PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Cosmetic Treatments

Although blood is mainly a liquid (called plasma), it also contains small solid components (red cells, white cells, and platelets.) The platelets are best known for their importance in clotting blood. However, platelets also contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors which are very important in the healing of injuries.

PRP is plasma with many more platelets than what is typically found in blood (PRP = Platelet Rich Plasma). The concentration of platelets — and, thereby, the concentration of growth factors — can be 5 to 10 times greater (or richer) than usual.

Although it is not exactly clear how PRP works, laboratory studies have shown that the increased concentration of growth factors in PRP can potentially speed up the anti-aging and rejuvenation process.

We withdraw a small amount of your own blood and use the plasma for your cosmetic treatment.

Hair rejuvenation:  Small amounts of PRP are injected along thinning areas and areas of concern.

• The natural growth factors in PRP do three things:
  • Recruit new hairs to grow
  • Keeps hair that is present in its growth phase
  • Stimulates stem cells around follicles to thicken

Facial rejuvenation:  PRP is injected directly into lines and creases, with immediate results.

• Common areas for rejuvenation:
  • Tear troughs
  • Temples
  • Cheeks and smile lines
  • Frown lines
  • Acne and facial or body scars

PRP can be used anywhere on the body that you would like to stimulate the skin’s natural healing ability.  The most popular areas of treatment are:

• The face, chest, hands, and arms
• Acne, surgical, and other scars
• Hair thinning or areas of loss

Jessie Mallalieu, our Physician Assistant, will perform your treatment.  You’ll also meet one of our Certified Medical Assistants, who will complete your blood draw for your appointment.

Most patients report little to no discomfort.  A common feeling of “pressure” is noted during the injections.  The blood draw and injections are performed with very fine, thin needles.  If you choose, you may decide to use topical numbing cream one hour prior to your treatment.

The most common side effect is tenderness where the injection is performed.  Delicate skin around the eyes may be slightly puffy for a few days.  Pinpoint bleeding may occur but stops very quickly after the treatment.  Patients receiving PRP for hair loss may experience a slight headache after treatment.

Everyone varies a little in how their body responds to PRP.  If multiple treatments are necessary, they will be spaced by 3 months.  Be sure to discuss this question with Jessie during your initial consultation.

• Patients with thyroid disease or lupus
• Patients who take blood thinners (platelets will not work as effectively)
• Those who have experienced long-term hair loss
• Patients with complete hair loss

*Medicine is not an exact science and individual results may vary.