by Aesthetic Doctor, Cindy Kerbel
In the rapidly advancing field of aesthetic medicine, Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) represents a groundbreaking innovation, offering a natural and effective approach to rejuvenation and regeneration. From its inception to its current prominence, the versatile applications of platelet-rich plasma and its transformative power have garnered widespread attention.
In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a journey to uncover the scientific intricacies of PRP, exploring its mechanisms, applications, and benefits for use in aesthetic medicine.
Table of contents
- WHAT IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA?
- HOW DO PRP TREATMENTS WORK?
- PRP FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION
- PRP FOR HAIR RESTORATION
- PRP FOR INTIMATE WELLNESS
- OTHER AESTHETIC APPLICATIONS OF PRP
- CONCLUSION
WHAT IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA?
Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated form of plasma derived from blood. A patient’s own (autologous) blood is drawn, and, through a meticulous process of centrifugation, the plasma is enriched with a higher concentration of platelets, which are rich in growth factors essential for tissue repair and regeneration. This ability to harness the body’s innate healing mechanisms through the powerful regenerating action of PRP, offers a natural and safe alternative and complementary treatment to traditional aesthetic interventions.
HOW DO PRP TREATMENTS WORK?
As mentioned, platelets, a crucial component of blood, play a pivotal role in the healing process. Upon activation, platelets release a plethora of growth factors, including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-B), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
Once injected into target tissues, the growth factors within PRP stimulate a cascade of cellular events, including cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, and collagen synthesis. This regenerative response and the production of essential proteins (collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid) leads to tissue repair, improved blood supply, and an overall rejuvenation of the treated area.
PRP FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION
PRP facials, affectionately dubbed “Vampire Facials,” have garnered widespread acclaim for their ability to revitalize and rejuvenate the skin. This innovative treatment combines the regenerative properties of PRP with microneedling, a technique that creates micro-injuries to enhance product absorption and stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. The result is a synergistic approach to facial rejuvenation, addressing concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation irregularities. This treatment is also a wonderful way to boost the functioning of a patient’s skin, reduce inflammation, and improve its barrier function.
HOW IS A PRP FACIAL TREATMENT PERFORMED?
The journey towards radiant skin begins with drawing a patient’s own blood, followed by the liberation of PRP through the process of centrifugation. Once the PRP is prepared, it is introduced into the skin either topically with microneedling or through superficial injections.
This process stimulates cellular renewal, laying the foundation for vibrant and youthful skin.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates our signature 3D MD PRP treatment improves on the normal Vampire facial treatment by including a sterile medical-grade hyaluronic acid along with a specifically chosen active ingredient to tend to your individual skin needs when injecting the platelet-rich plasma for even more improved skin rejuvenation. The PRP and active ingredients are also introduced into the skin in two ways, first by an Aesthetic Doctor using a mesotherapy technique, and then by a Skincare Specialist using a microneedling technique.’ (Ref website).
The procedure ends with the patient being placed under our Dermalux LED lights to further reduce inflammation and improve healing. To ensure comfort, topical anaesthesia is applied before the procedure, and oral analgesia is also made available where necessary.
ARE PRP FACIALS SAFE?
As platelet-rich plasma treatments rely on healthy growth factors to stimulate repair and the production of essential proteins, it is advisable to avoid PRP therapy if you are affected by any of the following medical conditions: cancer or metastatic disease, open wounds with infections, a low platelet count, pregnancy, autoimmune disease, diabetes, keloidosis, are on anticoagulants or have active skin cancer. Patients should also be well with no illnesses in the two weeks preceding the treatment.
These precautions and contraindications to PRP are the same for all applications of PRP treatments.
PRP FACIALS: RESULTS AND RECOVERY
In the days following the PRP facial treatment, patients may experience mild redness and swelling, indicative of the skin’s natural healing response. Bruising may also occur. These transient side effects subside quickly, giving way to a complexion that exudes luminosity and vitality.
Visible results may start from 1-2 weeks post-treatment, but best results can be expected around 3 months after the treatment, as the maturation of new collagen can take up to 90 days. Results will last from 6-12 months. As such, maintenance treatments are usually scheduled 6-12 monthly (but can be performed every 3-4 months if required, depending on your specific skin concerns).
PRP FOR HAIR RESTORATION
UNDERSTANDING PRP HAIR TREATMENTS
Hair loss and thinning is a common, yet complex condition influenced by various factors including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and environmental stressors. As a result, it often requires a multimodal treatment approach. One of the treatments used to effectively address hair loss is through the injection of PRP into the scalp. This innovative approach stimulates dormant hair follicles, promotes hair growth, and prevents further thinning or loss (hair fallout).
HOW ARE PRP HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS PERFORMED?
Once again, a small amount of the patient’s blood is drawn and then centrifuged to liberate the platelet-rich plasma. Once isolated, the concentrated PRP is meticulously injected into the scalp at the level of the hair follicle, targeting areas of hair thinning or baldness. This process is performed with precision and care, ensuring the best possible outcomes and minimal discomfort for the patient.
The patient must be in a state of good health, without any illnesses or autoimmune conditions, ensuring the PRP is in its healthiest state to effectively stimulate hair growth.
The procedure typically takes around 45 minutes, with minimal discomfort and no significant downtime. Patients might experience mild swelling or tenderness over the injection sites, but these symptoms resolve quickly.
For optimal results, it is recommended to start with three treatments spaced one month apart with appropriate follow-up and maintenance treatments six to twelve monthly as needed.
PRP FOR HAIR LOSS: RESULTS AND RECOVERY
While individual responses may vary, patients typically begin to notice improvements in hair quality, thickness and density within several months of treatment. As the hair follicles undergo revitalization and regeneration, the result is hair that exudes vitality and confidence. Regular follow up treatments may, as described, be required to maintain the results, making PRP a valuable component of a comprehensive hair restoration regimen.
PRP FOR INTIMATE WELLNESS
UNDERSTANDING PRP INTIMATE WELLNESS SOLUTIONS
In addition to facial rejuvenation and hair restoration, PRP therapy has gained recognition for its potential to address intimate wellness concerns. From vaginal rejuvenation to urinary incontinence, PRP treatments offer a non-surgical solution to enhance sexual health, satisfaction, and well-being by harnessing the body’s natural healing abilities to rejuvenate delicate tissues.
HOW ARE INTIMATE PRP TREATMENTS PERFORMED?
The approach to improved intimate wellness begins with a comprehensive consultation, where concerns, treatment goals, and expectations are discussed in a confidential and supportive environment. This is to allow for the creation of a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their intimate wellness goals.
Following this, the PRP, prepared from the patient’s blood, is carefully injected into specific areas of the intimate region, such as the clitoris for the O-shot and the elusive G-spot. The entire process takes about an hour, and it is performed in a comfortable and private setting. Topical anaesthesia is applied to the clitoris before the procedure to minimize discomfort during the PRP injections.
INTIMATE PRP TREATMENTS: RESULTS AND RECOVERY
Growth factors within the PRP promote tissue regeneration, improved cellular function, and enhanced sensation. Therefore, this treatment is particularly beneficial for women seeking to improve sensitivity, lubrication, and overall intimate well-being, offering a natural and holistic approach to women’s health.
Following PRP therapy for intimate wellness, patients can expect gradual improvements in tissue health and function. Many women report enhanced sensitivity, increased natural lubrication, and a more satisfying sexual experience. The results typically become noticeable within a few weeks, with continued improvement over several months as the tissues undergo rejuvenation and revitalization and collagen production progresses. Symptoms such as vaginal dryness, laxity, and mild urinary stress incontinence are alleviated, restoring confidence and intimacy.
Recovery post-procedure is generally swift with most patients resuming normal activities within a day.
For optimal and sustained benefits, follow-up treatments may be recommended as part of a comprehensive intimate wellness plan, tailored to each patient’s unique needs and desired outcomes. While an isolated treatment may be sufficient for some patients, a series of three treatments, spaced four weeks apart is generally recommended for optimal results. This treatment can also be combined with the CO2RE Intima Laser in select patients for optimal vaginal rejuvenation and improved intimate wellness.
With minimal discomfort and no downtime, PRP intimate wellness treatments offer a discreet and effective solution for individuals seeking to reclaim their sexual health and well-being.
OTHER AESTHETIC APPLICATIONS OF PRP
PRP TREATMENTS FOR ACNE SCARS
Acne scars, a common aftermath of acne breakouts, can be effectively targeted with PRP therapy. The growth factors in PRP stimulate collagen production and promote tissue regeneration and remodelling, gradually improving skin texture, restoring clarity, diminishing hyperpigmentation, and reducing the appearance of scars. These results are enhanced when PRP is used as part of a combination therapy with microneedling. Patients typically notice a more radiant complexion over the following weeks, with continued enhancement as the skin’s natural repair mechanisms are activated.
PRP TREATMENTS FOR STRETCH MARKS
In addition to its efficacy in treating acne scars, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has also emerged as a sophisticated treatment for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. It can also be used successfully as an adjunct to microneedling.
Stretch marks, often a result of rapid skin stretching during periods of growth or weight changes, can be challenging to address and may be a source of frustration for many patients. PRP therapy rejuvenates the skin by utilizing the body’s natural healing mechanisms. The PRP, rich in growth factors, is carefully injected or microneedled into the stretch marks, stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin elasticity. Over time, this process leads to the gradual fading of stretch marks, resulting in a smoother, more uniform skin texture. Patients may see visible improvements within a few weeks, with optimal results developing over several months. Multiple treatment sessions may be required.
PRP therapy for stretch marks is a minimally invasive procedure with minimal downtime. By promoting collagen synthesis and enhancing skin elasticity, PRP treatments reduce the appearance of stretch marks, restoring confidence and skin integrity.
PRP TREATMENTS FOR SKIN REJUVENATION
Beyond targeted concerns, PRP offers a holistic approach to skin rejuvenation. From under-eye treatments to enhancing skin elasticity and firmness, PRP’s regenerative properties address a wide range of aesthetic concerns, yielding natural and long-lasting results that enhance beauty from within.
THE BENEFITS OF PRP IN AESTHETICS
NATURAL AND SAFE
One of the hallmark benefits and most compelling advantages of PRP therapy in aesthetics lies in its biocompatibility, and natural and safe approach to skin rejuvenation. By utilizing the patient’s own blood, PRP treatments minimize the risk of allergic reactions, adverse side effects, and complications that may be associated with synthetic treatments. By concentrating the body’s own growth factors, PRP stimulates collagen production, enhances cellular regeneration, and improves overall skin health from within. This treatment is minimally invasive, with a low risk of complications, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective solution for various skin concerns. Whether addressing acne scars, stretch marks, or signs of ageing, PRP offers a harmonious blend of science and nature, delivering subtle, natural-looking results that enhance the skin’s beauty and vitality.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
Unlike surgical procedures, PRP treatments are minimally invasive and require little to no downtime. Patients can resume their daily activities shortly after treatment, without the need for prolonged recovery periods, allowing for a seamless integration into their busy lives.
LONG-LASTING RESULTS
With regular maintenance treatments, the benefits of PRP can be sustained over the long term. This longevity of results, coupled with the convenience of periodic treatments, makes PRP an attractive and cost-effective option for individuals seeking enduring aesthetic improvements. PRP can also be used synergistically and in combination with other treatment modalities to enhance and optimize patients’ skin treatment outcomes.
CONCLUSION
Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) stands as a testament to the transformative power of science in aesthetic medicine. From facial rejuvenation to hair restoration and intimate wellness, PRP offers a comprehensive solution to a myriad of concerns, enhancing beauty and well-being from within. As the science behind PRP continues to evolve, so too do the possibilities for achieving radiant skin, luscious locks, and improved intimate wellness.
To embark on your journey towards beauty and confidence with PRP treatments, and experience the rejuvenating effects of nature’s own elixir, it is important to schedule a consultation with an experienced medical aesthetic practitioner to discuss your own unique concerns and create a bespoke treatment plan.
Should you be ready to make a change, email us at capetown@drnwilkinson.co.za to start your journey to radical radiance today.
Written by Aesthetic Doctor, Cindy Kerbel
