PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP)
KEY PURPOSE
Improve skin quality, reduce healing time, reduce dark circles, hair growth
DURATION
3 sessions then yearly maintenance
ONSET
2 weeks +
DOWN TIME
24-48 hours
WHAT IS PLATELET RICH PLASMA AKA PRP?
Platelet rich plasma is derived from your own blood. A blood sample is taken, then spun down in a centrifuge, whereas then the PRP can be extracted. Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood, and platelets are blood cells called to an injured area and is responsible for clotting. PRP contains cytokines, growth factors, healing factors, and proteins.
Is aesthetic medicine, PRP can be injected, microneedled, or stamped into the skin for a variety of cosmetic purposes: skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, scar improvement, under eye darkness, and collagen stimulation.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
As we age, our cells accumulate damage and lose the ability to repair itself (ex. skin that has been exposed to stressors like UV rays, environmental pollutants). Clinically, this looks like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity, skin thinning, texture changes, and scarring. Concentrated platelets activate growth factors that stimulate reparative cells, enhancing the body's natural healing process. Growth factors can also stimulate collagen, an important protein found in all tissues, that degrades as we age. Damaged cells are then regenerated, revealing better skin quality.
WHERE CAN IT BE USED?
PRP is commonly used with microneedling treatments, for hair restoration, under eye rejuvenation, and as a "natural filler".
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PRP microneedling: PRP is pushed into the upper layers of the skin (either by microneedling pen or radiofrequency microneedling) in order to address surface concerns. Combining with the collagen induction properties of microneedling, you will see an improved result and reduced down time. This method is also ideal for treating scars.
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PRP hair restoration: When injected into the scalp, PRP can stimulate hair follicles to grow. This is an excellent treatment option for men and women who are experiencing undesired thinning of hair.
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Under eye rejuvenation: Not everyone is a candidate for under eye filler, and sometimes PRP is a better option. If you have dark circles under your eyes, PRP can increase collagen in this thin-skin area to reduce the show of blood vessels underneath that contribute to darkness.
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"Natural filler": Due to its biostimulatory effects on collagen, some areas of the face can be treated with PRP to boost skin thickness and reduce wrinkling.
IS PRP SAFE?
Yes! PRP is a derivative of your own blood, therefore there is very little chance of reaction. With any procedure, there are certain risks involved and these will be explained to you prior to undergoing the procedure.