Plasma Fibroblast Therapy: Benefits & Risks

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Plasma fibroblast therapy is a skin treatment that might help make your skin look better. A special tool is used to gently harm the skin, which kickstarts a healing process.

This treatment doesn’t involve surgery. Instead, it uses a burst of energy to create a small wound in the skin. This encourages cells called fibroblasts to fix the skin and keep it firm.

Compared to surgery, this procedure is less invasive. That means it’s not as intense and you’ll recover faster. However, the results aren’t as noticeable, and they don’t last as long.

Some doctors might suggest this treatment instead of lasers, injections, or surgery.

But because plasma fibroblast therapy is new, there isn’t much proof yet that it works well.

Keep reading to learn how it works and how much it costs.

What is Plasma Fibroblast Therapy?

Plasma fibroblast therapy is a cosmetic treatment that helps tighten the skin. It’s also known as plasma skin resurfacing, plasma skin regeneration, plasma needling, or plasma lift.

This treatment uses plasma, a hot, gas-like substance, to stimulate fibroblast cells in the deeper layers of the skin. Plasma is often described as the fourth state of matter, alongside solid, liquid, and gas.

Fibroblasts are skin cells that produce collagen, which is essential for skin health. They’re found in the dermis, the layer just beneath the outermost skin layer. Fibroblasts play a key role in wound healing and maintaining skin firmness.

During the therapy, a pen-like device discharges a high-frequency electric current into small areas of the skin, without touching it directly. This current creates tiny holes, known as micro-injuries, in the skin layer.

Research suggests that this therapy:

  • Breaks down skin proteins.
  • Promotes tissue regeneration.
  • Boosts fibroblast activity.
  • Causes skin tightening.

Some healthcare providers may also refer to this treatment as plasma skin resurfacing.

Benefits of Plasma Fibroblast Therapy

Plasma fibroblast therapy is a skin treatment that has some great benefits, as mentioned in a 2022 article. It helps the outer skin layer act as a natural bandage, without hurting deeper layers, which helps with quicker healing. Here are some advantages:

  • It’s precise, targeting specific areas well.
  • The procedure is quick.
  • There’s no bleeding.
  • It causes less damage to surrounding tissues and forms a protective layer fast.
  • Healing happens rapidly.
  • You can go back to your usual routine immediately.
  • It doesn’t leave visible scars or cause skin darkening.
  • There’s a low risk of infection, pain, or inflammation.

People find it tolerable, effective, and affordable, according to the article. Additionally, a 2019 study suggests that the heat from a plasma pen can:

  • Boost fibroblast activity.
  • Help tissue grow back.
  • Break down skin proteins.
  • Tighten tissue.

A 2014 article in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology suggests that its effects can stimulate fibroblast production for up to a year after treatment.

Though it’s a newer procedure, a small 2007 study on eight participants showed promising results. After treatments every 3 weeks, there was a 37% reduction in facial wrinkles and a 68% overall improvement in appearance.

Side Effects of Plasma Fibroblast Therapy

Plasma fibroblast therapy is a skin-tightening procedure like other non-surgical methods such as intense pulsed light, microcurrent facial, and high intensity focused ultrasound facial. It needs regulation by medical boards and FDA approval.

While early research shows promise, the FDA warns that this therapy isn’t yet cleared or approved for any skin-enhancing procedure.

There have been reports of serious side effects, including:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Mild hypopigmentation (light spots)
  • Mild hyperpigmentation (dark spots)
  • Skin peeling and crusting

A case report from 2020 also highlighted potential chemical injuries from local anesthetics used during the procedure.

This treatment might not be suitable for:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Those using isotretinoin for severe acne
  • People with systemic conditions
  • Those with infections or open wounds at the treatment site
  • People with body dysmorphia
  • People with weakened immune systems or autoimmune conditions
  • Those prone to scarring

Anyone considering this treatment should consult a healthcare professional for more information.

What to Expect during the Procedure?

The procedure might vary depending on where you receive the treatment, but here’s the general rundown:

  • Preparation: Your skin will be cleaned, and a numbing cream will be applied. You might wait around 30 minutes for it to work.
  • Treatment: The plasma pen will be used on the designated skin area, creating tiny scab-like dots with small electric currents.
  • Aftercare: After the procedure, the numbing cream will be wiped off, and a cooling gel will be applied to ease any tingling or burning sensations.
  • Duration: The whole process typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes.

Afterward, you can expect the little dots to scab over and fall off within about a week. As your skin heals over the next few weeks, it should look tighter and firmer.

Some people might notice results after just one treatment, while others might need up to three sessions to see a difference.

How Much Does Plasma Fibroblast Therapy Cost?

The price of plasma fibroblast therapy can vary based on several factors. This includes who is performing the treatment and the specific area being targeted, including its size.

According to the Aesthetic Society, skin-tightening procedures can cost around $760. On the other hand, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests that nonsurgical skin tightening averages at $2,456.

However, plasma fibroblast therapy tends to be more affordable, with a single session typically ranging around $500.

Before getting the treatment, you might consult your healthcare provider about the number of sessions needed for results and if the fee covers everything, like numbing creams.

How to Find a Cosmetic Provider for Plasma Fibroblast Therapy

Currently, there isn’t a single place to search for providers offering plasma fibroblast therapy. However, you can look for trusted healthcare providers on the following websites:

  • The Aesthetic Society
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
  • American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons

When you reach out to these providers, inquire if they offer plasma fibroblast therapy.

Make sure to ask them:

  • How many treatments they’ve done before
  • Their methods for reducing side effects
  • How they maintain cleanliness and sterilize equipment

The Bottom Line

Plasma fibroblast therapy is a newer method with limited evidence on its effectiveness.

It offers a way to tighten skin without invasive procedures.

Recovery typically takes about a week, with noticeable results appearing over several weeks.

You may consult a healthcare provider to discuss if plasma fibroblast therapy is suitable for you and what to expect from the procedure.

Looking for professional skincare advice? Schedule an online consultation with dermatologist Dr. Ava Patel to address your concerns.

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