PRP is an incredibly innovative treatment that has quickly grown in popularity over the past few years. It uses the regenerative properties of your own plasma to harness the power of the body’s natural healing functions and target a range of concerns. If you’re thinking of trying PRP injections (or have already scheduled your first session!), we’ll cover everything you need to know before your appointment.
What is Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is highly concentrated in growth factors that stimulate the production of new, healthy cells and help with tissue healing. When injected into the skin, PRP provides impressive regenerative benefits (we’ll talk more about that in a minute!).
In order to source the PRP, a small amount of blood is drawn. It is then spun in a centrifuge, where the platelets are separated from other components of the blood, and then concentrated into the plasma. A unique benefit of PRP is that, since it comes from your own blood (and not a foreign source), there is very little risk of rejection or negative reaction.
Initially, PRP was primarily used to treat musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, typically in the knees, elbows, and ankles. However, it has since expanded into the cosmetics world. PRP facial injections speed up the body’s natural healing process while boosting the production of collagen and elastin. These injections can smooth fine lines and wrinkles, minimize dark circles under the eyes, thicken the skin, reduce acne scars, improve texture and tone, and generally rejuvenate the face, neck, and chest.
In addition to using platelet-rich plasma to target skin issues, this treatment can also help counteract hair loss in both men and women. PRP injections are typically best suited for people with androgenetic alopecia, and those who have recently experienced hair thinning due to factors like stress or hormonal fluctuations.
How Should I Prepare for My First PRP Treatment?
Regardless of where you’re getting the injections, it’s smart to stay hydrated and focus on eating nutritious meals in the days leading up to your treatment. This will help with your healing process, and will also make the blood draw much easier! You’ll also want to avoid alcohol and any blood thinning medications in the days leading up to your treatment, as they can increase your risk of bruising.
If you’re getting scalp injections, wash your hair prior to the treatment to help create a sterile environment. Of course, the treatment area will be sanitized in office prior to any injections. Getting face injections? Feel free to come in with a clean, bare face!
What Happens During a Session?
First, we’ll draw a small amount of blood (around two to four tablespoons), which then goes through a quick spinning process to get the PRP. That solution is then injected into the areas that you’re looking to treat.
Do PRP Injections Hurt?
PRP injections are relatively painless, although you’ll likely feel a slight prick. Whether you’re using PRP for hair loss or on the face, a topical numbing cream will be used in order to minimize any discomfort.
How Long is a Session?
You’ll be in and out in no time! The entire procedure (including the blood draw) is typically done within one to two hours. The injection process itself is usually around half an hour.
What are the Side Effects of PRP?
PRP side effects are fairly minimal. You may experience some temporary swelling, redness, bruising, tenderness, or pressure around the injection sites. These side effects should resolve within a few days.
How Many Sessions Do I Need?
In order to get the best, most visible results, you’ll want to schedule additional sessions over the course of a few months. For both the face and the hair, most people see optimal results from three to four treatments, each scheduled about four to six weeks apart. After these initial sessions, follow up treatments can be scheduled to maintain the results.
For PRP facial treatments, you’ll begin to see improvements in your skin about two to four weeks after your session. These results will become even more noticeable as the body’s collagen and elastin production continues to increase. The final results will appear within a few months, and will last up to 18 months.
You’ll need a bit more patience with PRP hair treatments, but the results are worth the wait! Expect to start to notice new growth about two to three months after your treatment. These results typically last for about 18 to 24 months.
Post-Treatment Care Instructions
Thankfully, there isn’t any downtime with PRP. For the most part, you’ll be able to return to your routine right after your appointment! That said, there are a few things you should do (and avoid!) to help with the healing process.
You’ll want to steer clear of putting pressure on the injection sites for a few days after your treatment. For both the face and hair, use only gentle shampoos, face cleansers, and topical products for a few days post-treatment. Don’t use any formulas that may irritate the skin or scalp.
Additionally, be sure to avoid strenuous exercise and heat exposure (including from the sun, hot showers, and saunas) for at least 24 hours. To help with healing, continue drinking plenty of water, and skip any alcoholic drinks and blood-thinning medications for at least a few days.
On a final note, if any questions pop up after (or before or during!) your session, please feel free to reach out! Any concerns you may have will be addressed to make sure you have the best, most seamless experience with your very first PRP treatment.
Stay Beautiful,
Nurse Sheena
