A PRP facial is a type of cosmetic treatment that involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the face. PRP is a component of blood that contains growth factors and other proteins that can promote healing.
What is Blood Plasma?
Plasma is the liquid part of your blood that’s mostly made of water and protein. It lets red and white blood cells and platelets move through your bloodstream.
What are Blood Platelets?
Platelets are a type of blood cell that makes your blood clot. They also play a role in healing.
PRP Procedure
To collect plasma, our Lead Specialist draws blood from your body and uses a machine (Centrifuge) to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. Then the he numbs the area being treated with PRP injections. Once you’re numb, he then uses a needle to inject your plasma into the area of your body being treated.
How PRP works
Once platelets are in the facial skin that’s being treated, they break down and release growth factors, which are compounds that help cells repair and renew. This then trigger your body’s healing process.
PRP benefits:
- Treats scars
- Treats sun damage
- Reverses signs of aging like wrinkles & fine-lines
- Treats sun damage
- Treats hair loss
PRP Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is PRP?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is an injectable treatment by which a person’s own blood is used. Platelets are vital in the process of tissue healing, and the growth of new cells. PRP thereby promotes collagen production, regenerates the skin tissue, and essentially re-energizes your cells into rejuvenating themselves. The release of growth factors amphiphiles the healing process. PRP softens fine lines and wrinkles, tightens the skin, and improves skin tone and texture.
2. How is PRP administered?
The treatment of PRP involves a fraction of blood, collected or ‘drawn up’ from the individual patient into a syringe. The collected blood is then spun down in a special centrifuge to separate its components. The platelet rich plasma is then reinjected, and/or micro-needled back into the skin.
4. How long does a PRP treatment take?
Typically, a PRP treatment takes between an hour or two to complete. This depends on if the PRP is administered through injections only, and/or micro-needled into the skin. This timeframe includes an additional 30 minutes for the blood to be drawn and spun in the centrifuge, and topical numbing to be applied.
5. Do PRP injections hurt?
Some mild discomfort may be felt while the PRP is being reinjected. The sensation typically felt is a burning or tingling sensation. This sensation only lasts a few minutes after the PRP injected. We ensure our patients are comfortable throughout the entire PRP treatment and apply topical numbing cream and ice to aid any discomfort.
6. When will I begin to see results from a PRP treatment?
Generally, patients notice tightening and a more even tone to their skin in a week or two after PRP injections. These results continue to build for up to 6 months after treatment.
7. How long do results from PRP injections last?
Results from PRP injections can be seen for many years after treatment. However, these results vary due to the individual’s natural variation in quality of Platelet Rich Plasma, as well as their lifestyle. While we cannot stop the aging process, we can slow it down. Results from PRP injections can be extended with proper at home skincare maintenance.
8. What areas can I treat with PRP injections?
Technically, PRP can used to treat area of the body. For cosmetic purposes, PRP is most popularly used to treat the face and neck.
9. Is there any downtime associated with PRP?
There is no downtime associated PRP injections. However, after your treatment, your skin may be red. This is normal and to be expected. Redness usually lasts from one to 24 hours. You may also have a little swelling in some areas. Due to this, some patients like to be treated towards the end of the week, so they have the weekend to recover. Healing time varies from patient to patient. Healing may take longer if PRP injections are paired with micro-needling.
10. How many PRP treatments will I need?
Results can be seen after one treatment, but the exact amount of treatments needed varies from patient to patient. Generally, 2‐3 treatments are advised, but more may be indicated for some individuals.
11. Are there any side effects or possible risks to PRP injections?
PRP used for aesthetic procedures are safe for most individuals. There are very few contraindications with PRP injections. The most common side effects associated with PRP injections are mild to moderate swelling and redness.
12. Who is NOT a candidate for PRP injections?
During your consultation, and assessment will be made to ensure you are the right candidate for PRP injections. Patients with certain health conditions are not a candidate for PRP injections. Patients who are pregnant are not candidates for PRP injections.
