Overview
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facial rejuvenation utilizes your own blood to promote collagen production and trigger growth factors. This innovative treatment combines microneedling with a plasma serum, resulting in skin that looks younger, smoother, and overall healthier. Often referred to as “vampire facials,” PRP treatments have become a popular anti-aging solution due to their safety and effectiveness in revitalizing the skin.
By stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, PRP facials enhance skin texture and tone, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, with the skin showing the most obvious signs. If you have wrinkles and facial lines you'd like to diminish without resorting to surgery, the vampire facial or PRP facial may be the solution you’re looking for.
The Science Behind PRP
PRP facials gained popularity alongside advancements in plastic surgery, particularly for their significant role in wound healing. With a high concentration of platelets, PRP promotes the formation and release of growth factors and active proteins that facilitate healing. As a result, PRP has become a widely recognized option for facial skin rejuvenation.
Addressing Common Questions
When our experts perform PRP facials, many clients come in with numerous questions. They often encounter a mix of rumors, facts, myths, and sometimes misleading information about these innovative skin-rejuvenation treatments. The best way to tackle this misinformation is by providing you with the cold facts about Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) facials.
It’s always wise to educate yourself about any treatment you are considering. Understanding the advantages, disadvantages, costs, and other essential details can help you make an informed decision. Here’s the lowdown on PRP facials:
Skin Aging and Facial Rejuvenation
Skin aging results from intrinsic processes influenced by genetic factors and extrinsic factors shaped by environmental influences such as sun exposure, air pollution, smoking, alcohol abuse, and poor nutrition. Physical appearance not only affects self-esteem and personality but also impacts one's acceptance by others. As a result, there has been increasing interest in facial rejuvenation, with a growing emphasis on exploring more effective modalities. Non-operative aesthetic facial rejuvenation procedures, in particular, are in high demand.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been employed to accelerate wound healing and tissue regeneration across various medical fields over the past several years. Since PRP contains numerous growth factors, it has been studied for its potential in skin rejuvenation applications.
PRP can be administered through various methods, including topical application, direct intradermal injections, or as an adjunct to other procedures such as laser treatments or microneedling.
Several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of this innovative treatment modality. However, there is currently no research regarding the rejuvenation effects of PRP in different areas of facial skin in Iran. Therefore, this study aims to assess the efficacy of PRP injections for treating periorbital dark circles, crow’s feet, and nasolabial folds.
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrated form of plasma that contains a significantly higher number of platelets—5 to 10 times greater than normal blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and contain growth factors that are crucial for healing injuries.
Preparation of PRP:
- Blood Draw: A blood sample is taken from the patient.
- Centrifugation: The sample is spun in a centrifuge, which separates platelets from other blood components, concentrating them in the plasma.
- Injection:The resulting PRP is injected into the area of injury to stimulate healing.
PRP is believed to promote the regeneration of new cells and enhance tissue repair, making it a popular treatment among athletes for injury recovery. However, its efficacy is still under investigation, and it is not FDA-approved as a standard treatment.
PRP Benefits for Facial Rejuvenation
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy offers several advantages for enhancing facial aesthetics, particularly for those with wrinkles, sun damage, or scars:
- Stimulates Collagen and Elastin Production:
- Reduces Wrinkles:
- Improves Skin Texture and Tone:
- Addresses Scarring:
- Combination Treatments:
PRP encourages the production of these proteins, improving skin elasticity and firmness.
The treatment helps diminish fine lines and deeper wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
PRP enhances overall skin texture, creating a smoother and more even complexion.
It effectively reduces the visibility of scars, including acne scars, by promoting healing and collagen formation.
For deeper wrinkles, PRP can be paired with hyaluronic acid fillers to restore volume and neuromodulators (like Botox®) to relax muscles, further enhancing results.
PRP therapy not only provides immediate benefits but also offers continued improvements for up to 18 months after treatment.
How PRP Works
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes a concentrated form of platelets and plasma derived from your blood to promote skin healing and rejuvenation. The process involves:
- 1.Blood Collection: A small vial of blood is drawn from your arm.
- 2.Centrifugation: The vial is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma from red and white blood cells, concentrating the platelets.
- 3.Application:The resulting PRP can be applied in various ways to address skin concerns:
- Topical Application:Applied directly to the skin like a serum.
- Microneedling:Used in combination with microneedling to enhance absorption by creating tiny micro-injuries in the skin.
- Injectable Treatment:Injected directly into the skin, similar to fillers.
The growth factors in PRP stimulate collagen and elastin production, rejuvenating the skin and restoring volume.
PRP Facial Methods
- 1.Microneedling with PRP:
- 2.Vampire Facial (PRP Injection):
PRP is spread on the face, and microneedling creates small holes to enhance absorption. Both methods promote collagen growth.
PRP is injected into the skin like a filler, targeting skin issues from beneath and on the surface. Some studies have shown improvements in areas treated with PRP compared to saline injections.
Both methods aim to enhance skin texture, reduce fine lines, and restore volume through the body’s natural healing processes.
Am I a Good Candidate for a PRP Facial?
You may be a good candidate for the PRP Facial if you experience any of the following concerns:
- Uneven Skin Tone: PRP can help create a more balanced appearance.
- Hyperpigmentation:It addresses dark spots caused by sun damage and other factors.
- Acne Scars:PRP stimulates collagen production, reducing the visibility of scars.
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles:The treatment effectively diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, restoring a youthful look.
PRP Treatment Instructions
Pre-Treatment Instructions
- Accutane: Do not use Accutane for the past 6 months.
- Topical Agents:Avoid topical agents that may increase skin sensitivity for 5-7 days before treatment, including:
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications:Do not take anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil) for 3 days prior to treatment. These can interfere with the natural inflammatory process necessary for skin rejuvenation.
- Sun Exposure:Avoid IPL/Laser procedures and unprotected sun exposure or sunburn for 2 weeks before treatment.
- Hair Removal:
- Cold Sores:If you are prone to cold sores, take an antiviral agent for 2 days prior and on the day of treatment. Call the office for a prescription at 224-432-5803 (Glenview) or 312-638-4979 (Chicago).
- Bruising Risk:Bruising is common with PRP injections. Avoid blood-thinning agents (aspirin, fish oil, Omega-3, Vitamin E) for 1 week prior; you may resume these medications the day after treatment.
- Contraindications:Treatment is not advised if you are:
Retinoids
Topical antibiotics
Exfoliants and acids (e.g., AHA, BHA, salicylic acid)
Hydroquinone
Benzoyl peroxide acne products
No waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis in the treatment area for 5-7 days prior.
Avoid shaving on the day of the procedure. If dense hair is present, shave the area the day before your appointment.
Pregnant
Experiencing actively infected or inflamed skin
Prone to keloid scars
Allergic to topical lidocaine
Suffering from cystic acne in the treatment area
Sunburned
Day of Treatment
- Hydration: Drink at least 1 liter of water. Avoid caffeine on the day of treatment.
- Nutrition: Eat at least 1 hour prior to the procedure.
- Exercise: If you have a history of difficulty finding veins for blood draws, exercise on the morning of the procedure to increase blood flow.
- Skin Preparation: Arrive with clean skin—no lotion, oil, makeup, powder, perfume, or sunscreen. You may wash your face in the office upon arrival.
- Medical History: Inform your provider of any relevant changes in your medical history and list all medications you are taking.
- Cosmetic Tattoos: Notify your provider of any cosmetic tattoos in the treatment area.
- Topical Anesthetic: A topical lidocaine will be applied in the office for up to 30 minutes before treatment if you are treating skin. For scalp treatments, a scalp block with lidocaine injections can be offered.
- Combining Treatments: If you are combining micro-needling with PRP, your blood will be drawn in the office while you are numbing.
Post-Treatment Instructions
- Skin Care: If you received PRP treatment on the skin, your healthcare provider will apply a hyaluronic mask for 5-10 minutes and moisturizer immediately after your micro- needling procedure. If you received PRP treatment on the scalp, do not wash your hair for 24 hours and avoid hair products (styling foam, hairspray, etc.) for 72 hours post- treatment.
- Pain Management: Do not take anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil) for 1 week. Do NOT ice your face or use arnica or bromelain, as these agents may interfere with the natural inflammatory process crucial for skin rejuvenation.
- Sun Exposure: Avoid sun tanning and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight for 2 weeks. After 24 hours, always use a full-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or above). When exposed to sunlight, wear a hat and reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
- Pain Relief: Use Tylenol as needed for any soreness.
- Dietary Recommendations: Consider the following for optimal healing:
- Avoid: Dairy, wheat, and sugar.
Fresh pineapple
Tart cherry juice (no sugar)
Salmon (omega-3 fish oil)
Bone broth-based soups
Continue taking collagen supplements (e.g., Collagen MD Advanced Connective Tissue Support Formula) for 2 weeks.
Important Note
It is normal to experience bruising, redness, itching, soreness, and swelling that may last from 3- 10 days following your procedure. The final results depend on several factors, including treatment aggressiveness, adherence to the post-treatment care regimen, nutrition, and overall health.
Before and After Results of PRP Facials
Before PRP Facial:
- Skin Texture: Often shows signs of uneven texture, with visible pores and rough areas.
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Noticeable fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
- Skin Tone: May appear dull or uneven, with discoloration or dark spots.
- Sagging Skin: A loss of firmness or elasticity, leading to a slightly sagging appearance.
After PRP Facial:
- Improved Skin Texture: The skin feels smoother and softer with a more refined texture.
- Reduction in Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Noticeable softening of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to a more youthful appearance.
- Even Skin Tone: Enhanced skin tone, with reduced discoloration and a brighter complexion.
- Diminished Acne Scars: Improved appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more uniform skin surface.
- Tighter Skin: Increased firmness and elasticity, leading to a lifted appearance, especially around the cheeks and jawline.
- Radiant Glow: A healthy, natural glow due to increased collagen production and improved blood circulation.
Conclusion
Overall, patients typically see significant improvements in their skin’s appearance and texture after undergoing PRP facials, making it a popular choice for those looking to rejuvenate their skin and combat the signs of aging. The results can vary based on individual skin types and conditions, but many experience a noticeable transformation.
PRP is a treatment that utilizes a patient's own blood to extract platelets, which promote healing and tissue regeneration, improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles.
A small blood sample is drawn, processed in a centrifuge to separate components, and then the platelet-rich plasma is injected or microneedled into the treatment area.
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, including blood draw, centrifugation, and application of topical numbing.
Patients may notice improvements within 1-2 weeks, with continued enhancement over 6 months.
Results can last several years, but longevity varies by individual and can be extended with proper skincare.
PRP is commonly used for the face and neck, but it can be applied to various body areas.
No significant downtime is expected, but redness and swelling may occur, typically resolving within 24 hours.
Most patients benefit from 2-3 initial treatments, with additional sessions recommended based on individual needs.
PRP injections are generally safe, with minimal risks like mild swelling or redness.
Patients who are pregnant, have cancer, or blood clotting disorders are not suitable candidates.
This procedure combines microneedling with PRP to enhance skin healing and improve texture, reducing wrinkles and scars.
Commonly treated conditions include osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, muscle tears, and chronic pain.
Most insurers consider PRP experimental and do not cover it, but initial consultations are usually covered.
Usually, PRP procedures are scheduled separately from the initial consultation to allow for a thorough assessment and discussion of treatment options.