PRP for Skin Rejuvenation

PRP involves taking 2 vials of blood from your arm like a blood test and placing it into a centrifuge to separate the blood components. Once the blood has been centrifuged, the platelet rich plasma is extracted leaving the Red and white blood cells behind in the vial. The Prp is then injected into areas of concern whether it be hair for hair follicle stimulation and growth or skin for collagen and elastin production.

PRP is injected using a tiny fine needle all over the face for skin rejuvenation and is then skin needled on top for even better results. Skin needling is the process of lightly puncturing the skin with tiny fine needles. The procedure itself takes around 30-40 min to perform and a numbing topical agent is used to reduce discomfort. 

Immediately after the procedure there is some tenderness, minimal swelling and some redness which fades by the end of the day for most patients. Most patients experience skin tingling and tightness after their procedure which is a normal sensation with Prp skin rejuvenation. 

The skin usually has a glow after a few days to weeks after the procedure and  collagen and elastin production will be stimulated for the next 12-16 weeks. This means that fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, acne scarring and skin texture and tone will improve with time as cell regrowth takes several weeks to months to occur. As a result the effects of prp skin rejuvenation can last longer than fillers which break down over time. With prp you are obtaining results by naturally regenerating your skin from within.

This is a natural procedure in which it relies on your blood quality so it is important to ensure that you are well hydrated and consume a balanced diet of leafy greens and vegetables to ensure blood quality is at its prime. 

Preparing for your PRP treatment;

• avoid alcohol, caffeine and foods with high fat content 1-2 days before your treatment 
• Avoid anti inflammatory medications such as nurofen, ibuprofen, aspirin, Voltaren 2 weeks prior your treatment as these medications reduce the number of platelets your plasma can produce 
• Avoid skin treatments/dermal therapies at least 1-2 weeks before your treatment 
• Avoid using active skincare products eg. vitamin A/retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acids 2 days before your treatment
• Stay hydrated! Drink at least 1L of water before your treatment 

Aftercare post your PRP treatment;

• Avoid washing or touching your face for the next 12 hours after your treatment 
• avoid active skin care products for at least 3 days after your treatment
• You can use a bland moisturiser or recovery cream you can purchase from the clinic specific for this procedure the following day 
• Avoid unprotected sun exposure, ensure the following day you commence wearing SPF50+ to protect your skin from hyperpigmentation
• If you require pain relief, use paracetamol and avoid anti inflammatory medications such as nurofen to avoid increased likelihood of bruising 
• Patients that take aspirin regularly can resume 48 hours after their treatment unless otherwise directed by their physician 
• Avoid exercise for 24 hours after your treatment to avoid 
• Minimise alcohol, caffeine and supplements (vitamin E, Omega 3 fatty acids, garlic, ginkgo, green tea) that may increase bruising for 2 days after your treatment 

How does your skin look and feel after your PRP treatment?

• immediately after: Your face may look red and feel tight, almost like a mild sunburn. This fades within hours to a couple of days
• Day 1-3: your skin will start to glow, it may feel slightly tender and there may be some bruising or swelling where PRP was injected. These are temporary as your skin is in it healing and renewal phase.
• Week 2-4: at this stage you will start to notice the complete effects of the treatment. Your skin will be glowing and it can last for months. The skin will feel smooth with reduced visibility of fine lines. The skin texture and tone will improve as collagen production continues to be stimulated by PRP. 
• Maintaining your results: the number of treatments is individualised and will be determined by your nurse. PRP results are long lasting although they are not permanent therefore once your treatment plan is completed, you may require maintenance treatments every 6-12 months depending on your skin's needs and your skin goals.