Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment is also known as a Vampire Facial. This relatively non-invasive procedure utilizes the patient's growth factors in their blood to rejuvenate the skin. PRP is rich in ingredients that encourage cell turnover, renewal, and collagen production. It helps to heal damaged skin and wounds and rejuvenate aging skin by reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and scarring, tightening the skin and restoring volume. The Vampire Facial can also be applied under the eyes to help brighten dark circles under the eyes. This procedure is safe and pain-free.
Practitioners often combine the Vampire Facial with other resurfacing treatments, such as laser, for more enhanced results.
PRP injections can also treat alopecia caused by genetics (androgenic alopecia) or autoimmune conditions (alopecia areata). Patients will notice regrowth three months after the treatments. Initial monthly treatments and periodic maintenance treatments are needed.
The process requires three steps and will take 45 minutes to 1 hour with no downtime. Before the procedure, topical anesthetic cream is applied to numb the area. The first step will be to draw blood from the patient, usually taken from the arm. In the second step, a centrifuge separates the blood to remove the red cells and leave behind the platelet-rich plasma or "liquid gold". In the final stage, practitioners apply the PRP using a micro-needling device. The controlled micro-injuries encourage the production of collagen and elastin.
PRP may not be suitable for some patients, such as those with anemia or active cancer. Patients on blood-thinning medication should discuss this with their doctor before stopping any medications.
The results of the procedure are almost immediate. They will steadily improve over the next couple of months as the skin continually produces more collagen. Results will last 3-6 months, and patients who wish to maintain their appearance should have sessions periodically.
