The Effect of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix on Skin Rejuvenation: A Split-Face Comparison

Despite the increasingly popular use of platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) for facial rejuvenation, no studies have evaluated its effects on skin.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of PRFM on skin quality as measured by the Canfield VISIA Complexion Analysis System.

This was a 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled trial conducted at a single center comparing 2 groups. Thirty patients received a PRFM injection in the mid-cheek region and nasolabial fold on one side of the face and saline on the contralateral side. The primary outcome measure was the difference between pre- and posttreatment total VISIA skin scores for each group at 6 and 12 weeks. The change in subscores for each skin parameter was also calculated.

There were 30 participants, with a mean [standard deviation] age of 49.9 [13.9] years. At 6 weeks, the median change in total VISIA score (interquartile range) was -1.77 (2.36) in the PRFM group and -0.73 (2.09) in the saline group (P = 0.003). The only skin parameter that had a significantly different change in score between the groups was texture (P = 0.004). At 12 weeks, the change in median score was -1.31 (3.26) in the PRFM cohort and -0.76 (2.21) in the saline cohort (P = 0.34). There was no statistical significance in the change in score for any of the individual skin parameters.

PRFM can objectively improve skin quality compared with placebo. Texture was the only skin parameter that significantly improved, which is consistent with PRFM's role as a filler agent. The results appear to persist for at least 6 weeks.