Systematic Review of the Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Aesthetic Dermatology

July 2015 in “ Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology ”

Michael S Leo, Avneesh Kumar, Raj Kirit, Rajyalaxmi Konathan, Raja K Sivamani

platelet-rich plasma PRP androgenetic alopecia scar revision acne scars skin rejuvenation dermal augmentation striae distensae hair growth hair volume fat grafting laser therapy fractional laser therapy

Studysummary This review discusses the cosmetic applications of platelet-rich plasma in dermatology, highlighting its potential benefits and the need for more controlled studies.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The 2015 systematic review analyzed the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in aesthetic dermatology, including its use in androgenetic alopecia, scar revision, acne scars, skin rejuvenation, dermal augmentation, and striae distensae. The review included 22 manuscripts, with evidence suggesting PRP's benefits in hair growth and skin rejuvenation. PRP showed positive results in hair loss treatment, with improved hair volume and quality, but was less effective in severe alopecia cases. In scar revision, PRP combined with other treatments like fat grafting or laser therapy showed significant improvements. For acne scars, PRP used with fractional laser therapy led to substantial improvements and reduced recovery times. Skin rejuvenation treatments with PRP improved skin quality metrics. Despite these positive findings, the review emphasized the need for more controlled studies, including split-face comparisons, to confirm PRP's efficacy and establish best practices, as the document lacked specific participant numbers for the referenced studies.

View this study on onlinelibrary.wiley.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Research cited in this study

5 / 5 results

research Platelet-Rich Plasma in Dermatology: Boon or Bane?

119 citations , January 2014 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology”

This review discusses the use of platelet-rich plasma in various dermatological applications and reports no new clinical results; the authors call for more rigorous trials to confirm its effectiveness.

research Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection Is Effective and Safe for the Treatment of Alopecia

45 citations , March 2013 in “European Journal of Plastic Surgery”

In this retrospective study, PRP injections for alopecia were found to improve hair volume and quality, with high patient satisfaction, particularly in those with less than 2 years of hair loss.

research The Effect of CD34+ Cell-Containing Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection on Pattern Hair Loss: A Preliminary Study

88 citations , December 2012 in “Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology”

This study found that interfollicular injection of autologous CD34+ cell-containing PRP preparation improved hair count and thickness in patients with pattern hair loss, with better results than placental extract treatment.

research Letter: Platelet-Rich Plasma for Treating Male Pattern Baldness

36 citations , December 2012 in “Dermatologic Surgery”

Injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can increase hair growth rate and density in male pattern baldness.

research Enhanced Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma Containing a New Carrier on Hair Growth

166 citations , August 2011 in “Dermatologic Surgery”

This study found that PRP combined with dalteparin and protamine microparticles may enhance hair growth by increasing hair thickness compared to PRP alone.