ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The study of the use of growth factors in conjunction with microneedling is limited. It is hypothesized that the use of human growth factors will decrease recovery time by downregulating inflammation and will continue stimulating collagen synthesis initiated by microneedling. OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of microneedling in combination with a novel human recombinant growth factor regenerative complex (PolyGF) for skin improvement. METHODS: This study was a randomized controlled trial evaluating changes in multiple skin parameters via provider, imaging, and patient self-assessments after four microneedling treatments, each spaced one month apart, with or without a novel growth factor. Twenty female patients aged 35 to 60 years were included. Evaluation parameters included fine lines and wrinkles, evenness of skin tone, skin clarity, age spots, skin smoothness, skin firmness, and hydration of skin via dermatologic Canfield VISIA (Fairfield, New Jersey) imaging, and patient self-assessment. RESULTS: Significant improvement in skin texture was reported to higher degrees for the PolyGF group by VISIA imaging assessments than in the control group. Subjective assessments in skin smoothness and hydration were significantly improved in the Poly GF groups. Hydration improvements were seen to a lesser degree in the control group. Improvements in firmness and texture were seen in both the PolyGF and control groups by subjective assessment. Significantly improved subjective assessments of skin tone and melanin index were reported only in the control groups. CONCLUSION: While microneedling improved skin in several parameters, the addition of the novel growth factor to microneedling helped improve skin texture and hydration to a higher degree. Further studies are needed to characterize the effects of growth factor serum in conjunction with microneedling.
