PRP - what is it, where can we use it and what does it involve?

PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. We take a sample of your blood, spin it down in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from the red blood cells. The plasma rich in platelets is then injected back into areas of your face, neck and scalp to promote rejuvenation, stimulate collagen and elastin production, cell regeneration by promoting new cells to be made and hair follicles to grow.

Interestingly PRP was first used in the orthopaedic medical world. It was used to help the healing of bones, cartilage and surrounding tissue by slowing down the breakdown of cells in bones and tissue, and stimulating new cells. At some point it’s properties and benefits were realised in the aesthetic world.

The main areas we use PRP in aesthetics are the face, neck and scalp.

There are LOADS of benefits to PRP, and particularly the Cellenis® system. I’m writing a blog about why I chose Cellenis®. Because we are using your own blood, we are treating the signs of ageing with practically no external agents, the only one being the anticoagulant used in the collecting tube to stop the blood from clotting so that we can extract the platelet rich plasma. There have been no reported cases of allergic reactions to the Cellenis® system. The downtime is minimal. We use a tiny very thin needle to inject the PRP, minimising the pain, redness and swelling.

There are very few risks and side effects. We use a local anaesthetic cream to numb the skin. You may get some redness and swelling around the areas that have been treated, however this should settle in 24-48 hours. You may get some bruising, which again will settle, and you might have a ‘tight’ feeling that should settle in a day. Your practitioner should discuss your medical history, the risks and benefits with you before the treatment. As with any procedure where the skin is broken we warn people about the risk of infection. Rare side effects include scar tissue formation and allergy to other products used in the treatment, such as antiseptic wipes. 

Your pre-treatment consultation should include a treatment plan specific to your needs. For greatest benefit we recommend a course of treatments, either 3 or 5 treatments 1 month apart. PRP can be used on an ongoing basis regularly to maintain the benefits. Your practitioner will provide you with aftercare advice.

You should start to notice the skin is more plump, hydrated and healthier with less fine lines and wrinkles. If PRP sis being used to stimulate hair growth, the effects may take longer and multiple treatments are usually recommended.

To read more about how PRP works have a look at my previous blog.

 To discuss PRP treatment at our Wilmslow clinic and schedule a free telephone or video consultation click below