How Platelet-Rich Plasma Works: A Basic Rundown
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a regenerative therapy that has more recently been adapted for cosmetic use. The basic idea behind the treatment is that growth factors and blood cell components, which contain healing properties, are collected, concentrated, and then re-injected into the skin. According to Dr. Derek Jones, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, PRP is an effective treatment for various skin conditions, as well as for revitalizing failing follicles.
Though it has been utilized for medical purposes and dentistry for more than a decade, PRP has become more well-known in recent years as it has been used to treat injuries suffered by famous athletes. In cosmetic therapy, PRP is now often used to combat hair loss or is combined with skin treatments like microneedling, where it is said to lessen such post-treatment side effects as swelling. It may also speed up the recovery process. Microneedling with PRP is also sometimes referred to as a “vampire facial” or “blood facial.” This has become an attractive option for patients due to the lack of downtime required after a session, and for its long-lasting results.
From laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels to injectable dermal fillers, the demand for anti-aging procedures is continually high, and patients are seemingly more open to trying newer treatments. For those who may be squeamish about injecting themselves with foreign substances or subjecting themselves to more invasive procedures such as major surgery, PRP can be a welcome alternative. The plasma is taken from your own body, and as such is tolerated and accepted very well when it is reintroduced.
To fully understand how PRP works, it’s first necessary to be aware of the components of blood and their functions. The liquid aspect of blood, plasma, is mostly made up of water. Additionally, blood contains denser substances such as white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cells. The primary purpose of red blood cells is to transport oxygen, while white blood cells play a major role in protecting the body from infections and diseases. Platelets form blood clots to prevent excessive bleeding at the site of an injury. Proteins called growth factors, which are contained in platelets, promote the growth, division, and differentiation of cells, which is why they are beneficial for healing.
On the day of a skin treatment involving PRP, your provider will begin by cleansing your face to remove dirt and oil before numbing the skin in the treatment site with a topical anesthetic. A small sample of blood (roughly two to four tablespoons) is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma. The resulting mixture contains a much higher level of platelets than is typical for the volume.
After the microneedling session, this protein-rich substance is spread over the treatment site. The tiny pricks and punctures made by the fine microneedling needles allow the PRP to more deeply penetrate the skin. In some cases, the PRP may be applied prior to the treatment, or both before and after microneedling. This triggers the production of new collagen, the protein that maintains the strength of the skin. Each session usually lasts no more than half an hour.
The skin can appear more supple, firm, and smooth after a session. Side effects, such as slight swelling and bruising, are minor and resolve after a few days. While some visible improvement appears shortly, the full effects are often seen weeks or months later. People who are pregnant, are on blood thinners, have active acne breakouts, or suffer from chronic conditions such as eczema and rosacea aren’t typically advised to choose microneedling and PRP. A board-certified dermatologist can properly assess your skin and medical history to help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for the treatment.
The physician-only Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills team is happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Dr. Derek Jones and Dr. Jeanette Black were authors on the 2019 book PRP and Microneedling in Aesthetic Medicine—the first medical book of its kind. Give the Los Angeles-based practice a call directly at 310-246-0495 or submit a message online.