Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are a family of signaling proteins involved in critical biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue repair. Their application in treating abrasions is supported by scientific evidence, particularly in the context of wound healing. FGFs, such as basic FGF (bFGF or FGF-2), have been shown in multiple animal and human studies to promote rapid re-epithelialization, enhance granulation tissue formation, and stimulate angiogenesis—all essential for effective wound repair.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that topical application of recombinant human bFGF can accelerate healing in patients with skin abrasions, burns, and other superficial wounds. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (2004) found that topical bFGF significantly reduced healing time for traumatic skin wounds compared to control treatments. Mechanistically, FGFs act by binding to specific FGF receptors on fibroblasts and other cell types in the wound bed, activating intracellular pathways that drive cell migration, proliferation, and extracellular matrix synthesis.

FGFs are now used in certain countries as approved topical medications for wound care, and their use is guided by an expanding body of clinical and preclinical data. However, the quality and size of studies vary, and some regulatory agencies have not approved FGF-based products for all wound types due to concerns about safety and long-term effects. Nevertheless, current evidence strongly supports the efficacy of FGFs in promoting the healing of abrasions and other superficial wounds.