PRP Aesthetics
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Your blood (called plasma) can heal and repair specific deficiencies when injected back into localized areas of your body (Platelet- rich plasma (PRP) injections, 2019). This plasma contains a high concentration of platelets. Platelets are proteins known as growth factors. When injected under the skin, these growth factors send signals to your cells to accelerate healing, stimulate collagen, and increase the growth of hair follicles in cases of androgenetic alopecia (Platelet-rich plasma attracts attention, 2018).
PRP is prepared by drawing 10-22 ml of blood from the inside of the arm or back of the hand. The blood is then put into a centrifuge and spun for 10 minutes. This process separates platelets from other blood cells increasing platelet concentration. The golden colored concentration is then injected into the desired area.
Clinically, PRP has been used in medicine by health care providers for over a decade to treat a variety of ailments along with sport injuries in athletes.
When injected aesthetically in the face, these growth factors aid in the healing process by promoting cell growth, while rejuvenating and soothing tired or troubled skin. This process, known as the vampire facelift, can also target brown spots (sunspots) on the face, neck, and back of the hands (2-6 treatments are recommended).
When injected into the scalp PRP gives ageing hair follicles an instant boost. In order for your hair and scalp to remain in good health, it needs to receive adequate blood supply for proper nutrition. PRP therapy provides your follicles and roots with blood plasma from your own body to encourage the growth of new and healthy hair (6 treatments are recommended).
Who is a candidate for PRP?
Individuals with a healthy immune system are most likely able to receive PRP treatments. PRP injections are contraindicated in patients with: unstable blood pressure, blood and skin infections, patients undergoing chemotherapy or who have cancer, Platelet dysfunction syndrome, chronic thrombocytopenia, severe metabolic and systemic disorders, Septicemia, heavy nicotine or drug consumption. As with all medical treatments, a full health history review is required.
Pre-procedure planning:
You should stop taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) seven days before and after the treatment, (unless otherwise advised by your doctor). These medications along with others, will limit or prevent inflammation, which can diminish your results. An allergic reaction or immune response to PRP is unlikely because it is derived from your own blood.
Upon arrival
Each PRP treatment can take up to 1 hour to complete. During this time a thorough medical history consult will be completed. Full consent forms are signed while confidential medical photos are taken.
Treatment
The skin is cleansed of any oils or dirt. Blood is drawn from the individual, usually from the inside of the arm or back of the hand then spun in our centrifuge. This 10-minute spinning process will separate red blood cells from the platelets. PRP is then administered by micro needling or small injections on the face or scalp.
Post Care
Face
PRP therapy has few risks and very little recovery time. It is a completely safe procedure, with mild side effects such as minor tenderness, itching, swelling and bruising that can be noticeable for 2-5 days. Regular daily activities can be resumed after treatment. A cold compress can be applied if needed along with acetaminophen for pain.
Hair
Do not add pressure or rub the head for 8 hours after treatment. Do not wet your hair for 3 hours after PRP and avoid hair products for 6 hours after treatment. As the goal is to create an inflammatory response with these treatments, avoiding anti-inflammatory medications and products is important for a successful outcome. Further discussion of necessary anti-inflammatory medications such as Aspirin would be discussed during consultation. Bruising, redness, itching, swelling and soreness is normal and may last from 2-5 days following your procedure.
Hospital for Special Surgery. (2019). Retrieved from here.
Medpage Today. (2018). Retrieved from here.
Want to see more about the procedures?
Request access to see Aundrea's videos.
If you already have a password, click here.
Contact Aundrea