Growth factors.
The body's own signalling proteins that control cell division, vessel formation and tissue repair. They are the mechanism of PRP and the reason microneedling stimulates the skin.
Growth factors explained: what PDGF, VEGF, EGF and TGF-β do in skin and hair follicles, how PRP concentrates them
A closer look.
Growth factors are messengers that prompt cells to divide, migrate or produce certain substances. Important ones: PDGF (tissue repair), VEGF (new blood vessels), EGF (renewal of the epidermis), TGF-β (collagen formation) and IGF-1 (hair growth). They are released mainly by platelets when tissue is injured.
PRP uses exactly that: centrifugation concentrates the platelets many-fold and they are introduced where repair is wanted – in the scalp to prolong the growth phase of hair, in facial skin for collagen formation. Microneedling triggers the same cascade through controlled micro-injuries.
Growth factors in creams are mostly recombinant; their molecules are large and penetrate only to a limited extent, so their effect is less well proven. As a rule, growth factors promote cell growth, which is why they are not used in active tumour disease.
This lexicon entry is general information and does not replace the medical consultation required under German law (§ 630e BGB).
At a glance.
A question about Growth factors? Send us a short WhatsApp message – we usually reply the same working day.
Ask via WhatsAppFrequently asked questions.
Are they hormones?
No. Growth factors act locally in tissue, not via the bloodstream like hormones.
How long do they act after PRP?
Release takes days; the regeneration triggered develops over weeks.
Sources and further reading.
- § 630e BGB – duty to inform before treatment (German Civil Code)
- DGBT – German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum Toxin Therapy
- AWMF – German clinical practice guidelines
External links open in a new window; their operators are responsible for their content. Medical responsibility for this page: Katayoun Mostaghimi, specialist in general medicine. Last updated: 2026-10-05.
Talk to the physician.
Book on DoctolibOr simply call: +49 1520 8367711 · info@vivaderm.de
Or start with a consultation only: consultation appointment (€50, credited against a treatment)