Microneedling is an excellent facial rejuvenation treatment. However, the results can be significantly improved with the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Microneedling alone increases the production of new collagen and helps remodel old collagen. Deformed collagen is associated with wrinkles, acne scars, scars, enlarged pores, and stretch marks. PRP provides additional benefits to help replenish the skin from the inside out and produce longer-lasting effects. Microneedling with PRP plumps the skin and reduces signs of aging to make patients appear more youthful and refreshed.
What Is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma improves microneedling results by stimulating the body’s natural healing responses. PRP contains growth factors that contribute to new cell generation and cellular functions, such as creating new collagen and elastin fibers. Growth factors come in many different varieties and are extremely abundant in our platelets, which are the small cellular particles in our blood that help the blood clot when our tissues become damaged as a result of injury or trauma. Each platelet has three different granule types that are released when they are activated. These granules contain a wide assortment of growth factors that attract stem cells to the area, helping the body heal and create new tissue.
PRP and Microneedling Treatment
- Harvesting PRP: Usually, 30 ccs of your blood is drawn and processed to get three to four ccs of platelet-rich plasma. If you are too squeamish about using your own blood, growth factors are commercially available.
- Microneedling: Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the dermis, which allow the platelets to penetrate the surface. The platelet growth factors (and any other growth factors) would be of no benefit if just rubbed on the outside of the skin. Once the platelets are placed onto the treated areas, they enter the skin and their granules are activated, and the natural rejuvenation process begins.
- Rejuvenation: As your skin heals from the micro-injuries, new cells, collagen, and blood vessels form. This process has a profound effect on our outer appearance.
Enhancing BOTOX® Cosmetic
Patients who have undergone BOTOX® Cosmetic injections can improve their results with microneedling, which helps smooth the targeted wrinkles. The constant movement of the muscles that cause the lines will only impede new collagen production and remodeling deposition in these areas. It is best to perform microneedling at least two weeks after BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment.
After PRP With Microneedling Treatment
Recovery
This procedure has minimal downtime, but patients are advised to avoid direct sun exposure for a few days. It is also recommended to rest for 24 hours after the treatment. Most patients can wear makeup by the second day.
Results
Typically, a series of four microneedling sessions are performed two to three weeks apart to achieve the desired effects. By undergoing PRP microneedling treatments at regular intervals, there is a significant improvement in collagen production and skin contraction. Usually, eight to 12 weeks after the series is completed, the final results are noticeable. Most patients can preserve their results by scheduling a single maintenance microneedling appointment every four to five months.
For more information about PRP with microneedling, please fill out our online contact form. You can also call our office at 318.219.8555 or 888.305.6693 to schedule a consultation.