Cell-Free Blood Cell Secretome (BCS) Counteracts Skin Aging and Restores Firmness and Elasticity.

Abstract

Blood Cell Secretome, BCS (also Autologous Conditioned Serum, ACS) is efficacious in treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. It contains inflammation resolving cytokines, growth factors, exosomes, and lipid mediators. Skin aging is associated with reduced TGF-ß signaling and collagen synthesis and chronic (sub-acute) inflammation, among other factors. Pre-clinically, BCS counteracts these mechanisms, suggesting it as a treatment against cutaneous aging. This 24-week study evaluated the effects of deep dermal to immediate sub-dermal micropuncture injections of cell-free BCS in patients with age-related reduced facial skin elasticity. In this prospective, single-armed, mono-center study, 21 women underwent 4 BCS treatment sessions over 12 weeks with follow-up at 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was skin elasticity measured by cutometry. Secondary endpoints were safety, skin hydration, and aesthetic assessments using global aesthetic improvement scale. Skin firmness increased significantly between baseline and 12 weeks (P<0.001) and further increased by 24 weeks (P<0.001). Skin tiring was congruently reduced (P<0.001). Skin hydration and aesthetic ratings improved significantly. No BCS-related adverse reactions occurred. BCS treatment resulted in increased firmness and hydration, usually attributed to younger skin. BCS is potentially the first cell-free autologous therapy for skin rejuvenation derived from patients’ own blood. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(6):682-688. doi:10.36849/JDD.5018.