Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Dermatology: Efficacy, Applications, and Challenges in Skin Regeneration

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has stood out as an innovative therapy in several areas of medicine, especially in dermatology and aesthetics. PRP, an autologous platelet concentrate obtained through blood centrifugation, is known for its regenerative and repairing properties, and is used in treatments such as facial rejuvenation, healing of chronic ulcers, and hair strengthening. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review article aims to analyze the efficacy of PRP in different clinical and aesthetic contexts, evaluating its application in the treatment of conditions such as alopecia, skin aging, and wound healing. The research seeks to compile and synthesize evidence on the methods of obtaining, application protocols and clinical results associated with the use of PRP. METHODOLOGY: The review was conducted following the guidelines of PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), with the selection of relevant articles in the PubMed, Scopus and Lilacs databases. Studies addressing the use of PRP in aesthetic and clinical treatments were included, focusing on its efficacy and safety. The search was conducted between January 2010 and October 2023, resulting in the inclusion of 14 articles that met the eligibility criteria. RESULTS: The results indicate that PRP is effective in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, promoting the revitalization of hair follicles and increasing hair density. In addition, the application of PRP in facial rejuvenation demonstrated significant improvements in skin texture and elasticity, with the stimulation of collagen and elastin production. In the context of chronic ulcers, PRP proved to be a viable alternative, accelerating the healing process and improving the quality of life of patients. CONCLUSION: PRP presents itself as a promising and multifaceted therapy, with significant applications in aesthetic and regenerative medicine. The accumulating evidence suggests that PRP is an effective and safe option for treating hair conditions, facial rejuvenation, and wound healing. However, the need for further studies to standardize the methods of obtaining and applying PRP is evident, as is the importance of personalizing treatment protocols according to the individual characteristics of patients. Continued research in this area is essential to fully explore the therapeutic potential of PRP and establish robust clinical guidelines.