Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP is known to be a component of what The Skin Scholar calls the “Micro-needling with activated PRP.” It is called such because PRP, along with microneedling, is famous for its healing effects and collagen-stimulating properties on the skin.
However, does PRP really live up to what people expect from it? Is it a scientifically proven cosmetic treatment or just another made-up “science?” Read on as we break down the principles of PRP and find out whether platelet-rich plasma is a myth or reality!
What’s in Platelet Rich Plasma that makes it special?
Platelet Rich Plasma may be difficult to comprehend for some because the term is too scientific. But, if you remember, in your Biology class, you may have heard that plasma is the liquid part of the blood, mostly made up of protein and water. In addition, it lets your other blood cells (white blood cells and red blood cells) move through your bloodstream.
On the other hand, platelets are blood cells responsible for blood clots. When you have a wound or a cut, the platelets do the work of preventing blood from continuously leaking out the open cut. Moreover, platelets also take part in healing the wounded area.
What makes PRP special is that it can improve the healing of bones and soft tissues. In fact, several studies have proven this healing effect. It is even used in the medical field to treat ligaments, tendons, joints, muscles, and skin.
The fact that PRP has been proven to increase healing time is the principle behind PRP for cosmetic use.
Platelet-rich plasma in Micro-needling with activated PRP is used to heal the wounds that microneedling makes quickly. When this injection is applied along with other treatments, especially microneedling, healthier, tighter, and younger-looking skin should be expected.
To be specific, here are what patients claim to notice after doing the Micro-needling with activated PRP with PRP:
- Plumped up sagging skin
- Reduced wrinkles
- Improved complexion
- Less deep creases
- Wiped out acne scars
Are these claims on PRP too good to be true? Find out as we identify the facts about PRP!
Conditions that PRP can help improve based on studies
As early as now, it should be crystal clear that PRP is a medically legitimate solution to certain conditions. Orthopedic surgeons have been utilizing PRP to help athletes recuperate quickly after an unfortunate sports injury. Moreover, dermatologists are starting to test if PRP can help in treating hair loss.
While these treatments on certain conditions are backed up by science, the use of PRP for cosmetics is still not widely studied. But, this does not mean that PRP is not effective! PRP for facials is only up for more relevant research to be scientifically proven to be effective.
PRP as an anti-aging treatment
The reason why PRP is used for “Micro-needling with activated PRP” is because of its anti-aging effects. After doing the treatment, like a Micro-needling with activated PRP, your skin is supposed to look like it has not aged at all.
To treat the area, you need to have a small amount of your blood drawn. Then, your blood will be separated into layers in the centrifuge.
The centrifuge will now get your platelets injected onto the treatment area using microneedles or a syringe. This procedure lasts for 45 minutes to one hour. And the good thing is, there is little to no downtime.
Studies about PRP
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Platelet Rich Plasma as a medical device and not a cosmetic one. This is because it uses a centrifuge and needles.
Clearly, the FDA is less demanding with authorizing the use of medical devices. So, despite being used highly for cosmetic purposes, some questions regarding PRP are still raised due to a lack of relevant research.
These questions are:
- How many treatments does a client need to achieve younger-looking skin?
- How long should a client wait before their next PRP session?
- How much PRP should the injector administer to a client in one sitting?
- In what area should the practitioner inject the PRP?
- Which equipment will produce the best effects when using PRP? Needles or centrifuge?
- Will there be long-term side effects of injected PRP when used cosmetically?
- Why does PRP only work for some in terms of its cosmetic claims of younger-looking skin?
Safety of Platelet Rich Plasma
Despite lacking more in-depth research, the procedure itself seems to be safe for clients. There might be bruising, pain, and swelling after the procedure. But these effects usually go away after a few days.
Now, the biggest concern with this procedure is how the facility will handle your blood. So, make sure that you do it in a clean and certified medical spa to ensure that the blood drawn from your body is sterile. Otherwise, you may get an infection.
To be safe, make sure that the medical spa follows regulated processes set by the governing body to ensure that your blood is the one being injected into you. If you get injected with somebody else’s blood, your body may react to it differently, causing you severe sickness.
Is PRP the perfect treatment for you?
Suppose you have wanted to try PRP for a while already. In that case, it is best to see a professional performing cosmetic procedures for a while. These professionals have relevant experience and in-depth training regarding your skin’s needs. They know how to evaluate your skin and prescribe the perfect treatment for you.
Although PRP left many questions unanswered, you will help answer these by undergoing treatment.
Is Platelet Rich Plasma a Myth or a Reality?
Based on what was discussed, Platelet Rich Plasma is definitely a reality! However, this does not mean that it is a good reality. Remember that PRP for cosmetic purposes is still in need of research that will solidify its claims.
Yes, Platelet Rich Plasma is already used for medical purposes, which helps support PRP being a reality. The procedure itself is legitimate, despite results varying from person to person. Should you decide to be bare-faced and confident through Platelet Rich Plasma or the “Micro-needling with activated PRP,” do not hesitate to call your nearest medical spa.
