Microneedling as a facial cosmetic technology is not new. Originally microneedling was performed with needles of varying lengths on a roller. These were replaced by battery-operated hand-held “microneedling” pens that were created based on tattooing devices. However, the purpose remains the same, the goal is for the needle punctures to stimulate wound healing, trigger collagen production, and enhance skin remodeling.
Not too long after the introduction of the “micro-pens” the use of post microneedling topical skincare products can be applied into the skin. Research showed that after having the treatment done, the procedure channels were open for a short time allowing delivery of products and substances to the deep (active) layers of the skin called the deep dermis.
These areas happen to be where a lot of the pigment is produced. At first, only antioxidant vitamins such as topical Vitamin A and Vitamin C were used, then bleaching agents (Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid) were added to the list of post treatment topical agents. If PRP is not used, these topical agents can still be applied after microneedling. The channels created by the microneedles let these agents (and the PRP) penetrate the skin layers that they normally could not reach!
What is PRP?
As part of the new wave of research in the field of regenerative medicine, researchers have found that the single most active post procedure topical is autologous platelet-rich plasma or PRP. This advanced technology utilizes a specific part of your own blood to “supercharge” the healing process.
The platelets contain proteins or growth factors that act as messengers to get the body to deliver “repair materials” to the area you’re treating. The combination of microneedling plus PRP supercharges the results.
Recently studies have shown this combination to be particularly helpful with stimulating hair growth in certain types of thinning hair conditions. (Hair restoration with PRP)
What Skin Conditions does PRP with Microneedling Treat?
PRP facial rejuvenation has been shown to improve the following skin conditions:
- Facial wrinkles
- Rough skin and texture
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars
- Sun damage
- Burn scars
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
- Fine lines
PRP for facial renewal is a natural method to stimulate your body’s healing properties for skin rejuvenation.
How is Microneedling with PRP Performed?
Approximately 2 ounces of your blood is drawn and processed in a centrifuge, while a topical anesthetic cream is administered to the area to be treated.
When your body’s platelets are concentrated by centrifugation, (spinning the blood) and a separation procedure, the number of platelets in a certain amount of volume can be increased by three to tenfold.* When using this concentrated form of platelet-rich plasma, we can accelerate the healing process and skin rejuvenation in patients.
Microneedling is performed in a series of 3-5 treatments spaced out about 4-6 weeks apart. There really is no significant downtime. A flushed appearance and a recommendation to avoid the sun the next few days after the procedure are the only signs that a patient has had something done. After a couple of these treatments, your skin develops a beautiful glow signaling that your body has started recreating new collagen.
A recommendation of a refresher treatment every 6 months to a year will help you keep your skin healthy and glowing. Read more about Microneedling with PRP at our La Piel Medical Spa website.
If you would like to learn more or have questions about using your own plasma to rejuvenate your skin, schedule your consultation with Dr. Manuel Peña or with Rosa Harp, RN who will perform the treatments.
*Individual results may vary. Consult with Dr. Peña to see if you are a candidate.