PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses injections of your own plasma for tissue rejuvenation. The concentrated plasma is rich in growth factors, bio-stimulators and stem cells that stimulate repair and regeneration when injected into body tissue. Surgeons have used it over 30 years for orthopedic injuries and reconstructive procedures. It has proven as a useful modality in the cosmetic industry, specifically for skin rejuvenation and hair restoration.
PRP Facials
PRP injections can help repair damaged, aging skin by stimulating new collagen and elastin. This gives a more youthful-looking complexion. During a PRP facial, your extracted platelet rich plasma is introduced into your skin through injections and micro-needling. Micro-needling (also known as “collagen induction therapy”) works by applying tiny needles to the surface of the skin through a hand-held device. The cosmetic results are magnified when combining the two modalities.
How do I know if a PRP facial is for me?
Men and women of all skin types can benefit from PRP facials to treat a variety of skin conditions. Some of the cosmetic benefits of PRP facials include:
Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Firmer, tighter skin
Improving moisture retention
Creating uniform tone and texture
Restoring volume loss
Reducing acne scars and other types of scars
Before and after photo courtesy of PRP Injection MD
PRP may not be the treatment for you if you are pregnant, use or recently used Accutane for acne, have a history of poor wound healing, have an active skin infection or eczema flare, have certain bleeding disorders, are undergoing anticoagulation, have immunosuppression, have had a recent chemical peel, or have undergone skin radiation in the last 12 months.
What can I expect during my PRP facial?
After cleansing your skin, your doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to set for at least 30 minutes. While the numbing is taking effect, a syringe draws a small amount of blood. We place the vial of blood in a centrifuge which separates your PRP from the rest of your plasma. Depending on your individual needs, the PRP solution is injected with a small needle and/or massaged into the skin during the micro-needling process. Micro-needling is done using Dermapen® (a medical grade device that creates small controlled micro-punctures in the skin) allowing for the penetration of your PRP. You can expect the procedure to last approximately 90 minutes.
What can I expect after my PRP facial?
Do not wash the PRP off your face for at least eight hours after your treatment. We suggest you wait until the next morning to cleanse your face gently. Recovery for this procedure is relatively minimal. You can go back to school or work the next day if you wish, although you may look like you have a moderate sunburn. There may be bruising, swelling, redness, tightness, skin flaking, and tenderness which could last up to two to five days. You should cleanse once a day and moisturize as needed. If desired, you may use a lightweight foundation or powder to minimize redness.
For the first five to seven days while your skin heals, you will want to avoid direct sun exposure and harsh skin treatments like alcohol or acid based products and exfoliants. Proper sun protection using an SPF 30+ sunscreen is very important. During recovery, avoid rigorous activities that might cause excessive sweating and heat production. Sweating may cause additional irritation and increase swelling or bruising. Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications for one week after the procedure, as they may inhibit your inflammatory process that is integral to skin repair.
Rare, but serious, complications include infection and scarring. If you have a history of herpes simplex or cold sores, it is also possible that you may have an outbreak from this procedure. Acyclovir will prescribed preventatively to avoid this reaction.
On average, it takes about two to three weeks after a PRP facial for patients to see visible improvements in their skin and four to six weeks to see marked improvement. However, since its main mechanism is your body’s own healing and regenerative systems, you probably won’t notice peak results until around three months. Depending on your underlying concerns, optimum results may require a consecutive treatment protocol and most clients receive a series of three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a single PRP facial at Elysian Beauty and Wellness is $1200. A package of 3 treatments is offered at the discounted cost of $3000. Remember that there is also a discount when bundling PRP with other services.
How do I get started?
Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Albright and her team at Elysian Beauty and Wellness today. In this initial consultation, we will address your goals and create an individualized treatment plan to fit your schedule and budget.
PRP Hair Restoration.
Coming soon.