and joint healing, but more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and limitations.
53 citations,
July 2018 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology” Platelet-rich plasma may improve skin rejuvenation, hair growth, and scar treatment, but more large-scale trials are needed for stronger evidence.
12 citations,
December 2017 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings” Platelet-rich plasma and microneedling could potentially help hair growth in people with alopecia areata, but more research is needed.
106 citations,
January 2016 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Using platelet-rich plasma with microneedling works better for acne scars than microneedling with water.
3 citations,
November 2021 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Platelet-Rich Plasma may improve skin health and reduce wrinkles, but more research is needed for standard treatment guidelines.
July 2024 in “Periodontology 2000” Autologous platelet concentrates show promise in esthetic treatments but need more standardized research.
92 citations,
June 2017 in “Journal of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery” Microneedling is a safe and effective treatment for various skin conditions, often preferred for its fewer side effects and shorter recovery time.
31 citations,
January 2019 in “Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy can promote hair growth and improve facial aesthetics, including reducing acne scars and facial burns, and it works best with three initial monthly injections.
March 2024 in “Majallah-i taḥqīqāt-i ̒ulūm-i pizishkī-i Zāhidān/Majallah-i taḥqīqāt-i ̒ulūm-i pizishkī-i Zāhidān./Zahedan journal of researches in medical sciences” Microneedling with PRP effectively reduces facial pigmentation with minimal side effects.
