Growth factors are produced by the stem cells as well as from platelets in the blood stream. There are many types of growth factors, which can be human-derived, synthetically derived, or naturally derived (such as from plants or snails). Growth factors gathered from blood (PRP) in a centrifuge are actually more potent than the growth factors released from stem cells in the body.
Skin concerns
- Laxity
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Skin regeneration
- Collagen production
- Wound healing
Benefits
- Anti-aging
- Softening fine line
- Skin regeneration
- Skin tissue repair
- Laxity
- Collagen production
- Softening wrinkles
- Skin tightening
- Skin firmness
- Skin elasticity
- Skin brightening
- Skin hydration
- Wound healing
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Skin cancer
- Photosensitizing Medications
PRP seems to be showing us promising results for regenerative medicine. However, you have to think of stem cells being the superior product as they can begin a new growth process and PRP is speeding up the repair.
Both PRP and Stem Cells are thought to “regenerate” the skin and are not mutually exclusive.
FAQ’s
What are growth factors?
Growth factors are proteins that act as signaling molecules for different pathways in the skin. They communicate and send messages to various cells and regulate all kinds of processes, including cellular development, repair, division, and differentiation. They’re particularly beneficial for wound healing.
Where growth factors come from?
Growth factors are derived from animals including cows, pigs and even snails. The majority of topical products use either lab growth factors (recombinant) or plant-derived growth factors. Less common is the use of human-derived growth factors.
What can growth factors do for your skin?
There are two specific types of growth factors that have been shown effectiveness in skin care—epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF). These can stimulate collagen synthesis, improve elasticity, and promote skin cell proliferation, leading to a more youthful appearance with fewer wrinkles and improved texture.
Growth factors are really beneficial for women who are perimenopausal or in their mid-40s, when collagen and elastin production are really starting to slow down.
Where growth factors are incorporated?
Topically applied growth factors have a large molecule that don’t penetrate the skin barrier. That’s why they are often used in conjunction with laser resurfacing, fractional resurfacing or microneedling treatments, when the outer layer of the skin is compromised and they’re better able to penetrate. However, several clinical studies, over the past 15 years, have highlighted the benefits of topically applied growth factor products showing improvements in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, texture, and discoloration. Combinations of growth factors with antioxidants (Vitamin C) and peptides(cytokines) tend to show results sooner, typically within 4–8 weeks.
Utilizing platelet-rich plasma (PRP) — either via injections or in combination with microneedling—is one of the most effective ways to ensure growth factors can actually get into your skin, as PRP contains several different kinds.
How to choose growth factor skin-care products?
If the thought of using animal-derived growth factors makes you squeamish, pick an option that contains plant-derived ones. Active, lightweight serums will both absorb better and contain higher concentrations of the ingredient than will richer creams.
