THE EFFICACY OF THE COMBINATION OF INTENSE PULSED LIGHT THERAPY AND PLATELET-RICH PLASMA WITH PLATELET-RICH PLASMA ALONE FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION

Abstract

Skin aging is a multifactorial process characterized by collagen degradation, reduced elasticity, wrinkle formation, and impaired barrier function. This randomized split-face clinical trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of combined intense pulsed light (IPL) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy compared with PRP monotherapy for facial rejuvenation in 12 healthy participants aged 25–45 years with grade 2–3 wrinkles. Each participant received IPL plus PRP on one side of the face and PRP alone on the contralateral side at four-week intervals for three sessions. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12 using VISIA® wrinkle analysis, Cutometer® for skin viscoelasticity, Tewameter® for transepidermal water loss (TEWL), Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), patient satisfaction scores, and adverse-event monitoring. The combination therapy demonstrated significantly greater improvements in wrinkle scores, skin viscoelasticity, and TEWL reduction compared with PRP alone (p < 0.05), along with enhanced collagen remodeling and improved overall skin tone. Higher GAIS and patient satisfaction scores were observed in the IPL+PRP group. Adverse effects were mild and transient, with no serious complications reported. These findings suggest that combination therapy is a safe and more effective non-invasive treatment than monotherapy for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Keywords: Intense Pulsed Light, Platelet-rich Plasma, Facial Rejuvenation, Skin Aging, Wrinkle Reduction