Definition and Basic Concept

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated component of a patient's own blood, specifically enriched with platelets 1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9.
• Platelets are blood cells best known for their role in clotting, but they also contain growth factors and proteins crucial for healing and tissue regeneration 1,2,4,7,8.

How PRP is Made

• A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn, similar to a routine lab test 2,3,4,9.
• The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins at high speed to separate its components: red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets 3,4,6,9.
• The platelet-rich portion of the plasma is collected, resulting in a solution with 3–10 times the normal concentration of platelets 3,6,8,9.

Key Components of PRP

• Plasma: The liquid part of blood, mostly water and proteins, serving as a medium for cells 3,4.
• Platelets: Blood cells containing growth factors (such as PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF) and proteins (fibrin, fibronectin, vitronectin) that drive healing, cell proliferation, and tissue regeneration 4,6,7,8.
• Growth Factors & Cytokines: These molecules stimulate stem cells, promote angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), and accelerate tissue repair 7,8.

Mechanism of Action

When injected into injured or diseased tissue, PRP releases growth factors and cytokines that:

• Growth Factor Release: Stimulates fibroblasts, stem cells, and endothelial cells to proliferate and synthesize collagen.
• Angiogenesis: VEGF promotes new blood vessel formation, enhancing nutrient delivery.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces cytokines like IL-1β and TNF-α, mitigating inflammation.
• Collagen Remodeling: TGF-β and PDGF increase collagen type I and III production, improving skin elasticity.

Aesthetic Clinical Uses and Indications

Facial Rejuvenation

• Fine Lines/Wrinkles: Stimulates collagen to smooth perioral, periorbital, and forehead lines.
• Skin Texture/Tone: Improves radiance and reduces hyperpigmentation.
• Under-Eye Hollows: Addresses dark circles via neocollagenesis and vascular modulation. 

Acne and Scarring

• Active Acne: Antimicrobial peptides (e.g., Binterin™) reduce C. acnes; EPS SEAPUR HDO lowers IL-8.
• Atrophic Scars: Microneedling + PRP enhances dermal remodeling.

Hair Restoration

• Androgenetic Alopecia: PDGF and VEGF reactivate dormant hair follicles.

Body Contouring

• Cellulite Reduction: Tightens fibrous septae and improves microcirculation.
• Stretch Marks: Promotes elastin synthesis.

Post-Procedural Healing

• Enhances recovery after laser resurfacing, microneedling, or surgery.

Types of PRP

• Leukocyte-rich PRP: Contains higher levels of white blood cells, sometimes used for certain injuries 9.
• Leukocyte-poor PRP: Has fewer white blood cells, often preferred in aesthetics and some joint applications to reduce inflammation 9.

Advantages of PRP Therapy

• Autologous and Safe: Uses the patient’s own blood, minimizing risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission 7.
• Regenerative: Harnesses and amplifies the body’s natural healing mechanisms 3,4,5,7.
• Versatile: Applicable in a wide range of medical, surgical, and cosmetic fields 6.

Preparation Protocols and Variability

• The effectiveness of PRP depends on the preparation method, including centrifugation speed, platelet concentration, and whether leukocytes are included 6.
• There is ongoing research and debate regarding optimal protocols for different conditions 6.

Limitations and Evidence

• While PRP is effective for many conditions (especially tendon injuries, osteoarthritis, and some dermatological uses), evidence is mixed or limited for others 6.
• The mechanism is not fully understood, and results can vary depending on the patient and protocol 4,6.

Summary

PRP is a regenerative therapy that concentrates the body’s own healing cells and growth factors to accelerate tissue repair, reduce pain, and improve recovery in a variety of medical and cosmetic conditions. Its safety, versatility, and potential for natural healing make it an increasingly popular option in modern medicine 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Aesthetic Medicine: A Comprehensive Analysis

Executive Summary

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an autologous treatment derived from a patient’s own blood, enriched with platelets and growth factors. It has gained prominence in aesthetic medicine for its ability to stimulate tissue repair, collagen production, and skin rejuvenation. This report examines PRP’s mechanisms, applications, efficacy compared to traditional treatments, and clinical limitations.