Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
What is it?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is basically your own plasma (the “clear” part of your blood that is mostly water and proteins) enriched with your own platelets. Platelets are tiny cell-like structures that play an important role in the clotting mechanism when you get a cut. Platelets are very rich in growth factors that stimulate collagen production and wound healing and also stimulate hair follicles. For this reason PRP injections have been used to treat athletic injuries to tendons and ligaments (Tiger Woods famously was treated with PRP for his injuries). Because of these important growth factors, PRP is now also used for aesthetic purpose, to smooth and thicken aged or damaged skin and to stimulate hair growth.
Why are PRP injections so popular in aesthetics?
PRP is popular because it can be used for a variety of aesthetic concerns, as described below. Its popularity is also due to the fact that it’s completely natural (it’s mad only from your own blood components) and as a result there is no risk of allergy, rejection or toxicity. The side effects are minimal (swelling and bruising) and the results can last several months.
How is it obtained?
During your consultation, blood is drawn from you into a test tube, exactly the same way as for a blood test. The test tube is then placed in a centrifuge for a few minutes. A special filter within the tube separates the plasma and platelets from the red and white blood cells. The platelet-rich plasma is then drawn from the test tube into a syringe and can then be injected in the area of your body where it is needed. The whole process usually takes 30 minutes or less. There is very little discomfort as the needles used are tiny.
How many treatments do I need and how long do results last? Cost?
The improvements in skin or hair quality with PRP injections are gradual. Some patients will need only 2 or 3 treatments for best results while others may need more. For hair loss (alopecia), we recommend an initial cycle of one treatment every two weeks for 3 months and then a touch-up treatment every 6 – 12 months. The cost for each treatment starts at $400.00 and varies according to the size of the area to be treated.
What is PRP used for?
For fine lines and to improve skin quality
The natural aging of your skin is due to an imbalance between the rates of destruction and renewal of cells and collagen. By promoting the process of natural tissue regeneration, injections of PRP improve skin quality and thickness and in doing so, smooth the fine lines of the face, décolleté, hands etc. PRP is the product used for the infamous “Vampire Facelift”.
Dark circles under the eyes
The under-eye area is a particularly fragile region in which may appear a bluish discoloration of the skin as well as fine lines and a crepey texture, making the eyes look tired. This is due to thinning of the skin and from the visible microcirculation underneath. Growth factors present in PRP stimulate the collagen in the skin in the lower eyelid region, making it thicker, more opaque and less wrinkled. The bluish discoloration is thus diminished as the skin regains a youthful brightness and tone.
Scars and stretch-marks
PRP injections are also an effective treatment for stretchmarks, especially in combination with micro-needling, by stimulating the growth of collagen and elastin in this damaged skin. Acne scars and some hypertrophic (ropey) scars also respond well to PRP, usually in combination with micro-needling or the Fraxel laser.
Hairloss or thinning hair
PRP injections into the scalp will stimulate bulb cells at base of the hair follicle and the surrounding microcirculation. The vitality, color and thickness of the hair are enhanced; hair loss is slowed and the growth phase is activated. The results for most patients are more hair that is thicker and healthier. A recent study has shown that PRP is much more effective for hair loss than Rogaine, a very popular but messy prescription product.
Treatment post laser, micro needling and chemical peel
The analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of PRP help to reduce the discomfort and significantly improve the speed of wound healing after laser, micro needling or chemical peel treatments.
Why should I do my PRP treatments at Cosmedica?
Our Cosmedica clinic was one of the first clinics in Quebec to use PRP for a variety of indications. Dr. Benchetrit even supervised clinical studies in the early days of this treatment. We have injected hundreds of patients since 2012 with very consistent results. Our nurses have several years of experience with these injections and have perfected their techniques to make them comfortable and effective. For example, we use a special injection gun that can deliver precise amounts of PRP at exactly the right depth much more rapidly and comfortably than the usual syringe and needle can. Finally, our bulk purchase of the necessary equipment and test tubes means we can keep the costs down for our patients.
How can I get more information about PRP injections?
It all starts with a consultation with our injection nurses. At your consultation, the targeted skin or hair will be carefully examined and recommendations will be made to you regarding the appropriateness of PRP injections and the number of treatments needed for best results. We may also recommend concurrent treatments with micro-needling or the Fraxel laser, especially for scars or stretch marks.
