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You may wonder if there is a a way to turn back the clock. Incredible advancements allow you to slow the effects of aging. These cutting-edge practices do not require you to endure painful or prolonged procedures, nor do they require you to undergo surgery.
One of the most advanced of these minimally invasive techniques has to be Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). This procedure can significantly reverse the effects of aging, leaving your skin looking and feeling radiant and youthful!
What Is Microneedling with PRP and How Does It Work?
At Santa Fe Vein & Medical Spa, we offer microneedling using the Eclipse MicroPen™ Elite, a device which creates controlled micro-injuries to the skin triggering it to produce collagen and elastin. Automated microneedling creates superficial micro-channels which can be used with topical gels, creams, and serums to improve the appearance of the skin. It has been shown to be effective in treating all parts of the body, including the face, neck, décolleté, arms, hands, legs, abdomen, and back. Previously, we offered these treatments with topical application of growth factors obtained from a pharmaceutical source. Now, we can perform these procedures in the office with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP).
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has been utilized in various aspects of healthcare for approximately 40 years. PRP plays an important role in soft tissue healing. It has had numerous applications in different medical fields, to include cardiology, dentistry, orthopedics, rheumatology, and plastic surgery. It is well known for its role in wound healing, and has been used to heal ulcers in diabetic patients, to help burn patients, and to expedite bone fracture healing and cartilage repair. PRP plays a vital role in anti-aging aesthetics because of its ability to stimulate collagen, improve skin tone, reduce wrinkles, and reverse sun damage.
So what is so magical about PRP? The answer lies in the platelets themselves. Platelets contain numerous growth factors which initiate cell division and proliferation to promote wound healing. More specifically, the growth factors which have been isolated from platelets are known to stimulate the growth of blood vessels, nerves, skin cells, and collagen.
An individual's self-donated blood is the source of PRP used in this procedure. Blood is drawn and then placed in a centrifuge, which is a tool that separates the PRP from the blood. The centrifuge spins the blood for about 15 minutes. PRP contains highly concentrated amounts of natural growth factors that promote the regeneration process of soft tissues. PRP has been shown to stimulate the natural healing process and the production of collagen.
What Should I Expect?
Before the procedure, a topical numbing cream desensitizes the skin. The PRP is prepared. A sterile cartridge containing 12 points is attached to the Eclipse MicroPen™. Our Medical Aestheticians apply a thin layer of PRP to the skin and select the appropriate pen setting based on the treatment plan. Then, in a single motion, the pen is gently pressed against the skin while simultaneously gliding in one direction until the entire treatment area has been covered. PRP is also applied topically at the conclusion of the treatment.
The procedure is virtually painless. While some areas are more sensitive than others, the speed of the reciprocating tip reduces discomfort while the applied hydrating gel also makes the treatment more comfortable. The procedure itself takes 30-60 minutes depending on the size of the area treated. Immediately after the session, there is often a bright redness of the skin. The total healing time depends on the settings used and the number of overlapping passes performed. On average, patients experience redness for approximately two days. Many patients heal entirely in as little as 24 hours. Timeframes and individual results may vary from patient to patient.
Am I a Good Candidate?
If you are bothered by fine wrinkles around the eyes, nose or mouth, acne scars, age spots, or stretch marks, microneedling with PRP may be a good option for you. Unlike some other skin resurfacing treatments, microneedling with PRP is safe for most skin types, including darker skin. However, microneedling with PRP may not be your best choice if you are experiencing active acne outbreaks or certain other skin conditions. Our skin care team at Santa Fe Vein & Med Spa will help you determine the most appropriate, safe treatment option for your specific needs at your consultation.
What Are the Benefits?
Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has been shown to be a safe and effective way to improve the tone and texture of skin.
Using microneedling with PRP can help:
- Visibly decrease fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, nose or mouth
- Improve acne scars and any other scarring on the face or body
- Reduce the appearance of stretch marks
- Improve the appearance of loose, lax skin
- Minimize dark spots or hyperpigmentation
- Restore a brighter, more glowing complexion
What Results Should I Expect?
Most patients notice an immediate "glow" to the skin. In most cases, visible changes to the skin develop over the course of several days and weeks. Results may continue to improve up to six months after treatment as collagen production continues. Some patients only require a single treatment once per year to achieve optimal results. However, it is recommended for most patients to receive a series of 2-3 treatments spaced about 6-8 weeks apart. For patients with deep wrinkles, advanced photoaging, stretch marks, or acne scars, it is recommended to receive 6-8 sessions at six-week intervals. Timeframes and individual results may vary from patient to patient.
Find Out if Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Is Right for You
Visit us at Santa Fe Vein & Med Spa to learn more about Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and how it can help you reverse the signs of aging. We will answer your questions and design a skin rejuvenation plan tailored to your unique needs!
Results and patient experience may vary.