You may have heard all the hype around PRP facelifts and PRP facials. Both utilize your own blood to unlock your body’s natural regenerative powers and can have noticeable results that last 1-2 years. But what is the difference between these two treatments, and which one is best for you?
Platelet Rich Plasma
Both treatments utilize the numerous benefits of PRP. We generate PRP at the time of your treatment. A small amount of your blood is taken and spun at high speed through a centrifuge to separate out the platelet-rich plasma.
Platelet-rich plasma is concentrated with healing growth factors. These growth factors stimulate the body’s regenerative processes, bringing about significant results.
What is a PRP Facial?
A platelet-rich plasma facial starts a microneedling procedure. Microneedling is a process by which incredibly tiny needles are used to “stamp” the skin, creating small channels into the deeper levels. Then, after PRP is derived from your blood, it is applied topically to the face. It is absorbed into the skin through the channels created by the microneedling procedure.
Side Effects of a PRP Facial
There is typically very little risk to this procedure as it uses your own blood. Allergic reactions or other negative reactions are quite unlikely. Because with any needle, infection is a possible concern, it is essential you have your microneedling procedure done by a reputable and experienced practitioner. Your skin may have some redness immediately after the PRP facial, but that will resolve in a couple of days.
Results
Results will appear over time, with full results occurring after a few months. By stimulating the body’s natural healing response with microneedling and adding the rejuvenating properties of platelet-rich plasma; PRP facials will:
- Improve skin tone
- Improve overall skin texture
- Reduce the appearance of scars, including acne scars
- Help minimize dark undereye circles
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduce the appearance of sunspots and hyperpigmentation
What is a PRP Facelift?
The PRP facelift differs from the PRP facial in that platelet-rich plasma is combined with injectable fillers in order to create an even better result than fillers alone. The treatment area is more targeted instead of being over the entire face, and results in that particular area will be more dramatic.
A hyaluronic acid filler is injected into the treatment area. Fillers can add back lost volume to the skin, smooth fine lines, improve sagging, and stimulate collagen production. Following the filler injection, PRP derived from your blood is injected into the area at a shallower depth. The regenerative properties of PRP will boost the benefits of your filler and create longer-lasting results.
Side Effects of a PRP Facelift
Like other filler treatments, there is very little downtime, and risks are considered low. Similar to a PRP facial, you can return to your normal daily activities immediately. You may experience some redness, bruising, and swelling at the site of your injections. These should resolve in a short period of time.
Results
Fillers act immediately to plump skin, while PRP will improve results over the next several months. Results of this combination of treatments include:
- Improving lost volume
- “Lifting” sagging skin
- Smoothing fine lines and wrinkles
- Improving tone
- Smoothing skin’s texture
- Improving elasticity
How to Choose Between a PRP Facelift and a PRP Facial
If you still have questions about these PRP treatments or need help choosing which is right for you, contact us today. We are experts in both procedures and can evaluate your individual concerns to help you determine which treatment is best for your skin.
