Microneedling with PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
What is it? What does it treat? Can it help stimulate the production of collagen?
Let’s start with the basics – what is collagen and why is it important for us to help the body produce more? Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body. Collagen is the primary building block of your body’s skin. Collagen’s main role is to provide structure, strength, and support throughout your body
Collagen’s specific roles include:
- Helping fibroblasts to form in your dermis (middle skin layer), which helps new cells grow.
- Playing a role in replacing dead skin cells.
- Providing a protective covering for organs.
- Giving structure, strength, and elasticity to your skin.
Helping your blood to clot.
What happens to collagen as I age?
Your body produces less collagen as you age, and existing collagen breaks down at a faster rate. The collagen is also lower in quality than when you were younger. Women experience a significant reduction in collagen production after menopause. It’s normal for everyone to experience a decline in collagen production after age 60.
Can I tell if my body’s collagen level is decreasing?
Collagen can’t be measured — for instance, in a blood test — but there are signs that your collagen level is decreasing. These signs and symptoms particularly in the face include:
- Skin that’s wrinkled, crepey or sagging.
- Hallowing in and around your eyes and face.
So how do we combat this and attempt to reverse the signs of aging as it relates to the depletion of collagen? Glad you asked! Microneedling with PRP is a fine place to start. This procedure uses tiny needles to pierce the skin allowing new collagen to grow. Microneedling uses your skin’s own natural healing ability to reduce the look of fine lines, scars, and wrinkles. Microneedling is an easy, minimally invasive procedure that you can do as little or as much as you want. Microneedling is perfect if you are looking to simply reduce the look of fine lines, or if you are treating scarring from acne.
Microneedling with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Often, results of microneedling can be further improved when used in combination with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). Studies have shown that PRP can expedite the healing process of tissues and reduce the appearance of pigmentation and acne scarring when used with microneedling. PRP treatment involves using the patient’s own blood as a resource to isolate the platelets with a centrifuge. Because the blood is directly from the patient, the risks of the body rejecting the plasma or having an allergic reaction are minimal. The blood is separated into 3 layers which leaves the PRP available for use during the microneedling process. PRP contains proteins and several growth factors that regulate and activate cell migration and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
By using microneedling as the supplemental delivery method for the PRP, the two treatments work synergistically which leads to more rapid collagen production. Results can vary based on several factors including needle penetration, overall skin health, number of passes and treatments received as well as needle size. Patients will be able to note a youthful radiance and tightening of their skin directly following microneedling with PRP but it is recommended to receive 4-6 treatments 4 weeks apart to maintain collagen production and to optimize their skin rejuvenation.
If you are looking to jump into the medspa treatment world but are apprehensive about putting medications/neurotoxins/fillers into their body – start here! Sempre Day & Medical Spa can help with aging and skin imperfections without foreign bodies. The best way to figure out if this treatment is right for you is to caall and schedule a free consultation with one of our highly trained Nurse Practitioners today! This is a free no obligation consult to discuss your concerns and possible treatment paths. What are you waiting for? Come get pretty with us.
Sempre Day & Medical Spa