Recently I have received a number of phone calls regarding PRP (platelet rich plasma) treatments. PRP facial treatments use constituents of the patients own blood to stimulate the skin’s natural healing response. PRP has long been used in orthopedic medicine, dentistry, and reconstructive surgery, and now its benefits are being applied to dermatology and cosmetic medicine. PRP contains growth factors which stimulate skin regeneration. Platelets are a component of our blood necessary for normal clotting. However, these same platelets when activated, release several proteins as well as growth factors which stimulate the body’s healing processes, including increasing collagen formation, skin-tightening and overall rejuvenation. PRP treatments are more generically known as ‘Facial Stem Cell Regeneration’ therapy.
PRP facial treatment is a quick 30 minute procedure. A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient and spun down in a centrifuge to separate the different components of the blood.
Red and white blood cells are divided from the platelets and the plasma (the clear fluid). This plasma now contains a fivefold increase in the number of platelets. The separated platelets are then activated with calcium chloride, to release more growth factors. Topical anesthesia is given and the platelet-rich plasma is injected into the appropriate areas with micro-needling techniques.
The treatment is ideal for individuals looking for gradual but noticeable improvement in skin texture, tone and color with minimal downtime. The treatment yields a rejuvenated and healthier skin appearance. When combined with companion therapies such as injectables or non-invasive skin tightening technologies such as INFINI or Pixel laser, the results can be dramatic!
It can be used on all skin types and colors. It helps eliminating skin wrinkles, improves the appearance in those with acne scarring, and hastens the healing process after a facial peel or laser treatment. It also appeals to patients who are looking for an all natural approach to rejuvenate the face.
For best results, we recommend up to three treatments, 4-8 weeks apart, with a booster treatment at around 12 months. Improvement in the skin texture is noticeable within the first month while full collagen regeneration takes 3 months. The improvements continue over the next 12 months, as new collagen production continues to improve the overall appearance of the dermis. The effects last for 18 months to 2 years or longer.
Because this treatment is made from the patient’s own blood, there is no risk for rejection or an allergic reaction. Downtime is minimal and the skin may appear slightly sunburned for up to 48 hours with little or no associated discomfort.
In a future article I’ll go into more uses for PRP including wound healing and hair restoration. I always address new technologies with a modicum of suspicion, however it seems PRP treatments are based in real science and offer another exciting anti-aging option to my ever-growing armamentarium.
For more information on PRP treatments, contact my office at 301-829-4110 or visit us on the web at www.DrCappuccino.com
