What is PRP?

PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. It is the layer of blood that contains high levels of platelets, growth factors, dormant VSELs and stem cell activating factors. During a PRP procedure a small amount of blood is removed with a needle, the blood is spun in a centrifuge and the PRP layer is concentrated. The PRP is then extracted with a syringe and can be used for a whole variety of purposes. Any place you want to stimulate or heal the PRP will do its magic.

What are PRP Vampire Facials?

With PRP “Vampire” facials the PRP layer is concentrated and then microneedled into the skin of the face. A microneedle devise uses 12 small needles at the head of a pen that moves up and down making little holes in the skin. Once those little holes are made in the skin the PRP that you drop onto the skin gets pushed deep into the epidermis of the skin. This stimulates new collagen growth, new blood vessel growth and rejuvenates the skin.

Who are good candidates?

The PRP “Vampire” facial is great for anyone with fine lines and wrinkles on their face that they are wanting to plump up and make fuller. It also works great for minor skin discolorations, sun damage, and even acne scars. PRP vampire facials are a powerful anti-aging treatment that can be used in conjunction with hormone balancing, IV therapy, Ozone therapy, HOCATT and all the other internal therapies we prescribe to make patients look younger and healthier.

How is it different from Botox?

Botox uses a neuromuscular toxin to paralyze the muscles of the face and tighten up the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can be a very powerful procedure but doesn’t work to rejuvenate or restore underlying collagen. PRP Vampire facials work by restoring the underlying collagen structure so that the skin becomes naturally fuller and plumper longer.

How long before I see results and how long do results last?

Depending on the depth of skin damage results will vary but most people notice results after 1 treatment. Studies on PRP facial rejuvenation have shown that an ongoing course of once monthly treatments for 4 months show the best results. Results may last up to a year or longer depending on how well you take care of your skin after. (wear sun block, not smoke, eat healthy antioxidant rich foods, balance hormones, detox, cleanse and moisturize the skin, etc)

Does it hurt?

No. We use a topical numbing agent and also can adjust the depth of the needles to account for different pain thresholds in different people.

What conditions are contraindicated?

Certain autoimmune conditions (ex: Vitiligo, Lupus, Scleroderma), people on steroid medications and long term NSAID use (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc). These medications can affect the functioning of healthy platelets and interfere with effectiveness of treatments. Also people with sensitive or active Herpes Simplex 1 infections may notice that microneedling causes an outbreak. In those patients we can prescribe a prophylactic course of Valtrex or high dose Lysine to prevent an outbreak.

How often do I need to get treatments?

Many people see results after just one treatment. Best results are seen after a course of 4 consecutive monthly treatments. After that a once per year treatment may be enough to maintain results long term.