Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Regular microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that minimizes the signs of the aging skin. In order to promote collagen production, a roller or device with needles is used to prick the skin. So how is it different from microneedling with platelet-rich plasma and does this new treatment achieve better results?
What is Microneedling with PRP?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma, which is used in order to speed healing up and decrease swelling and redness after the patient has undergone a standard microneedling treatment.
Traditional microneedling is known for successfully treating age spots, wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, stretch marks. However, most aestheticians focus their efforts on the face when doing a microneedling treatment, namely to tackle some of the most common signs of aging and give the skin a natural boost.
PRP can be added to the session topically or as an injection, if requested by the patient. Usually, it requires an additional cost, but the outcome is definitely worth it. The main goal of the platelet-rich plasma is to boost the effect of the microneedling treatments. Moreover, PRP manages to provide faster results in comparison to regular microneedling.
At Unique Beauty Bar we use the Candela Exceed™ medical microneedling device. It is one of the only FDA cleared medical microneedling devices in the United States. This device is unparalleled at delivering the highest quality treatment. This means you will see results FASTER than traditional medical microneedling devices.
What Exactly Does the Treatment Involve?
he microneedling with PRP treatment can last between 30 to 60 minutes and here’s what you should expect:
-
During the procedure a professional-grade derma roller or FDA-approved device will be rolled on the areas of your face you want treated.
-
A syringe of blood from your arm is then drawn and put into a centrifuge, which separates the PRP from other components of the blood.
-
After the microneedling portion of the treatment is completed, the PRP solution is massaged into the treated area. Microneedling creates small controlled micro punctures in the skin that make the penetration of the PRP possible.
-
Finally, a serum or balm to help soothe any redness and irritation is applied on the face.
Am I a Candidate?
Due to the relatively invasive nature of the procedure, you should consult with a physician before undergoing both traditional microneedling and microneedling with PRP. Most healthy people will benefit from the procedure, but all patients with active acne and specific skin conditions like eczema and rosacea have to be cautious.
If you scar easily or have a hard time recovering from wounds, you are probably not the best candidate for this type of treatment.
Microneedling with PRP is not recommended for pregnant women and patients who have undergone skin radiation in the past year.
How Long Does the Recovery Take?
Apart from some redness and minor irritation, the downtime for this treatment is next to zero. You can resume your daily routine as soon as possible. What you should keep in mind, however, is to regularly cleanse and moisturize the skin without applying too many products. Sweating is one of the greatest enemies of microneedling as it can prevent the skin from healing faster and can cause additional swelling, bruising or another type of irritation, so try to avoid any rigorous activities like running and working out for at least 72 hours after the procedure.
Is the Procedure Safe?
Yes, the microneedling with PRP treatment is completely safe when performed by professional beauticians. PRP contains your own blood so you needn’t worry about cross-contamination. However, some common side effects that you might experience include swelling and redness, but they usually disappear in 4-6 days.
As with most invasive skin therapies, sun exposure after having undergone the procedure is not recommended and could potentially cause you inflammation. Always protect your skin from the harmful UV rays.