PRP and Anti-Aging

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has received a lot of attention and it seems we have finally found the Fountain of Youth.

What is the science behind platelet rich plasma (PRP)?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a therapeutic approach in the arena of aesthetic medicine that is progressively becoming more popular and contains great potential. Its utilization in medical scenarios such as cardiac surgery, oral surgery, orthopedics, and plastic surgery has already been documented, and the factual evidence suggests it is continuing to evolve into a diversified treatment in the area of aesthetic medicine. PRP is a form of autologous serum (which is produced from the serum of an individual's own body) with high concentrations of platelets and growth factors comprising hundreds of bioactive proteins.

PRP's clinical application relies on the heightened concentration of growth factors from platelet particles, as well as the exudation of specific proteins, that together can help to accelerate the healing process on a cellular level of the skin. This helps to refuel the skin's innate restorative abilities, amplifying its natural beauty, therefore aiming to improve the skin's overall appearance. Additionally, it can be beneficial in enhancing physical condition and prolonging youthfulness.

PRP, which can be simply taken from your blood, has numerous growth factors that encourage new collagen formation, increased blood vessel growth and a boost in the expansion of stem cells and transformation of soft tissue. Clinically, PRP is known for its effectiveness in aiding hair restoration and skin revitalization, as well as reducing the presence of acne scarring. Additionally, combining PRP treatments with solutions such as lasers, microneedles, dermal fillers, and autologous fat injection can amplify the results, producing an even better overall outcome. PRP is a safe procedure that can be done in a clinical setting.

What is PRP treatment?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure that restores a youthful and glowing appearance to the skin by naturally rejuvenating it and reversing the signs of aging. The process utilizes the patient's own blood, which is enriched with platelets, and re-injected into the skin to release a surge of growth factors that stimulate the body's natural healing process and bring revitalization to areas of the skin.

PRP aids in the generation of collagen and elastin, enhancing weakened skin and resulting in a smoothing of wrinkles and fine lines. This effect is achieved through its boosting of the collagen levels present in the skin, thus improving the quality of the skin's texture and color.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy) is an ideal treatment option for areas that are hard to address, particularly the thin skin under the eyes. Because lasers are not an option for this delicate region, clients tend to notice the first signs of aging.

What exactly is PRP?

PRP is a three-step procedure that involves drawing blood from individuals, as we all possess platelets within our blood.

A venipuncture blood sample of 15 mL is taken and then combined with an anticoagulant for the purpose of this process. After obtaining a whole blood sample, it should be placed in a centrifuge. Centrifugation breaks down the sample into three distinct layers- red blood cells (RBC), platelet poor plasma (PPP), and the highly sought after "liquid gold" PRP layer. With carefulness, the PRP layer that has been divided is removed and kept for treatment and reinfusion.

PRP is currently being used by dermatologists in trials to investigate its potential as a remedy for hair loss. Additionally, PRP has been found to quicken the healing process of wounds. Orthopedic surgeons often employ it to help athletes heal more rapidly from sports-related injuries.

PRP may sound like something straight out of a science fiction novel, but some patients have found that PRP can:
- reduce wrinkles
- Plump sagging skin
- Remove deep wrinkles
- improve complexion
- Reduce acne scars.
- Little to no downtime.

How does PRP help skin rejuvenation?

The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in combination with microneedling is becoming increasingly prevalent in aesthetic medicine as its efficacy is being recognized. Through creating small punctures in the skin, microneedling enables PRP to penetrate deep into the dermis for a noticeable improvement in skin structure, as well as enhanced wound healing and expedited recovery time. This process also reduces post-treatment erythema, the melanin index of the treated area, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), in addition to inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Thinning hair treatment with PRP

Research on PRP has revealed that it is a highly promising treatment for thinning hair, male pattern baldness, female pattern baldness and alopecia areata. PRP growth factors act by stimulating differentiation of hair follicle stem cells, increasing blast survival and activating anti-apoptotic pathways. It also induces and prolongs the proliferative growth phase of hair follicles, promotes angiogenesis and perifollicular angiogenesis, as well as dermal papilla fibers.

Studies have indicated that PRP improves hair restoration, but an inadequate protocol is sometimes used. To gain maximal benefit, a series of injection treatments monthly is suggested until you observe significant improvement, and then switch to maintenance treatments every 3-6 months.

How can I obtain platelet-rich plasma for treatment?

PRP therapy is highly sought after due to its natural, abundant and non-allergenic properties. It is advantageous as it is created from an individual’s own blood, making it free from unwanted side-effects or rejection of treatment.

What is the PRP procedure?

Sixty minutes prior to the procedure, an anesthetic cream will be applied. Depending on the area to be treated, PRP can be administered directly or through the use of a dermapen for application of microneedles into the skin. Upon completion of PRP treatment, reddening, slight swelling, and warmth of the affected area will be observed. These effects will subside in the succeeding 24 hours.

To facilitate healing during the initial stage, it is best to steer clear from direct sunlight and refrain from using active skin care products like retinol, AHA, and BHA.

After about three to four weeks, the intended results can be seen, with the outcomes generally stretched at around 12-18 months after three to four sessions of PRP treatments.

Treatment of breast sagging with PRP

PRP breast skin rejuvenation is an amazing procedure that does not involve an incision, anesthesia or an extended recuperation period - in fact, it can even be carried out during the patient’s short lunch break! Patients can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable treatment session, which starts with the removal of a small vial of blood from the arm and its transfer to a special centrifuge.

Next, the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is extracted from the blood, and it is then injected into the breasts to produce more collagen fibers. The results will be evident in the following weeks or months and will make the skin appear firmer, smoother and younger-looking.

Can PRP make your breasts bigger?

Patients who are looking to enhance the size or fullness of an area may find more success with injectable skin Fillers than PRP therapy. PRP therapy is still a highly effective skin tightening tool, but fillers offer a more significant change in volume. A combination of treatments, such as fillers, wrinkle relaxers, PRP skin rejuvenation, and more, is often used to achieve a complete transformation.

Am I a candidate for PRP therapy to firm my breasts?

Patients considering breast skin rejuvenation with PRP should:
- healthy
- Non-smoker
- Want a non-surgical skin rejuvenation solution
- There is mild sagging of the breast skin.
- Have realistic expectations for results.

Musculoskeletal application of PRP

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections have been shown to be highly effective in treating chronic non-healing tendon injuries and cartilage degeneration [R]. These injections help to regenerate connective and skeletal tissues by stimulating the growth of collagen and proteins that may have been lost in the tissue. PRP treatments have been proven to be an effective means of treating conditions ranging from tennis elbow to Achilles tendonitis, and are widely preferred by professional athletes.

Is PRP safe?

Dermatologists still have many open questions, but the procedure itself seems safe.You may experience some pain, bruising, and swelling afterwards. These tend to disappear within a few days. The greatest risk lies in the way blood is handled. It is essential to keep the blood drawn from the body sterile. Otherwise, you may develop an infection. For your safety, the center should also follow the same process blood facilities use to ensure that you infuse your own blood. you may get sick.

How long does it take to see results?

If you’re embarking on a PRP therapy, it’s natural to wonder how long it will take before you start seeing results. The answer is going to depend largely on how efficiently and consistently you go for your therapy. Generally, it’s realistic to expect results in 4-6 weeks. Results might come faster or slower, depending on individual body and lifestyle factors.

Although PRP is considered safe for most people, it is not recommended for people with any of the following medical conditions:
- Hepatitis C
- HIV or AIDS
- All types of blood cancer.
- Cardiovascular disease requiring anticoagulant medication
- Skin cancer in the area to be treated

Additional Resources:
1. https://thebiostation.com/bioblog/benefits-of-prp-and-microneedling/#:~:text=Platelet%2DRich%20Plasma%20(PRP),and%20more%20youthful%2Dlooking%20complexion.
2. https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/younger-looking/platelet-rich-plasma-secret-to-younger-skin