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The Ultimate Guide to PRP for the Face: What You Need to Know

10-01-2024

What Is a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Facial?

A Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) facial is a cosmetic treatment involving using a person’s blood to rejuvenate the skin on their face or support hair growth. Sometimes referred to as the ‘vampire facial’. It can sound quite frightening, but PRP involves drawing a small amount of blood from the client, usually from their arm and then placing the sample into a centrifuge, which separates the plasma from the other components of the blood. The plasma, rich in platelets, is then returned to the patient’s face either through injection or a micro-needling technique. 

We don’t use the term ‘Vampire facial’ because it sensationalises a cosmetic procedure many clients see great results from!

So, How Does It Work?

The platelets in the plasma contain growth factors believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process and promote the production of collagen. These can improve the texture and appearance of the skin. Some potential benefits of a PRP facial include reduced fine facial lines and wrinkles, improved skin tone and texture, and overall rejuvenation of the skin, which would support this theory of boosting natural collagen production.

Many people report positive results from the treatment, but it’s essential to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if a PRP facial is the right cosmetic procedure for your individual skincare needs.

Is PRP safe?

PRP is safe when the procedure is performed correctly and in a healthy individual. As with other invasive aesthetic procedures, there is always a risk of minor discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the injection site, but these should resolve within 24 – 72 hours. There is also a small risk of infection, nerve injury, or tissue damage. However, these complications are extremely rare when a trained professional performs the procedure in a clean clinical environment.

Overall, PRP therapy is considered safe when performed by a qualified healthcare provider. However, with any cosmetic treatment, it’s important to thoroughly discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes with your aesthetics practitioner before going ahead with any aesthetics treatment.

Before undergoing any treatment at Intrigue Cosmetic Clinic, we always require an overview of your medical history to ascertain suitability for any skin treatment. Patients should also follow post-procedure care instructions to reduce the risk of complications and to optimise the healing process and results.

What are the PRP Benefits for the Face

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for the face offers many benefits. First and foremost, it is a natural and non-invasive treatment that uses your blood to stimulate the growth of new cells, collagen, and elastin. This can result in improved skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.

PRP can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars, leading to a more youthful and rejuvenated look. The growth factors present in PRP can also aid in repairing and regenerating damaged tissues, promoting faster healing and recovery after facial treatments.

Another benefit of PRP therapy for the face is its ability to improve skin hydration and volume. PRP can lead to a plumper and more radiant complexion. Additionally, PRP has been shown to improve skin elasticity and firmness, making it an effective anti-ageing treatment.

PRP therapy for the face offers a natural, safe, and effective way to improve skin quality. PRP can give the skin a more radiant appearance, combat the signs of ageing, and enhance overall facial appearance. With minimal downtime and long-lasting results, it is a popular choice for clients looking to improve the health and appearance of their skin.

Who can have PRP rejuvenation?

As we have covered earlier in this blog, PRP rejuvenation is generally safe for most people, but specific individuals should avoid this treatment.

People with certain medical conditions, such as blood disorders or cancer, should not have PRP rejuvenation, and also those taking blood thinners. Additionally, we advise that pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid PRP therapy.

It is also essential for individuals with active skin infections or conditions such as eczema or psoriasis to refrain from PRP treatments as it could exacerbate their skin issues. Those with a history of keloid scarring should also proceed with caution, as the injection site may lead to further scarring.

What to expect after a PRP facial treatment

After your PRP facial treatment, you can expect some immediate effects for a few hours after treatment, such as redness and swelling with potential bruising at the injection sites. Any side effects typically subside within a few days as the skin’s healing process begins. You may also notice a subtle glow and improved skin texture due to the stimulation of collagen production.

In the long term, the PRP facial treatment can improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin rejuvenation. The increased collagen production can provide a more youthful appearance and improve the overall health and vitality of the skin. Over time, you may also notice a reduction in acne scars and hyperpigmentation.

It’s important to note that individual results may vary. Some individuals may require multiple treatments to achieve the desired outcome. It’s also crucial to follow post-treatment care instructions provided by your skincare professional. Following instructions maximise the benefits of the PRP facial treatment and minimise any potential risks.

While temporary side effects, including redness and swelling, may occur, the long-term effects of PRP facial treatment can lead to improved skin texture, reduced signs of ageing, and overall skin rejuvenation.

How many Sessions of PRP will I Need?

One common question that arises when considering PRP therapy is, “How many sessions will I need?”

The number of PRP sessions required can vary depending on the individual, their specific condition, and the desired outcome. Our personalised treatment protocol at the clinic includes sharing invaluable insight into the treatment and managing expectations.

While some people may see significant improvement after just one treatment session. Other clients may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results beyond their 1st treatment – which is why we recommend between 3-6 treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. These intervals allow sufficient time for your skin to respond to the treatment and for noticeable improvements to occur. However, the exact number of sessions needed may vary depending on factors such as the individual’s age and their response to treatment.

It’s important to have realistic expectations when undergoing PRP therapy. While some individuals may see noticeable improvements after just a few sessions, others may require ongoing maintenance treatments to sustain the desired results. Additionally, it’s essential to follow a personalised treatment plan developed by a qualified medical professional experienced in delivering PRP therapy treatments.

Aftercare Advice

After getting a PRP facial or ‘vampire facial’, there are certain things you should keep in mind for proper aftercare. Firstly, it is important not to touch or scratch the treated areas immediately after the procedure. Touching your face can introduce bacteria and lead to infection or irritation. 

Additionally, you should avoid direct sun exposure for at least a week after the treatment. The skin will be more sensitive and prone to sun damage. It’s crucial to protect it by staying out of the sun and using sunscreen when necessary, even during winter.

We recommend that you do not apply any harsh skincare products. Abrasive skin care products include exfoliants or retinoids. Avoid applying these to the treated area for at least a week. These can be too abrasive for the sensitive skin and hinder the healing process. It is also advised not to participate in strenuous activities that could cause excessive sweating, which can lead to irritation or infection. Avoid laser treatments, other microneedling treatments, hot showers, hot baths and steam rooms for the same reason.

Lastly, do not pick at any scabs that may form as part of the skin’s natural healing process. Let them naturally slough off to avoid scarring or further damage. Following these aftercare will help ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications. Always follow the specific instructions your skincare professional provides for the best post-treatment care.

What Is the Difference Between PRP Therapy and Dermal Fillers?

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy and dermal fillers are both popular cosmetic treatments which can improve the appearance of the skin, but they differ in several key ways.

PRP therapy involves using the patient’s blood, which is processed to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. This concentrated plasma is then injected into the skin to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and promote healing. PRP therapy is often used to rejuvenate the skin and treat fine lines, acne scars, and hair loss.

Dermal fillers, on the other hand, are injectable treatments that contain various substances, such as hyaluronic acid or collagen. These fillers add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and enhance specific facial features. Popular dermal fillers include lip fillers, cheek fillers, and tear trough fillers and can also soften creases and lines on the face.

One of the main differences between PRP therapy and dermal fillers is how they work: PRP therapy works by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. In contrast, dermal fillers physically fill wrinkles and add volume to specific areas. 

Additionally, PRP therapy is often considered a more natural treatment, as it uses the patient’s blood. In contrast, the dermal fillers we use at the clinic are synthetic hyaluronic acid (a version of the naturally occurring substance we find in our bodies). Whilst created in a laboratory, they are still considered more natural than other filler formulations on the market. 

Results; Fillers V’s PRP

Lastly, the duration of results also differs – PRP therapy results may last longer as it stimulates the body’s collagen production. In contrast, dermal fillers typically last several months to a year, depending on the area injected. 

Healing time post-treatment is similar in both procedures. While hyaluronic acid facial injections are a marginally more invasive aesthetic procedure in capable, qualified hands, they are also safe and low risk. 

You are more likely to notice a more immediate transformation with dermal fillers than with your first PRP treatment. Within a couple of weeks of dermal fillers, after any swelling or mild bruising has subsided, you will see a difference. Some clients also report noticing a difference after just one PRP treatment; for others, it requires more sessions.

Some of our clients incorporate both treatments as part of their approach to facial rejuvenation. There are long-term benefits, including improving crepey skin, tone and texture for skin rejuvenation they really notice over time. These treatments, coupled with a regular skincare routine and professional-grade skin care products, complement supple skin and restore a youthful blush to the face.

Thinking of getting PRP? Book Your Consultation With Our Award-Winning Aesthetics Practitioner Today HERE.