Who wouldn't???? At the HH, we offer Microdermabrasion, as well as Microdermabrasion with PRP.... to help brighten & tighten, add collagen naturally, improve skin texture & tone, and so much more....read below to learn more answers to your burning questions.
I am Dr. Amber Beckenhauer. I am a Family Physician, as well as the founder of the Healthy Human and
HH MedAesthetics. I offer Aesthetics, as well as Hormone Replacement Therapy, Primary Care, Procedures, and more. I truly have a passion for a well-rounded medical practice and offering each and every individual their best chance at a healthy life. Live your BEST life....and look, as well as feel, GOOD while livin' it!
Today we will uncover what PRP, Platelet Rich Plasma, is and what the microdermabrasion procedure entails....follow with me.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, or what is referred to as the “PRP Facelift” or "Vampire Facelift" is one of the hottest new treatment options on the market today. We can thank Kim Kardashian after she underwent her PRP treatment in 2013. PRP is actually an evidence-based treatment that uses your body’s own blood cells and growth factors to promote a more youthful appearance by helping smooth the skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and scars.
PRP therapy is used not only on the face but has shown many benefits for other parts of the body as well. Medical professionals began using PRP injections on the joints, such as knees and shoulders, years ago. It is believed to help accelerate the body’s own growth and healing processes. As the process uses your own cells, proteins and growth factors, there is no danger involved with the treatment. Evidence has shown benefits for use on the face, stomach, arms, knees, and thighs. It has become a popular remedy for scars and stretch marks. At the HH, we also use PRP Hair Restoration to treat hair loss. PRP is o great way to promote natural hair growth.
In a platelet-rich plasma facial, the growth factors present in PRP work in combination with micro-needling or microdermabrasion to stimulate collagen production, which in turn, improves skin tone, texture, and fine lines.
A typical treatment will usually involve three main steps:
Preparation: Before the facial can begin, your Physician or provider will have a nurse/assistant isolate PRP from your blood. Using a needle, they will draw a small amount of blood from your arm, just like in a typical blood draw. They will then spin the blood sample in a centrifuge to help separate the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. If your treatment includes microdermabrasion, the nurse will apply a topical anesthetic at this time.
Microdermabrasion: Once the anesthetic has taken effect, your provider will use a special device to prick/puncture the skin. This stimulates collagen production and creates small punctures to allow the PRP to penetrate the skin.
Application: Finally, your provider will apply the concentrated PRP to the treatment area and massage it into the skin.
You may need multiple treatments to see the effects of a platelet-rich plasma facial. It may take up to 12 weeks for visible/best results to appear.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
As PRP therapy is a blood-based therapy, it is advisable to refrain from taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as those containing ibuprofen, as well as blood thinners such as aspirin. It is important not to drink alcohol or take these kinds of drugs within 72 hours prior to your treatment.
After your treatment, refrain from washing your face for at least 24 hours.
Avoid vigorous exercise and hot settings such as saunas and hot showers for 24-48 hours post-treatment.
Reduce your exposure to the sun by using sunscreen when going outdoors.
Avoid swimming pools and other activities that may expose your skin to chemicals.
What are my risks and side effects?
Aside from temporary redness, bruising, and inflammation, the side effects of platelet-rich plasma facials are limited when performed by a qualified medical professional. Because the procedure involves drawing blood and puncturing the skin, more serious complications like scarring, infection, and excessive bleeding can occur. You should not get a PRP facial if you have a history of blood clotting disorders, bleeding disorders, or other blood diseases.
If you are too nervous to go "under the needle" for a microdermabrasion, maybe start with a skincare consultation. I will point you in the best direction for your personal skincare needs!
My Best,
Dr. B
