What’s All the Hype about PRP?
PRP stands for “platelet rich plasma,” which is a natural blood component that contains an abundance of natural growth factors. It helps the blood to clot; supports the growth of new, healthy cells; and promotes healing. It has been used for facials, sports injuries, hair loss, and many other rejuvenating or healing procedures.
How does a PRP facial treatment rejuvenate the skin?
PRP treatments, along with microneedling, improve blood flow, increase the body’s production of collagen and elastin, and promote the growth of new cells to improve skin tone, increase elasticity, and smooth fine lines. It also works to reduce the look of scarring, all of which can help limit the signs of aging and restore the youthful, radiant complexion of youthful skin.
What is the procedure for PRP therapy?
Here are the steps of the PRP injection therapy:
- Your physician will withdraw a small sample of your own blood, usually from your arm. As it is your own blood, there is virtually no risk of the possibility of an allergic reaction or rejection of the product.
- The blood sample is then purified using a centrifuge, and the platelets are separated from the red and white blood cells.
- The PRP is then injected into your skin via microneedling. Microneedling is the process of lightly puncturing the skin with very fine needles. Typically, a topical anesthetic is applied to reduce any pain or discomfort from the procedure.
The procedure typically takes approximately 30 minutes to perform.
What can I expect after the procedure?
There is usually some tenderness and swelling but, for many patients this fades by the end of the day or the day following the treatment. Some results may be seen at once, but the actual cell regrowth can take several weeks to several months to occur, which is why the effects of PRP often last longer than many fillers, which break down over time. With PRP, you are getting results by triggering the natural regeneration of your skin from within.
Initially, three or four treatments are recommended for both hair and facial rejuvenation, scheduled four weeks apart. Continued follow-up to maintain the new cell growth can should be performed in 18 to 24 months.
Who has used PRP treatments?
Quite a number of celebrities have used PRP treatments for different reasons. Some of those who you are most like familiar with are:
- Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian have had PRP facials.
- Tiger Woods, Kobe Bryant, and Alex Rodriguez received PRP treatments for sports injuries and post-surgical repair.
PRP in combination with specially designed hair transplant techniques have been developed to address the distinctive nature of the roots of curly hair.
