What is PDGF?
PDGF stands for platelet-derived growth factor—a family of naturally occurring proteins your body releases at an injury site. PDGF signals nearby cells (like fibroblasts) to move in, make fresh collagen and extracellular matrix, and support new blood vessel growth—core steps in healthy repair. PubMed+1
What we use at Opal
We apply ariessence® pure PDGF+, a recombinant (lab-manufactured), sterile PDGF paired with hyaluronic acid as a topical serum immediately after procedures like microneedling or energy-based resurfacing. There’s no blood draw, and the dose is consistent from visit to visit. ariessence markets PDGF+ as a cosmetic topical designed to improve the appearance of the skin (it is not a drug and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease). LRM Aesthetics, Inc.+1
Why that matters: recombinant PDGF gives us a defined, predictable growth factor concentration, whereas PRP/PRF contains a patient-specific mix of many growth factors and varies by health and processing. (PRP has strong evidence in aesthetics, but the exact dose and composition can vary widely.) PMC
How it works with aesthetic procedures
- Microneedling/lasers create micro-channels that temporarily increase skin permeability. Applying growth-factor serums right after can enhance delivery into the upper layers where they act. PMC+2PMC+2
- In clinical studies, topical growth-factor serums used post-microneedling improved visible signs of photoaging vs. controls. PMC+1
- PDGF’s biologic role includes directing fibroblasts, stimulating matrix production, and supporting angiogenesis—the same repair signals aesthetics leverages for smoother texture and improved tone. PubMed+1
What you may notice
Most people feel soothed skin right away post-treatment (thanks to the hyaluronic acid base) and see progressive, natural-looking improvements in texture, glow, and overall skin quality over several weeks as collagen remodels. For best results, we typically recommend a series (e.g., 3 sessions spaced ~4–6 weeks apart), then periodic maintenance based on your goals and plan. LRM Aesthetics, Inc.
PDGF vs. PRP/PRF (quick comparison)
- Source & consistency: PDGF+ = one well-characterized growth factor at a consistent dose; PRP/PRF = your own platelets releasing multiple growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF, etc.), but yields vary by person and kit. PMC
- Evidence base: PRP has substantial clinical evidence for skin rejuvenation and hair restoration; PDGF has robust medical evidence in wound and bone healing, and is increasingly used cosmetically as an adjunct after procedures. PMCFrontiers
- Convenience: PDGF+ requires no blood draw and is applied topically; PRP/PRF requires a blood draw and processing. LRM Aesthetics, Inc.
Safety & regulatory notes (transparent and practical)
- Topical cosmetic use: ariessence states PDGF+ is a cosmetic topical for improving the appearance of skin—not a drug or biologic—and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. We use it post-procedure to support comfort and visible recovery. LRM Aesthetics, Inc.+1
- About FDA approvals: PDGF-BB (the same growth-factor family) is the active ingredient in several FDA-approved medical products—for example, REGRANEX® (becaplermin) gel for certain diabetic foot ulcers and rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP grafts such as GEM 21S® and AUGMENT®/AUGMENT® Injectable for bone indications. Those approvals are for those specific medical uses, not for aesthetics. FDA Access Data+3FDA Access Data+3FDA Access Data+3
- Cancer caution (context): The current REGRANEX label (a prescription PDGF drug for ulcers) lists a contraindication at sites of known cancer and notes malignancies have been reported away from application sites; an earlier boxed warning was removed in 2018. Out of caution, we do not apply PDGF over suspicious lesions or active cancers and will review your history at consult. (This information is about the prescription drug label, not the cosmetic serum, but informs our screening.) FDA Access Data
Who’s a good candidate?
- Anyone seeking smoother texture, improved tone, and post-procedure comfort with minimal downtime.
- Great add-on for microneedling or energy-based treatments to support visible recovery.
- We avoid use over active skin infections, known cancerous lesions, or if you’re pregnant/breastfeeding until we review your situation. FDA Access Data
What happens at your visit
- Cleanse & prepare.
- Topical application after Microneedling/energy based treatment (lasers). Immediate PDGF+ application takes advantage of open micro-channels after your procedure to penetrate deeper into the skin.
- OR for injection: Mixed with bacteriostatic saline, we can inject under the skin for dark and hollow under eyes, hair rejuvenation, acne scarring and more.
- Calm & protect: gentle moisturizers and strict sun protection for several days. If injection technique was used, gentle massage for a few days - 1 week after procedure. PMC
Hair restoration?
Much of the strongest data in hair uses PRP (your own platelets) for androgenetic alopecia. If hair is a goal, we’ll discuss whether PRP (alone or with other therapies) is the best-supported choice for you; PDGF is one important factor within PRP’s broader growth-factor mix. We will review the differences and determine what would be the right option together. FrontiersPMC
PDGF stimulates skin cell turnover, encouraging natural repair and rejuvenation for a fresher, healthier-looking complexion.
By activating growth factors, it promotes collagen and elastin production, helping improve firmness, elasticity, and long-term skin strength.
This treatment refines skin tone and smooths roughness, reducing the appearance of fine lines, enlarged pores, and uneven areas.
PDGF accelerates recovery and enhances skin’s natural healing response, making it especially effective after procedures or for compromised skin.
