TLDR Platelet-rich plasma therapy could be an effective treatment for melasma with minimal side effects.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is being recognized as a potential treatment for melasma, a skin condition that causes brown-gray patches. PRP contains growth factors like TGF-β that may reduce melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase and related proteins, and it also enhances collagen synthesis, which can improve skin texture. A systematic review of the literature included 6 studies that met the criteria, suggesting PRP's effectiveness as a standalone or adjuvant therapy with few side effects. However, the review calls for more extensive randomized controlled trials to definitively confirm PRP's efficacy in treating melasma. The review does not provide the number of participants in the studies.
21 citations
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June 2019 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment has been found effective in promoting hair growth for alopecia patients, with minimal side effects like temporary pain and redness.
39 citations
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March 2019 in “Dermatologic Surgery” PRP therapy increases hair density for androgenetic alopecia.
70 citations
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February 2017 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Treatment with plasma rich in growth factors improved hair density and thickness for hair loss patients.
270 citations
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March 2012 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Platelet-rich plasma can potentially promote hair growth by stimulating cell growth and increasing certain proteins.
5 citations
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October 2021 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can significantly improve melasma, a skin pigmentation disorder, but may not add benefits when used with certain other treatments.
3 citations
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August 2020 in “PubMed” Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is effective in treating various skin conditions and improving hair density, thickness, and patient satisfaction, with lower relapse rates for Alopecia Areata.
