What is Plasma Rich Protein (PRP)?
Platelet rich plasma or PRP is concentrated blood plasma that contains approximately 3 to 5 times the number of platelets found in normal circulating blood. In addition, it contains platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF) and other bioactive proteins that help in the rejuvenation of skin.
What is PRP Therapy?
PRP Therapy is a treatment that uses your own plasma to stimulate collagen production and cell migration. When injected in the skin it allows for the significant reduction of lines, folds and wrinkles, improved skin elasticity, thickness, texture and tone, as well as effectively treating skin blemishes and pigmentation. Results from PRP therapy are natural looking and subtle, and they can last for as long as two years. What’s more, PRP is minimally invasive, has no risk of allergic reaction, and can be used to treat nearly any area of the body without risks of side-effects, making it ideal for patients who are not interested in or are not good candidates for injectable fillers.
PRP therapy is also an efficient option for hair loss in both men and women, which by stimulating their follicles, increase hair count, hair growth, and hair thickness. Among many types of hair loss, androgenetic alopecia, a very common type of hair loss and thinning, is the best subject to undergo PRP therapy.
What can be treated with PRP?
PRP can be used to:
• To soften and correct facial wrinkles or folds
• To reduce the appearance of facial and body scars
• To treat hollows and dark circles under the eyes (tear troughs)
• To improve the tone, texture and hydration of the skin
• To improve sagging jowls
• To improve facial volume loss due to facial aging and environmental damage
• To restore lost volume in hands to reduce the appearance of veins and tendons
• To repair cellular damage from UV rays and acne resulting in smoother skin tissue and texture
• To stimulate hair growth
Are there any side effects?
Because you are using your own blood with no foreign substances, side effects are minimal. Some bruising, swelling and redness are common immediately following the procedure. Most side effects should resolve within a few days and most patients feel confident enough to return to work the next day. As the platelets are the patients own there is no risk of transmissible diseases or allergic reactions. Infection risk is minimised by ensuring sterile
technique and equipment. You will be fully consulted before any treatment to discuss the side effects in detail.
How long does PRP therapy last?
Following a full course of treatment (3 treatments at 3-6 week intervals) the results of PRP therapy can be expected to last up to 18-24 months . A one-off treatment, can be expected to last for several months.
Can everybody have PRP?
Unfortunately not. Patients with abnormal platelet function, clotting disorders and chronic liver disease are not suitable for PRP therapy. Please remember to disclose your relevant medical history with your Aesthetic Practitioner during your consultation.