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How to Use Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Skin Rejuvenation and More
Apr 26, 2019
*Disclaimer: Information on Maylips.com is provided for informational purposes only. Self-medication is strictly prohibited. All aesthetic procedures should be provided by the licensed healthcare specialist after the consultation with the personal therapist. The information in this article should not be used for prescribing any medication for the beauty injections.
All brand and medication descriptions in the article are based on the personal opinion and are not endorsed by Maylips.com. The article content was not reviewed for medical validity. Use this article for information and not for a final decision on the procedure.
What is PRP and how is it processed?
Blood is composed of liquid plasma, which is full of red and white blood cells, as well as platelets. Platelets are important due to their role in the blood clotting process because they are rich in growth factors, such as vitamins and hormones, that aid in wound healing. For years, these healing properties have been incorporated into medical procedures. A small blood sample is required to collect the platelets. The blood is centrifuged to separate the platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) from the rest of the blood and all other cells. This separate PRP concentrate is what is actually used in medical and aesthetic procedures.
PRP is used for the treatment of injured athletes. The pain of sprains or tendonitis can be reduced with PRP injections. In a recent study, PRP injections were found to reduce osteoarthritic knee pain more so than saline injections. Recently, these beneficial properties have been, in conjunction with microneedling, incorporated into skin rejuvenating procedures and hair growth treatments.
Who is the PRP treatment for?
Most patients are suitable candidates for PRP and microneedling, as it is a treatment modality that requires very little downtime. The results are essentially tailored to the patient’s skin, as the procedures uses a patient’s own blood. Microneedling is used to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis by creating microscopic injuries with tiny needles; by combining this with PRP, the skin texture and tone are improved, and pores, wrinkles, and scarring are minimized. Overall, it’s an ideal procedure for people interested in exploring the world of aesthetic treatments and looking to improve their complexion.
PRP and microneedling are also novel forms of treatment in hair restoration procedures among male and female patients. It is ideal for those who want to salvage their thinning hair or reduce the appearance of balding. This treatment requires an evaluation in order to determine whether the patient is a suitable candidate. Patients will also receive prescription-strength treatments to use at home after their clinical treatment.
PRP Treatment for Facial Rejuvenation
PRP treatments for the face are commonly referred to as a “vampire facial,” and it has been largely endorsed by celebrities. It is also gaining popularity because it is accessible to regular patients and the results of the treatment are evident almost immediately.
Prior to beginning a PRP facial treatment, patients must complete pertinent paperwork and then have a small sample of blood drawn. Patients may experience light-headedness or dizziness; this is normal and can be rectified with the consumption of water or juice. The blood sample is then processed via centrifugation by the practitioner. Centrifugation entails spinning the blood at high speeds to separate all the components of the blood into different layers according to their weight and density. The blood is further prepared using professional PRP kits. The PRP becomes its own visible layer that can be removed with a syringe. Next, the skin should be thoroughly cleansed, and a numbing agent should be applied. After these steps are complete, the PRP solution is applied to the skin; this is followed by the use of a microneedling pen to go over the skin. The small injuries induced through this step promote collagen production and allow for the PRP solution to seep into the skin. This allows for the healing process to begin and for the anti-inflammatory substances to heal the skin.
Skin will be red and tight after the treatment, but pain usually subsides after 24 hours. After a week, skin may begin to flake heavily, but the initial results of the treatment will start to be evident after about two weeks. Aftercare includes avoiding specific products while the skin heals, such as harsh exfoliators or retinols. Sunlight should also be avoided. Practitioners may also arrange for a second appointment if necessary.
PRP Injections for Hair Regrowth
PRP is used on the scalp similarly to how it is used on the face or body. On the scalp, it is able to stimulate the hair follicles; this increases hair growth and thickness, which is ideal for patients who want to build up hair in patchy areas or regrow hair. A more thorough evaluation is required to determine candidate suitability before the procedure. Otherwise, the steps are similar to the “vampire facial.” A blood sample is drawn and spun via centrifugation to separate the PRP into its own layer. The scalp is then numbed to minimize pain that might occur during injection, and this is followed by the actual injection of the PRP into the scalp. The microneedling device is rolled over the injection site(s) to stimulate collagen production as well as evenly distribute the injected PRP. This may leave the scalp both tender and red for several days.
Patients will be given a prescription for Hair Fortifying RX homecare solutions after the treatment, which must be applied two times daily to the treated areas. The solution additionally supports and stimulates hair growth, which will make for more voluminous results. Optimal results are visible after about three months of treatments and continue to improve over time. Additional treatments aid in the process as well, so patients are typically recommended to undergo four initial treatments once a month and then undergo maintenance treatments every four to six months.
*Disclaimer: Information on Maylips.com is provided for informational purposes only. Self-medication is strictly prohibited. All aesthetic procedures should be provided by the licensed healthcare specialist after the consultation with the personal therapist. The information in this article should not be used for prescribing any medication for the beauty injections.
All brand and medication descriptions in the article are based on the personal opinion and are not endorsed by Maylips.com. The article content was not reviewed for medical validity. Use this article for information and not for a final decision on the procedure.