Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for Skin Rejuvenation
Simple Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
The treatment nicknamed “The Vampire Facial” was made famous by Kim Kardashian in 2013 and introduced most people to Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). Yet the concept of using a part of your own blood for tissue regeneration was not that new at all. By that time PRP had been widely used in orthopaedics, sports medicine, plastic surgery, and wound care for many years. It was only a matter of time before this inventive treatment would become popular in aesthetic medicine.
But what is the logic behind this? How does this even work?
At the site of any injury, platelets are the first responders. Platelets stop bleeding by clumping together and activating the process of blood clotting. However, they also release platelet-derived growth factors (sometimes called cytokines) that promote healing of the area. In the aesthetics field, we are interested in growth factors because they are necessary to repair ageing and damaged skin, stimulate cell growth and build new collagen. Using the patient’s own platelets and growth factors in concentrated and activated form is safe with no risk of immune or allergic reactions.
How are these platelets prepared? Does it take long?
Two small tubes of blood are taken from the patient as with normal blood tests. This blood is then prepared on-site. First it is put in a centrifuge machine to separate into layers, while a local anaesthetic is applied to the patient’s treatment area. The doctor extracts the light-yellow platelet rich plasma layer and mixes it in a vial with activators from a special kit to release the growth factors. The entire preparation process takes about 30 minutes. Now this vial of PRP is ready to be used.
What happens then? How will it be used?
The PRP will be introduced into several layers of the skin, first with microneedling (see our Dermapen page), then with a mesotherapy technique to reach the deeper part of the skin, especially the problem areas. This is done by an experienced aesthetic therapist. Sometimes the doctor will also inject the deeper wrinkles almost like a filler. If there is any PRP left, the patient can take it home to apply as aftercare. When the PRP dries the skin might feel tight, but it is important not to wash it off until the next morning.
What results can I expect? How will I benefit from this?
Immediately after the treatment you can expect redness, slight swelling, bumps and tightness, which resolves within the next day. Although there might not be an instant plumping effect like with treatments where hyaluronic acid is used, you can anticipate refined skin texture and increased firmness in about three weeks. Fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin tone could also improve after a few treatments. Results are long-lasting and can last up to a year.
How often should I do PRP? Can I combine PRP with other treatments?
The experts say that the best results will be obtained if two treatments are done 2-4 weeks apart, and thereafter every four months. We recommend that you continue to do your monthly Dermapen or chemical peel or other collagen stimulating treatments, like Exilis, in between. PRP can be combined with any other treatment, although Botox and fillers should be done 1-2 weeks before or after the treatment.
In our center we use PRP as a skin (face, neck, décolletage, hands, scars and stretch marks) treatment only, but PRP can also be used for hair loss, sports injuries, and intimate area rejuvenation in both females and males. If you would like to enquire about these alternate treatments, we will gladly refer you to the experts in the respective fields.
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