PRP Facials

What is PRP and what does it do?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a component of human blood that has a high concentration of nutrients and growth factors. Referred to as "liquid gold", this concentrated all-natural serum can be applied to many areas of the body to speed up healing and increase cell turnover for stronger, healthier tissues. The therapeutic use of PRP is a revolutionary treatment being used with great success for skin rejuvenation, joint pain, hair loss, and more. Unlike synthetic injectables, PRP comes from your own body so there is a very low chance of an adverse reaction. Your body is ready to take it up and knows exactly how to utilize it.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a procedure that uses a tool containing very tiny sterile needles that move up and down to create micro lesions in the skin which allows for ideal penetration of products such as PRP. This increases blood flow to the skin and induces a beneficial inflammatory response, which leads to an influx of cells that will repair and replace old and damaged cells. The result is improved skin texture and brightness.

The combination of PRP with microneedling is a powerful formula that causes the skin to rebuild collagen and elastin much more efficiently than it would normally. The maximum results can be seen after 4 weeks, when the skin has finished its natural remodeling phase. Microneedling with PRP helps to resurface the skin, shrinking pores and giving an overall more youthful, glowy, and "air-brushed" look.

Dr. Catalina has the training and experience in PRP facials and uses the only FDA-approved microneedling tool, the SkinPen.

Is a PRP Facial right for me?

It is ideal for acne scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation issues such as melasma and sun spots.

While PRP is very safe and effective, since it comes from your own body, there are some cases in which microneedling with PRP is not recommended. This is because the growth factors in PRP increase cell turnover, and there are certain skin conditions in which we do not want this effect

Absolute Contraindications to microneedling with PRP:

Active skin cancer on the face: PRP may potentially contribute to growth of unwanted cancer cells if present already.
Keloid scarring: PRP may induce growth of keloids, a type of abnormal scar.
Anticoagulation therapy: Use of warfarin or heparin can cause increased bleeding.
Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
Autoimmune (anti-IgE) urticaria

Relative Contraindications: (It depends on your case)

Hirsutism (coarse, unwanted facial hair in women): While small areas of facial hair can be avoided, there is still a risk of increasing the hair growth (this is why PRP works so well for hair loss on the scalp!).

Acne: active acne lesions can similarly be avoided if there are few, and PRP has antibacterial properties that can actually help clear it up. If the acne is moderate to severe with multiple lesions, however, we run the risk of spreading the bacteria further as the microneedling pen moves from one area to the next.

What will the treatment be like?

First, we will have a brief consultation in which we discuss your areas of concern and make sure the procedure is right for you. This can be done in person or via telephone call.

Next, the appointment will start with the application of numbing cream to the skin to minimize any discomfort. Then, a small sample of blood will be taken just like a normal blood draw. The blood tubes are placed in a centrifuge to separate the yellow PRP from the red blood cells and other components.

The procedure itself involves using the microneedling pen to "polish" the skin of the face and neck all over, while the PRP liquid is applied simultaneously. Depending on the skin's sensitivity and experience with microneedling or chemical exfoliation, some minor and temporary pinpoint bleeding may occur and is normal. While the numbing cream will help a lot, some minor discomfort or pressure can occur in particularly sensitive areas such as around the nose and eyes, but I will be sure to move quickly when treating delicate areas and spend more time on areas of concern. The intensity of the microneedling movement is adjusted based on the skin's response to ensure optimal results. A final coat of PRP will be applied to finish off the treatment.

What should I expect afterward?

The day of the procedure, it is ideal not to wash your face until the next morning, then you can use a gentle cleanser. The PRP will continue to absorb into and protect the skin. It is very important to stay out of the sun for the next 3 days or so, since your skin is extra sensitive at first. Similarly, avoid excessive sweating to reduce the risk of infection. While individual experience can vary, the skin will likely feel a bit tender for the next 1-3 days, like a sunburn.

Ensure that the skin stays hydrated by using the calming serum included in your treatment, which will help it recover faster with less discomfort. Over the next 4 weeks, collagen production will ramp up to leave the skin looking softer, smoother and brighter.

How many treatments do I need?

Many patients notice an improvement in their skin 2-4 weeks after their first treatment, while others may need 2-3 treatments before seeing results. We recommend a series of 3 treatments, spaced apart by 4-6 weeks, to achieve more noticeable results. Recommended frequency of treatments will be tailored to each patient based on their goals.

How can I make the most out of my treatment?

Because PRP is a product of your own blood, factors such as overall health, age, and hydration and nutrition status will influence the quality of PRP and the outcome of treatment. Ways to maximize your results will be discussed at the initial consultation.