From the Guidelines
Autologous platelet concentrates (APC) are a promising treatment approach for various skin conditions, including acne scarring, skin rejuvenation, melasma, vitiligo, stretch marks, and hair regeneration, as they promote tissue regeneration and wound healing by releasing growth factors that stimulate cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, and collagen production. APCs, which include platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), are derived from a patient's own blood and contain high concentrations of growth factors that stimulate cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, and collagen production 1. They are commonly used in aesthetic dermatology for skin rejuvenation, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, and treating acne scars and stretch marks.
Key Applications of APCs in Skin Conditions
- Acne scarring: APCs can help improve the appearance of acne scars by promoting collagen production and tissue regeneration 1
- Skin rejuvenation: APCs can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and promote a more youthful appearance 1
- Melasma: APCs can help improve the appearance of melasma by promoting skin rejuvenation and reducing hyperpigmentation 1
- Vitiligo: APCs can help improve the appearance of vitiligo by promoting skin rejuvenation and repigmentation 1
- Stretch marks: APCs can help improve the appearance of stretch marks by promoting collagen production and tissue regeneration 1
- Hair regeneration: APCs can help promote hair growth and improve the appearance of hair loss 1
Mechanism of Action
APCs work by releasing growth factors like PDGF, TGF-β, and VEGF that activate local stem cells, stimulate collagen synthesis, and promote new blood vessel formation, creating an optimal environment for tissue repair and regeneration 1. The typical protocol involves drawing the patient's blood, processing it through centrifugation to concentrate platelets, and then applying or injecting the resulting concentrate into the affected area. Treatment usually requires multiple sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, with maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.
Current Evidence and Recommendations
The most recent study on APCs in esthetic medicine, published in 2025, provides clinical recommendations for the use of APCs in facial aesthetics and dermatology 1. The study suggests that APCs are a promising treatment approach for various skin conditions, but notes that further research is needed to fully understand their effects and optimize treatment protocols. Overall, the use of APCs in skin conditions is a relatively recent treatment approach that shows promise, but requires further study to fully understand its effects and optimize treatment protocols.
From the Research
Autologous Platelet Concentrates for Skin Conditions
Autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) are used for various skin conditions, including:
- Facial rejuvenation: APCs are used to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles 2
- Acne scars: APCs are used in combination with microneedling or mesotherapy to improve the appearance of acne scars 2, 3
- Melasma: APCs are used to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation 2
- Wounds: APCs are used to promote wound healing after laser ablative treatments 2
- Chronic cutaneous ulcers: APCs are used to accelerate wound healing and promote tissue regeneration 4, 5
Mechanism of Action
APCs work by delivering a wide range of platelet-derived bioactive molecules, including growth factors, cytokines, and other biologically active substances, to the affected area. These molecules promote wound healing, collagen production, and tissue regeneration 2, 6
Administration Modes
APCs can be administered through various modes, including:
- Intradermal injection: APCs are injected directly into the skin 3
- Topical application: APCs are applied topically to the affected area 3, 5
- Mesotherapy: APCs are injected into the middle layer of the skin 2
Efficacy and Safety
Studies have shown that APCs are safe and well-tolerated, with minimal adverse effects 2, 3, 5. The efficacy of APCs varies depending on the condition being treated, but overall, they have been shown to be effective in promoting wound healing, improving skin texture, and reducing the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation 2, 3, 4, 5