What are PRP Facials?
You’ve probably heard of platelet-rich plasma facials, also known as PRP facials. The basic process begins with a New Jersey-licensed registered nurse drawing a small amount of blood and then using a centrifuge to separate out the red cells. The remaining platelet-rich plasma is what’s used in the facial process.
About this procedure and FDA status. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is prepared from your own blood. The centrifuge systems used to prepare PRP are FDA-cleared devices, but PRP itself is not FDA-approved for facial rejuvenation, and this use is considered off-label. Published evidence is limited and mixed, and outcomes vary considerably between individuals. Results are not guaranteed. We will discuss what the evidence does and does not support, and what is realistic for you specifically, at your consultation.
How we prepare for complications · Our New Jersey blood bank licenses · Who treats you
Simply put, a PRP facial uses your own blood’s platelets and plasma on your face. The natural chemicals in your own PRP are slathered onto your face and then micro-needled into the skin during a short procedure. The aim is to support collagen production. Many patients report improved texture and glow; results vary from person to person and are not guaranteed.
Some people opt to have just one facial while others undergo a regular series of procedures. Where patients report a change, it typically lasts a few months; results are not guaranteed.
What are the key advantages of PRP facials and why are they so popular?
Many patients report improved skin texture and glow.
An allergic reaction to the PRP itself is not expected because the plasma comes from your own body, although reactions to the numbing cream or other products used remain possible.
Pain and discomfort is minimal and the procedure is short
What, Exactly, is a Treatment Like?
Many of our clients know that a PRP facial can make them look healthier, younger, and generally wonderful in a short amount of time, but often have concerns about the procedure itself. After sitting down, our team members will briefly explain to you what’s going to happen. Here’s a quick outline:
A New Jersey-licensed registered nurse takes a small sample of your blood and places it in a centrifuge to isolate plasma and platelets from red cells. The red cells are not used in the procedure. This protein-rich plasma is what helps stimulate collagen production when infused into the skin of your face.
We use a topical cream to numb your skin about 20 minutes prior to treatment.
The plasma is spread all over your face before the next step of the process.
A registered nurse uses a micro-needling device on your forehead, cheeks, and other parts of your face to make sure the protein-rich substance is able to travel deep into the skin.
Micro-needing itself helps to stimulate collagen growth, so when used alongside an infusion of PRP, you’re getting a double effect of collagen-boosting.
When it’s over, you might notice a bit of superficial pain on your face and minor bruising from the micro-needling technique.
For deep lines and other troublesome areas of the facial skin, our team might use fillers or Botox to handle volume-deficient skin and small wrinkles.
What are the Typical Results of PRP Facials?
Results take a while to show up, especially after the very first facial you get. But most of our clients notice a generalized tightening of the skin within a few days, a glow and fullness to the entire face, and just an overall healthier look.
Results can last several months. That’s why many people choose to have PRP facials a few times per year to maintain the results for anti-aging purposes. Initially, it’s best to have about 4-6 treatments at two-week intervals to deal with scarring, skin damage, and problem areas.
What are the Key Advantages of a PRP Facial?
Our clients have noticed many benefits from this treatment. Many patients report softer lines, improved texture and tone, and some improvement in acne scarring. The degree of change varies and is not guaranteed.
PRP facial experts at our medspa use a micro-needling device. It enables our team members to perform the entire procedure with minimal pain and in a short period of time. The device essentially “stamps” the skin with very tiny needles. This unique treatment causes the body’s natural healing processes to go into effect. Skin begins to produce more collagen and elastin in response to the needling. Simultaneously, the body also responds to the platelet-rich plasma and works with it to create additional collagen and elastin.
Who is not a candidate
PRP is not offered to patients who have a bleeding or platelet disorder, who take anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication, who have an active infection or a cold sore at or near the treatment area, who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have a blood-related cancer or any active cancer under treatment. It is also not appropriate for patients who are unwell on the day of treatment, who have taken certain anti-inflammatory or steroid medications shortly before, or who have a history of poor healing or keloid scarring in the treatment area. Every PRP treatment requires an examination and an order from a licensed prescriber first, and we will tell you plainly if PRP is not right for you.
What Are Some Myths and Facts About PRP Facials?
Myth: PRP facials hurt.
Fact: There’s slight discomfort for a few minutes during and after the procedure, but nothing significant.
Myth: PRP facials are exorbitantly expensive.
Fact: Depending on how many treatments you desire, a single facial is surprisingly affordable. A first treatment can range from just over $750 to just under $1,500.
Myth: PRP facials are a form of surgery.
Fact: They’re not surgery at all. This is one of the key advantages of PRP treatments.