If you follow skin trends in the Salt Lake Valley, you have probably heard the buzz about PDGF. At Nervana Medical in Sandy, Utah, we are seeing strong patient interest in biologics and remarkable advances in cellular and molecular technologies to meet those interests… and it just keeps getting better and better, bringing more and more confidence to collagen remodeling. Here is what PDGF is, why it is getting so much attention, and how we use it safely in a medical setting.
What is PDGF
PDGF stands for platelet derived growth factor. It is one of the key signaling molecules naturally released by your own platelets during wound healing. In aesthetics, clinics use a cosmetic PDGF serum after procedures such as microneedling or laser to support the skin’s normal repair processes. Think of it as giving your skin helpful instructions at the right moment and dropping additional back up crews to an army in battle.
Why everyone is talking about it
1. Potent Regenerative Signaling: PDGF is one of the key growth factors released by platelets in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-derived products. It plays a major role in:
- Stimulating fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis
- Recruiting stem cells and other growth factors to the site of injury
Enhancing angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation)
Together, these mechanisms translate into faster healing, thicker dermis, and improved tissue remodeling ; highly desirable in aesthetics (wrinkle reduction, scar improvement, hair restoration).
2. Collagen Amplifier: PDGF works like a collagen amplifier, signaling your skin to produce more collagen and accelerate renewal for smoother, firmer, and more youthful results.
3. From Root to Renewal- PDGF activates growth signals to restore healthier, fuller-looking hair naturally.
4. Comfort and downtime. Many people report that post-procedure tightness feels calmer with a peptide and growth factor based routine.
5. Available as an Add- On- Works with a plan you already have. If you are doing a 3-session series for texture, pores, or early laxity, adding PDGF is a smart upgrade rather than a complete routine overhaul.
6. Non-invasive – no blood draw, and no questions about human donor quality or self donor quality- lab grown consistency.
PRP vs PRF vs EZ Gel vs Exosomes vs PDGF
This is a common question in our Sandy clinic.
- PRP.-Autologous plasma concentrated from your blood. Rich in multiple growth factors, including PDGF. Great option if you prefer fully autologous care and routinely used for the “O” shot and joint injections.
- PRF-Platelet rich fibrin forms a soft matrix that slowly releases growth factors. Useful when a scaffold effect is desired.
- EZ Gel- Autologous albumin gel combined with PRP to stay in place as a bio-filler like support.
- Exosomes- are tiny cell-derived vesicles that deliver signaling molecules to other cells, and in aesthetics they may help reduce inflammation and support collagen and tissue repair after procedures, potentially improving skin texture, tone, and healing.
- PDGF serum. A cosmetic growth factor product used topically after procedures. It does not require a blood draw and can be layered into most microneedling plans. It is the synthetic form of platelet derived growth factors, eliminating factors that donors contribute that may hinder overall results (i.e. age, hydration, health, etc.). It is the perfect “blood diamond”.
There is no one best choice for everyone. For many patients focused on convenience and minimal add-on time, a topical PDGF serum post-needling is an easy yes. For those who want fully autologous options, PRP/PRF/EZ Gel may be preferred. We offer all of these and will help you select the right route for your skin and goals.
Who is a good candidate in Sandy, Utah
- Adults seeking refined texture, a more even look, or early fine line softening
- Acne scar patients planning a series with conservative spacing
- Busy professionals who want predictable recovery with a simple after-care plan
Who should wait or choose another plan
- Active infection, cold sores on the treatment area, or open lesions
- Recent sunburn or tanning, or a history of keloids without a cautious strategy
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active Cancer in treatment area
- Patients with Scleroderma
- Patients with a yeast allergy
Expected timeline
Days 1 to 3. Mild pinkness and a tight, dry feel are common.
Weeks 2 to 4. Smoother feel and a fresher look are often noticeable.
Weeks 4 to 8. Gradual firming as collagen organizes.
Series approach. Most patients choose three sessions spaced 2-3 months apart, with potential maintenance boosters visit annually or bi-annually.
Safety and realistic expectations
PDGF serums used in aesthetics are cosmetic products. They support appearance and the normal healing environment but are not drugs that diagnose, treat, or cure disease. Results vary by depth, skin type, and after-care. For darker skin tones we take extra steps to minimize post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, including careful depth choices, strict SPF, melanocyte suppression and a gentle re-introduction of actives.
Does it hurt? You will feel a sandpapery sensation during microneedling. Most patients rate discomfort as mild and short-lived. We do apply pharmaceutical grade topical numbing, additional options for comfort include nerve blocks and nitrous gas if needed to ensure your comfort.
How much downtime? Expect pinkness for 24 to 48 hours, then a quick return to normal routines with SPF. Can I combine this with retinoids or vitamin C. We hold strong actives for the first week, then reintroduce based on skin tolerance.
How many sessions are typically needed? Typically 2 sessions for skin, (3 if more acne scarring), and 3 sessions for hair restoration; followed by maintenance which will be discussed by your treatment provider.
Is ariessence pure PDGF+ approved by the FDA?
- ariessence® pure PDGF+, is a cosmetic product consisting of proprietary, pure, recombinant, sterile platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and a proprietary blend of sterile hyaluronic acid (HA) for topical use designed to improve the appearance of skin. ariessence is not intended to treat, diagnosis or prevent any disease, or affect the structure or function of the human body
- Accordingly, while ariessence is listed with FDA as cosmetic product (Cosmetic Product Listing Number – 53-171423-311193), like most other cosmetic products, the specific ariessence product has not received, nor does it require approval by FDA
- While ariessence is not FDA approved, the pure PDGF component of ariessence is also present in four (4) medical therapeutic products that are FDA approved. The pure PDGF in ariessence is exactly the same, and from the same manufacturing line and meets the same exacting standards, as the pure PDGF in the 4 FDA approved products*
What are the 4 FDA-approved products that contain pure PDGF?
The following 4 products are different formulations containing PDGF. Each has received the highest level of FDA approval, which requires the most stringent FDA review and approval processes; these processes require pre-clinical and clinical trials providing proof of the safety and effectiveness of the product.
- Augment® Bone Graft
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf10/P100006d.pdf - Augment® Injectable
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf10/P100006S005d.pdf - GEM 21S®
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf4/P040013c.pdf - Regranex® (becaplermin) gel
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/103691s5138lbl.pdf
Do products containing pure PDGF generally require FDA approval?
Not necessarily. Although there are certain FDA-approved products that contain PDGF (see above), these are drug-device combination products and/or are intended for use in the treatment, cure, mitigation, or prevention of disease or intended to affect the structure or functions of the body.
How widespread is the use of pure PDGF?
Over 5 million people are believed to have been treated with PDGF over the past 15 years.
What are the ingredients in ariessence pure PDGF+?
A kit includes syringes of PDGF-BB (ingredients: Water, Sodium Acetate, sh-Polypeptide-59 Dimer aka PDGF-BB) and one vial of sterile, uncrosslinked, high- and low-molecular weight HA (ingredients: Water, Sodium Acetate, Hyaluronic Acid.
Is PDGF well studied?
Yes. PDGF is the most well studied tissue growth factor in regenerative medicine. There are literally thousands of peer-reviewed published studies on PDGF encompassing over 100 clinical trials involving the use of PDGF.
Are there any human components in ariessence pure PDGF+?
No. The pure PDGF in ariessence is made via cutting edge recombinant technology, a highly regulated sterile manufacturing process resulting in pharmaceutical grade PDGF with no human components. It is not derived from any human tissue or cells. Every lot of PDGF meets exacting standards established during the FDA approval process for purity, potency and sterility. This process is similar to how many FDA approved biologic drugs are made today.
AFTER TREATMENT:
- I understand the post topical application aftercare that my provider has given/talked to me about for PDGF-BB
- Do NOT apply any make up or skin care for 24 hours to avoid infection.
- Do NOT participate in heavy exercise for 24 hours to decrease risk of bruising.
- Results are generally visible at 3 weeks and continue to improve gradually over the next 3‐6 months with improvement in texture and tone.
- I understand for best results I should not wash my face off after the PDGF has been applied for 6 hours.
- I understand it may take a series of 2-3 to see best results and I will discuss this with my provider.
Why choose Nervana Medical in Sandy, Utah
Medical oversight with protocols for different skin types, including pigment-safe plans
Full menu of biologic options. PDGF add-on, PRP, PRF, and EZ Gel, so you do not have to fit your skin into one approach. Clear after-care and real follow up. We check in after each session and document progress with standardized photos Local access. Convenient to Sandy, Draper, Cottonwood Heights, South Jordan, and greater Salt Lake City.