What is PRP?
PRP therapy is a treatment which uses your own blood platelets to stimulate new cell growth, helping to improve your complexion, skin texture and to restore lost facial volume.
Your blood is essentially made up of four components; red blood cells, white blood cells, the plasma and the platelets. Your blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge, which enables the separation of the blood cells from your plasma and platelets. Platelets contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors which are very important in for skin rejuvenation. The PRP solution is then re-injected into the skin to stimulate collagen and new skin cells. PRP harnesses the essential functions of the patients own platelets and therefore there is minimal risk of a reaction.
PRP can also be effectively used to treat the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, thinning hair, receding hair line and hair loss; particularly male pattern baldness. It is important to start treatment early on and whether you are a suitable candidate will be determined during your consultation.
What is the procedure?
Depending on how many areas you want to get treated, a volume of blood will be taken. Your blood is then placed in a centrifuge for around 8-10 minutes. Once your cells have separated, the rich platelets are extracted and injected into the skin where rejuvenation is requested.
Does the PRP treatment hurt?
The blood draw is just a quick stick, just like in a lab or when donating blood. Numbing cream is applied to your scalp (or other area of concern like eyebrows, face or neck) to reduce the discomfort of the injections.
What should you expect post treatment and aftercare
Because you will not be able to wash your hair and/or face for 24 hours, you’ll need about a day of social downtime after the procedure.
Many see improvement in hair density and vibrancy as early as six weeks. If you are also opting for facial rejuvenation, your skin texture, tone and appearance will take longer usually 12 – 16 weeks.
Some people will experience some mild to moderate swelling in the area of treatment, redness or heat, which are all common side effects and are part of the activation of your platelets. Because a volume of fluid has to be administered, swelling is inevitable. Bruising can occur and may take several days to disappear.
Less common side effects include allergic rash, headache or infection, which can occur if the injection area is exposed to dust or dirt especially in the first 24 hours.
How soon will I see results?
Most patients will require 3 – 6 treatments at four to six week intervals. The first thing people notice is an improvement in skin turgor and elasticity. Collagen production can take 12-16 weeks to occur and the results can differ depending on the individual. Because the injected product is 100% your own, factors such as smoking, stress and illness can effect results. A series of three treatments can yield results for up to two years.
Are there any reasons why I can’t have PRP therapy?
Like the majority of cosmetic procedures, ladies who are pregnant, breast-feeding or trying to conceive are not suitable candidates. This treatment is not recommended in people on anti-coagulation treatment, autoimmune conditions, have suffered any type of cancer or who have certain implants in the treatment area. Your past and present medical history, as well as your past cosmetic history will be assessed to determine your suitability.
