Whether we accept it or not, aging is an inevitable process. In humans, extrinsic aging is caused by a combination of environmental factors like exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or harmful chemicals, and the natural yet gradual decline in biological function through time.

Recently, a number of novel therapies for skin rejuvenation have been developed for facial rejuvenation and many of its leading practitioners have emerged as innovators and gained much attention in the field of dermatology. In particular, a medical procedure that has long been used in the stimulation of wound healing and reduction of bleeding during surgeries is beginning to become very popular because of its promising skin benefits. Such treatment methods utilize the PRP or platelet-rich plasma.

How PRP works

Traditionally, anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatment methods use topical medication and laser procedures that are targeted to activate the fibroblasts and increase the synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Fibroblasts, specifically dermal fibroblasts play a significant role in aging through their various interactions with cells like adipocytes (fat cells), keratinocytes (epidermal cells), and mast cells (a type of white blood cell).

Aside from that, they also produce molecules like glycoproteins, cytokines, and ECM proteins that support cell to cell interactions and help maintain skin cell integrity.

Promising treatment methods

PRP treatment procedures involve the injection of patient-derived blood plasma into the area of the face where the rejuvenation is needed. PRP is a very promising treatment method because the blood plasma contains high levels of growth factors.

Examples include the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These factors aid in various physiological processes like cell proliferation and differentiation, cell attachment, migration, and the promotion of accumulation in the extracellular matrix.

Overall, this method contributes to the improvement of facial skin texture and the disappearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and eye bags. Aside from that, it also contributes to the disappearance of acne scars and reduces the signs of skin aging. PRP treatment can be done on its own or can be alternatively used with Botox, fillers, and laser treatment methods.

Benefits and risks

When compared to Botox and filler, facial rejuvenation using PRP is safer. This is because it triggers the body to produce and replace worn-out collagen, hence giving a better solution for aging over a long period of time.

According to Fadi Nukta, head plastic surgeon and founder of NOVA Plastic Surgery in Northern Virginia, "patients have been shown to respond well to PRP and have been encouraged by the fact that it is 100% our own body healing itself.”

In terms of its side effects, the process of skin rejuvenation through PRP have eliminated previous medical risks because it involves the introduction of a substance that is obtained naturally (from one’s own body).

New treatment methods

Aside from this, the new treatments also reduce the chances of an allergic reaction or infection that would sometimes occur with the anti-aging treatment methods seen in previous decades. This is due to the fact that PRP treatment uses unmodified (or unchanged) cells, hence they will not be rejected by the body’s immune system. This makes facial rejuvenation possible, and healthy, all at the same time

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