Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that provides a considerable improvement in skin tone, texture and colour. This treatment is often referred to as "Dracula or Vampire treatment" as the client’s own blood is used to achieve skin rejuvenation. Platelets contain a high content of “growth factors” – proteins that help to heal injured tissue or damaged skin. Upon re-injection the platelets release their growth factors which trigger surrounding cells to proliferate, in turn stimulating repair, increasing volume and rejuvenating the skin. PRP treatment can be performed on any part of the body. Common treatment areas include the cheeks, the eye and mouth area, the neck and jaw line, chest, décolletage and hands. It is also an effective treatment for scarring, hair loss and vaginal rejuvenation. Noticeable improvement in the skin will be observed within 3 weeks post treatment and will continue to develop over the following 8 months. Typically, the results will last up to 18 months.
For most clients the procedure is typically well tolerated, and only mild feelings of discomfort are experienced. Local anaesthetic cream is applied to the target area 45 minutes prior to the procedure which helps minimise any discomfort. Prior to treatment all clients are screened for suitability for PRP treatment.
The procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes but can vary depending on client needs. Blood is taken from the clients arm and processed using a double spin method to harvest the PRP. Clinical evidence suggests that using a double spin method harvested PRP works more efficiently due to the plasma having a higher concentration of platelets. The local anaesthetic cream is removed, and the target area is cleansed again prior to the PRP being injected.
The downtime following PRP treatment is minimal. It is not unusual to experience some swelling and redness for up to a few days post treatment. There is also the potential for mild bruising however this is usually quickly resolved but, in the meantime, can be easily concealed with makeup. Regular sun protection using SPF50 is strongly advised. Because PRP treatment involves the use of a client’s own blood there is a very minimal risk of disease transmission, toxicity or an allergic reaction. Due to PRP being rich in white blood cells (an essential component of our blood that fights infection) the chances of an infection following treatment is very unlikely. This procedure is also safe to be performed during pregnancy.
The initial number of PRP treatments required varies between individuals. We recommend Maintenance treatments every one to two years depending on skin type and condition.