22 Nov Natural Filler Alternatives: The Rise of Blood-Based Injectables in 2024
In 2024, the trend in aesthetic treatments has shifted dramatically—and we’ve seen this demand on the rise at RefinedMD. People no longer desire the traditional dermal fillers like hyaluronic acid to add volume to their lips, cheeks, or under eyes. Instead, the preference is for natural, autologous treatments—those derived from one’s own body. The goal remains the same: fuller, more youthful-looking features without the telltale signs of overfilling or unnatural puffiness. But instead of filling the skin with synthetic substances, people are now seeking treatments that regenerate, restore, and refresh the skin from within. One of the most promising innovations in this space is the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and its newer offshoots, such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and EZ Gel.
The Appeal of Platelets
At the forefront of this movement are platelets, the cells in our blood responsible for clotting and healing. Over the years, platelets have earned their place in the aesthetic world due to their powerful ability to stimulate repair and rejuvenation. By drawing a patient’s blood, separating out the platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and reinjecting it into targeted areas, practitioners can promote collagen production and enhance cell regeneration. Although PRP has been used in orthopedic and dermatological treatments for years, its role in cosmetic medicine is rapidly expanding. PRP is often employed to address signs of aging, stimulate hair growth, and improve overall skin quality.
While PRP has gained attention for its benefits, its results are often temporary, and some patients feel its appeal diminishes due to the addition of non-natural agents like bovine thrombin and calcium chloride. These additives, often used to prevent coagulation during treatment, can interfere with the natural healing process.
Innovations Beyond PRP
The desire for more “natural” alternatives has driven the development of new platelet-based treatments, including platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM), and the latest innovation, EZ Gel. Unlike PRP, PRF and its derivatives are completely autologous, meaning no additives are used in the process. This makes PRF more appealing to those seeking a purer, more natural approach.
PRF stands out from PRP due to its gentler processing method, which leads to the formation of a fibrin scaffold. This scaffold holds the platelets in place longer, allowing them to release growth factors over a week, compared to just a day for PRP. As a result, PRF offers longer-lasting results and more effective skin rejuvenation than its predecessor.
EZ Gel: The Next-Gen Platelet Treatment
Taking PRF one step further, EZ Gel represents the next evolution in natural, blood-based injectables. Created by Dr. Karimi, EZ Gel combines albumin-rich and platelet-rich fibrin with white blood cells to create a bio-filler that enhances both skin quality and texture. What sets EZ Gel apart from other treatments is its ability to offer subtle volume augmentation along with the collagen-boosting benefits that PRP and PRF provide.
The process of creating EZ Gel involves taking two samples of the patient’s blood and spinning them down to extract the plasma. One portion of the plasma is kept cool, while the albumin-rich part is heated to form a gel. The two components are then combined, creating a product that can be injected into areas like the under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds, and marionette lines to restore volume and improve skin texture. Because the gel is created using temperature variations rather than additives, it maintains a fully autologous nature, appealing to those seeking completely natural treatments.
The Promise and Limitations of EZ Gel
Despite its growing popularity, EZ Gel has its limitations. The results will be modest compared to traditional fillers. For those expecting dramatic volume changes, EZ Gel may fall short. Typically, patients will need two to three treatments to achieve optimal results, and even then, they can expect only about 30% of the volume that traditional fillers might provide. However, for those more concerned with skin quality and subtle enhancement, EZ Gel offers a compelling option.
One of the primary advantages of blood-based injectables like EZ Gel is the low risk of allergic reactions or adverse effects. Since the treatment uses a patient’s own cells, complications such as allergic responses are rare. However, as with any injectable, there is a risk of vascular occlusion, which can lead to more severe consequences like tissue damage or blindness if not properly administered. It’s crucial to seek treatment from a qualified and experienced practitioner.
The Research Behind Blood-Based Injectables
While blood-derived treatments like PRF and EZ Gel are becoming more popular, clinical data on their safety and effectiveness for aesthetic purposes is still limited. Much of the research to date focuses on PRF’s wound-healing capabilities rather than its use as a cosmetic injectable. Although small studies have shown improvements in skin quality with PRF, more robust research is needed to fully understand its long-term benefits and risks.
As the demand for more natural, regenerative treatments grows, blood-based injectables like PRP, PRF, and EZ Gel are likely to continue gaining traction. These treatments offer a promising alternative to synthetic fillers, especially for patients looking for subtle, natural enhancements. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential to consult with a reputable practitioner who understands the nuances of blood-based injectables and can guide patients toward the best treatment options for their specific needs. Schedule your consultation at RefinedMD today by calling the office or completing the online form.