Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Harness your skin’s power of renewal.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments address the signs of facial aging by harnessing the natural growth factors contained in platelets, small fragments in your blood that form clots and stop or prevent bleeding. These growth factors can stimulate collagen production and cell regeneration when injected into the skin. The process helps to improve skin texture, elasticity, and volume, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines to yield a rejuvenated look. PRP injections into the scalp have also been shown to improve hair growth and thickness, providing a promising treatment for hair restoration.
Key Benefits of Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment
- Improve Your Skin Texture and Tone
Promote skin cell turnover and healing to reveal a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion. - Use a Natural Approach
Leverage a powerful substance that occurs in your own body to improve the appearance of your skin, without the need for fillers. - Enjoy Results Without Downtime
Help give more elasticity and firmness to your skin with a process that requires very little time for recovery.
PRP injections are not only used for facial rejuvenation; they have also been clinically shown to increase hair thickness. Studies indicate that PRP therapy can stimulate inactive hair follicles into an active growth phase, leading to improved hair density for individuals experiencing hair loss.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments use your own natural growth factors to help rejuvenate your body. When applied for an aesthetic benefit, this regenerative process can reduce fine lines and wrinkles on your face.
The process involves drawing a small amount of blood, similar to the amount drawn in a routine blood test. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge, where it is spun rapidly to isolate the components. Plasma that is laden with concentrated growth factors and platelets is then reintroduced into your facial skin.
The most prevalent technique for utilizing PRP in facial rejuvenation is through a process that combines it with microneedling. With this method, the PRP is first applied topically to the skin, and then the area is treated with a microneedling device, which creates tiny punctures to facilitate the absorption of the plasma, enhancing the skin’s healing and regeneration process.
An alternative method involves injecting PRP with standard needles, much like fillers, to deliver growth factors directly to the deeper layers of the skin, promoting cellular repair. This method can be effective for achieving significant anti-aging benefits.
PRP therapy can also be done in combination with CO2 laser skin resurfacing to improve the appearance of acne scars, deep wrinkles, and fine lines. Combining the two techniques is typically more effective than using either technique alone.
To decide if this treatment is right for you, have a thorough consultation with your physician. Be sure to discuss all attendant risks and benefits.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains a powerful combination of growth factors and proteins, which encourage your skin’s potential to renew itself.
Studies show that PRP can contain over 550 different types of proteins, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ). These natural compounds can stimulate stem cells, activate fibroblasts, synthesize collagen and improve cellular proliferation, differentiation, and regeneration. This leads to skin rejuvenation and hyaluronic acid production that rejuvenates your skin and addresses the signs of aging at their root, not just superficially.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are very safe. As a result of using your own blood, the risk of allergic reactions is significantly diminished when compared to fillers. Common risks of injections with PRP include redness (erythema), swelling (edema), and bruising. These side effects are typically temporary and resolve on their own.
It is crucial to understand that the effectiveness of PRP can vary with age. As we grow older, our body’s ability for tissue regeneration diminishes, growth factor receptors become less responsive, and the production of collagen by fibroblasts decreases. This age-related change can impact the overall effectiveness of PRP treatments in skin rejuvenation, making it essential to have realistic expectations and discuss potential outcomes with your healthcare provider.
Before you go
It is important to notify your physician about any medications you are currently taking, particularly blood thinners, as they might need adjustment to minimize bleeding and bruising risks. Ensure you are well-hydrated and have eaten a light, healthy meal before the session, as this can help with any discomfort or dizziness during the blood draw.
During the procedure
The process begins with your provider drawing a small amount of your blood, similar to the amount drawn in a routine blood test. This blood is then processed to concentrate the platelets. While the PRP is being prepared, your skin will be cleansed and prepared for the substance to be reintroduced. This may be done with standard needles or in combination with microneedling or laser resurfacing.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment Aftercare
Immediately following the treatment, it is normal to experience some redness, swelling, or slight bruising at the injection sites. These symptoms are typically mild and subside within a few days. It is advisable to rest and avoid any vigorous activities for the rest of the day after you receive your treatment. You can generally return to your normal routine the next day, but refrain from strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours.
Follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your doctor, such as applying ice or avoiding certain skincare products. This will support the healing process and enhance the effects of the treatment. Remember, individual responses to PRP therapy can vary, so it is important to monitor your skin’s reaction and keep in touch with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.