If you haven’t heard of it yet, it’s because platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) is one of the new kids on the block in the realm of cosmetic treatments. Why is making ripples in the beauty community? Not only does it produce remarkable results, but it’s also doctor-recommended and supported by science.
PRP-based treatments tap into the body’s innate ability to heal its own tissue and boost natural growth factors in the body.
Plasma (the colourless, liquid part of the blood) contains water, proteins, and fats. It provides a medium for immunity cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets to travel through the body. Platelets are the blood cells that are responsible for clotting and other healing functions, and they deliver high concentrations of growth factors throughout the body for healing purposes.
How does this translate into it being beneficial for cosmetic use? PRP has been shown to diminish wrinkles, improve one’s complexion, reduce scarring, plump the skin, and even stimulate hair growth, all with little to no downtime.
A PRP treatment begins with blood being drawn from your arm, which is then run through a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. This is where the magic happens! Your platelets are injected directly into your chosen treatment area, where they begin stimulating stem cell turnover and releasing growth factors that initiate rejuvenation and repair. This encourages the skin to function optimally, increasing everything from collagen to elastin, while simultaneously delivering antioxidants and hydration. In laymen’s terms, your own blood is used to amplify the regenerative ability of your skin cells.
The most popular – and the most famous – use for PRP is the “Vampire Facial”, an innovative treatment that utilizes microneedling to create tiny microchannels in the skin and then deliver PRP into them. This activates the skin’s self-repair mechanism and triggers new collagen production. As this newly-formed collagen matures, it begins to shrink, tightening wrinkled areas and strengthening the skin, leaving you with increased fullness and a renewed, healthy glow!
While it might sound (and look) scary the process is relatively painless, however, some clients do opt to use a topical numbing gel prior to undergoing treatment. Post-treatment, one can expect mild inflammation, but fear not – this inflammation is actually what triggers the healing response.
What does the downtime look like? Expect some short-lived bruising and redness, and you’ll need to take a break from makeup for a few days to allow your skin to heal.
PRP facials are rapidly growing in popularity because they are one of a handful of non-invasive treatments that truly transform the look of your skin. Many of our clients are choosing to have PRP facials a few times per year to maintain the results for anti-ageing purposes. The more often you have a PRP facial, the longer the results of each treatment last.
PRP has also been shown to be effective for Hair Restoration because it targets the underlying cause of hair loss. When injected into the scalp, it acts much like a garden fertilizer, stimulating the activity of the hair follicles and promoting new growth.
Just about anyone experiencing hair loss is a good candidate for PRP treatments, but those with early hair loss typically respond best. The key to hair restoration treatment is consistency. Treatments are typically performed once a month for the first three to four months, and then every three to six months thereafter, depending on the individual’s response and results. Following this protocol, results can first be seen within two to three months.
Outside of cosmetic medicine, PRP is used to treat inflammation and soft tissue injuries, such as tennis elbow and rotator cuff tears. There’s a reason why industry insiders refer to it as “liquid gold”!
If you’d like to learn more about this innovative therapy, we are always happy to answer any questions about PRP treatment. Book a complimentary consultation to see if PRP therapy is right for you!