Platelet-rich plasma is used in many settings, including sports medicine and joint treatments. PRP isn’t limited to medical treatments, though. Here at Wellington Rejuvenation Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, our team includes PRP therapy in our suite of aesthetic medicine services.
But how does PRP work to enhance cosmetic services?
That’s just the question we tackle in this blog. Read on as Kelly DiStefano, MD; Wendy Champey, MD; and Ed Champey, MD, explain what PRP is and how it can revitalize your appearance.
PRP basics
Unlike other cosmetic treatments, PRP uses your own blood to create a custom serum. Your PRP serum is a concentration of platelets. Platelets — small, colorless blood cells known to help with clotting and healing — contain growth factors and proteins that aid in tissue repair and regeneration.
The process begins with drawing a small amount of your blood. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins it at high speeds to separate the platelets from other blood components. The resulting platelet-rich plasma is then ready to be used in your treatment.
PRP therapy can be used to address a variety of cosmetic issues, including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Scarring, including acne scars
- Thinning hair, including male pattern baldness
- Dull complexion
- Skin laxity
PRP can be applied topically to your face after microneedling or injected directly into your scalp when used to boost hair growth.
How PRP works
Each application of PRP is loaded with growth factors, and these growth factors make the magic happen. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), for example, stimulates your body to produce more collagen. Collagen gives your skin structure and elasticity, so when that increases, fine lines and wrinkles start to fade.
The growth factors in PRP not only stimulate collagen production but also promote the growth of new cells, including skin cells and blood vessels. The increased cellular turnover can help improve your skin texture, tone, and elasticity.
PRP therapy enhances the formation of new blood vessels in the treated area — thanks to transforming growth factor ß (TGF-ß). This improved blood supply means better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your skin and, in the case of hair restoration, your hair follicles. (Your hair follicles are nourished by the nutrients in blood.)
To put it simply, PRP works to correct cosmetic concerns by stimulating collagen production, increasing cellular turnover, and promoting blood vessel formation.
Is PRP therapy right for you?
If you’re considering different cosmetic options, PRP therapy offers a few advantages. PRP therapy doesn’t contain synthetic ingredients — remember, it’s made from your own blood! It’s tolerated quite well with virtually zero risk of allergic reaction.
PRP therapy might be right for you if:
- You want to combat thinning hair without hair plugs or transplants
- You want to correct cosmetic concerns, such as fine lines or acne scars
- You’re free from any contraindications, such as an active infection at the injection site
- You understand the process and are OK with having your blood drawn
Curious if this treatment can help you reach your aesthetic goals? Your next step is to book a consultation with us. Our team will review your aesthetic goals, examine the treatment area, and determine if PRP — or another treatment like fillers, laser scar resurfacing, or a combination of treatments — is right for you.
You can reach out to us at 561-878-1282, or click here to get started.