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The Science of Radiance: Why We Brought PDGF+ to Refine Aesthetics

By Courtney Gill, Founder of Refine Aesthetics

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt like your under-eyes didn’t reflect how vibrant you feel inside… you’re not alone. For so many of our clients, the under-eye area is the first place they notice changes: hollowing, dark circles, fine lines, and a general dullness that no amount of concealer can cover.

As a provider and as someone who personally values natural-looking, medically sound results, I’ve spent years looking for the right solution. That’s why we’re so excited to offer a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment that’s taking the aesthetics world by storm: PDGF+ (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor).

This treatment is not a filler, not a laser, and not a trend. It’s a science-backed, FDA-approved innovation in skin rejuvenation — and it’s become one of our most powerful tools for under-eye repair and collagen restoration.

What Exactly Is PDGF+?

PDGF+ stands for Platelet-Derived Growth Factor, a regenerative protein that plays a vital role in cell proliferation, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and tissue repair. In other words: it tells your skin to heal, strengthen, and regenerate — naturally.

While your body produces PDGF on its own, what makes Pure PDGF+ so unique is that it’s been biotechnologically engineered (recombinant PDGF) to deliver predictable, potent, and clinically effective results. This version of PDGF+ is:

  • Lab-purified for stability and safety
  • FDA-cleared for aesthetic and dermatologic use
  • Designed for targeted collagen and elastin stimulation

And it’s especially effective in areas where the skin is thinner and more fragile, like the under-eyes: also known as the tear troughs.

Why We Chose PDGF+ for Under-Eye Rejuvenation

At Refine, we specialize in creating customized facial rejuvenation plans, and one of the most common concerns we treat is the under-eye area. Over time, this delicate skin loses volume, hydration, and structure, which can make you look tired — even when you’re not.

PDGF+ offers a non-surgical solution to some of the most stubborn under-eye concerns, including:

  • Hollowing or sunken tear troughs
  • Dark circles caused by thinning skin
  • Fine lines and crepiness
  • Loss of elasticity and hydration
  • Overall dullness or texture issues

What’s more, it works beautifully on its own or in combination with microneedling, which enhances absorption and stimulates even more collagen production.

PDGF+ vs. PRF vs. PRP: What’s the Difference?

You might be wondering how PDGF+ compares to PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) — both of which are also used in regenerative aesthetics.

Here’s the breakdown:

With PDGF+, you get consistent, clinically purified growth factors in every dose — making it ideal for clients who want results without the variability of blood-based treatments.

The Science of Results: What PDGF+ Stimulates

One of the reasons we brought PDGF+ to our Austin med spa is because of the way it works at a cellular level. When applied to the skin, PDGF+ initiates a cascade of regenerative processes, including:

  • Fibroblast activation – These are the cells that produce collagen and elastin
  • Angiogenesis – Formation of new blood vessels to nourish the skin
  • Epidermal thickening – Restores the plump, hydrated look of youthful skin
  • Tissue remodeling – Smooths fine lines, improves texture, and firms skin

All of this happens without surgery, with minimal to no downtime, and results continue to improve over a few weeks as your skin responds.

What to Expect from a PDGF+ Treatment

Your journey begins with a personalized consultation. If PDGF+ is right for you, we’ll discuss whether to pair it with microneedling or apply it topically after other skin treatments.

Here’s what the process looks like:

  • Cleansing & Prep – We prep your skin for full absorption.
  • Microneedling (optional) – Tiny microchannels are created to boost efficacy.
  • PDGF+ Application – The serum is applied to the under-eye area and gently massaged in.
  • Recovery – You’ll be pink for a few hours. Most clients resume normal activity the same day.

Results develop gradually as your skin begins to repair and rebuild, with many clients noticing brighter, smoother, more hydrated skin within 1–3 treatments.

Bonus: PDGF+ Isn’t Just for Under Eyes

While we love it for tear trough rejuvenation, PDGF+ can also be used on:

  • Smile lines and marionette folds
  • Forehead lines and fine creases
  • Neck and décolletage
  • Scalp and hair restoration (yes, it even supports hair growth by stimulating the hair follicles)

Why PDGF+ Aligns with Refine Aesthetics’ Philosophy

When I founded Refine Aesthetics, I set out to create a med spa that blends artistry, science, and soul. Our clients want results, but they also want to feel safe, supported, and understood. We’re not here to sell fads — we’re here to deliver beautiful, thoughtful outcomes that enhance your natural features.

PDGF+ is the kind of treatment I personally believe in: it’s regenerative, safe, backed by research, and designed to support the skin from within — no drastic changes, just elevated confidence.

Ready to Experience PDGF+ for Yourself?

If you’re ready to explore under-eye rejuvenation, or simply want to learn more about how Pure PDGF+ can work for you, we invite you to book a consultation at our Austin clinic.

Let’s create a treatment plan that brings your natural radiance forward,
-Courtney Gill, PA-C and CEO

Book your appointment today at Refine Aesthetics — Austin’s premier destination for non-surgical facial rejuvenation.

Request Info (512) 375-3386