PRP FACIAL with the SkinPen® Precision treatment
BENEFITS
- Smoother skin
- More even skin tone
- Clearer complexion
- Rejuvenated appearance
PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma and when combined with a microneedle, it is famously known as the PRP Facial. It is an advanced anti-aging + healing treatment. Your own blood is used as a skin booster solution, that induces the synthesis of collagen. This stimulation aids in the overall firming and toning of the skin, resulting in a more youthful + rejuvenated appearance. It is remarkably effective for: scars, wrinkles, sun damage, uneven skin tone, stretch marks, lax skin, large pores and thin skin.
A CLOSER LOOK
PRP is not only rich in platelet cells but also numerous growth factors that play a role in tissue growth, healing and regeneration. These specific growth factors include: Transforming Growth Factors Beta (TGFB), Platelet-Derived Growth Factors (PDGF), Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF), Epithelial Growth Factors (EGF) and Fibroblast Growth Factors-2 (FGF-2). VEGF are one of the most important PRP components which functions to increase blood flow, oxygenation leading to increased collagen growth, tissue restoration and skin regeneration.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The PRP Facial first begins with cleansing the face then the clinician will apply a topical anesthetic to your treatment area to allow for greater comfort during the procedure.
Patients can also take Tylenol prior to the facial is further aid in comfort.
Next the blood is drawn from the patient’s arm (about 2 oz).
Through a process called centrifugation, the platelets are spun down and separated from the other blood cells, which then increases the platelet concentration within the plasma.
Once the face is fully prepared, this newly formed PRP is then injected into the specific treatment area, so your skin regenerates collagen + elastic fibers more efficiently.
To further enforce + speed the healing process, the SkinPen® Precision System (an FDA approved microneedling device) is used with the Platelet Poor Plasma (PPP, a useful byproduct after the centrifuge process). The microneedle creates thousands of precise microinjuries in the skin, to stimulate the body’s natural wound-healing process, while minimizing cellular damage.
The result: new skin cells rich with human growth elements, allowing the skin to
heal and renew itself, ultimately creating younger, firmer, + more supple skin.
SIDE EFFECTS
There are no adverse reactions since this procedure uses your own blood. The use of a patient’s own blood eliminates any allergic reactions associated with blood transfusions. Immediately following the procedure, the most commonly reported temporary side effects are redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, tingling, numbness, lumpiness, and/or a feeling of pressure or fullness at the injection sites and/or in the treated area(s).
CONTRAINDICATIONS
The PRP Facial with the SkinPen® Precision System should not be used on patients who:
• Have active cancer including skin cancer in the treatment area(s) with immunosuppression
• Have open wounds, sores, keloid scars or irritated skin in the treatment area(s) including active: eczema, bacterial or fungal infections, collagen vascular disease, rosacea +/or psoriasis
• Have an allergy to stainless steel or anesthetics
• Have a hemorrhagic (bleeding) disorder or hemostatic (bleeding) dysfunction, and/or taking blood thinning medications
• Are pregnant or nursing
• Are currently taking drugs with the ingredient isotretinoin (such as Accutane)
WHAT TO EXPECT
After the procedure, the skin will be red and flushed in a similar way to moderate sunburn. You may also experience tightness and mild sensitivity to touch on the area treated. This will diminish greatly after a few hours following treatment and within the next 24 hours. Cold gel packs/ice may be applied immediately after treatment to reduce swelling.
Although not seen in the clinical study, you may experience reactivation of herpes simplex virus (cold sore), pigment changes that include lighter or darker skin in the area treatment that resolves over time, or no change in acne scars.
PRE-TREATMENT
Avoid sunburn or sun exposure 24 hours prior
Discontinue Retin-A, retinoid cream, or skin lightening creams 24 hours prior
Avoid treatment with active infections of the skin or numerous acne breakouts
Notify your provider if you have ever had herpes simplex virus (cold sores)
Avoid artificial tan 24 hours prior
Avoid auto-immune treatments 24 hours prior
Arrive promptly to your appointment, so you have time for the topical anesthetic to work
Avoid treatment 6 months following oral isotretinoin (such as Accutane) use
Avoid anti-inflammatory & blood thinning medications (i.e. ibuprofen, Aleve, Aspirin, Vit E, fish oil)
POST-TREATMENT
Be aware microchannels are still open for 24 hrs post treatment
It is recommended to keep the PRP from the treatment on your skin for a minimum of 10 hours post procedure. If possibly, avoid washing your face until the following day, with a gentle cleanser treatment (e.g. Aquanil or similar) once to twice daily.
Day of PRP Facial: if there is plasma left over from the treatment, your provider will give it to you in a tube to take home. Apply as liberally as needed. Your face will feel dry, and will soak it up quickly. Please use this FIRST, before applying the creams given.
In your SkinPen Treatment Kit, you will receive 2 small tubes (10ml each): Skinfuse LIFT HG + RESCUE Calming Complex.
Once the leftover plasma has been used, you’ll begin applying the Skinfuse LIFT HG cream, again as liberally as needed. Following that, you’ll use the Skinfuse RESCUE Calming Complex cream. This is further help soothe and calm the skin.
When the plasma and 2 tubes of cream have been applied, you can then turn to your beauty supply cabinet and use your own gentle cleansers & creams.
Use sunscreen SPF 30+ daily post 24 hrs
Makeup application can resume post 24 hrs, as well as you may return to your regular skin care routine including Retin-A, retinoid cream, or skin lightening creams, Vitamin C + Hyaluronic acid
Avoid prolonged sun exposure + sweaty exercise for first 24-48 hrs post treatment {Note: Exposure to these conditions could led to: itching, burning, stinging, and tingling, scaling/dryness, redness, swelling, and tenderness/discomfort}
Schedule as early as 4 weeks for the next treatment
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the down time for this treatment?
We recommend at least 24 hrs as your treatment area will resemble that of a moderate sunburn. Day 2-3, redness and subsequent side effects will be minimal. However, there is a significant inter-individual variability in platelet concentration and bio-stimulation, therefore, results will be different in every treatment.
Is it safe?
Yes! It works for all skin types – dark to light. The SkinPen® is surrounded by a proprietary BioSheath that acts as a barrier to prevent cross contamination between procedures. And single use sterile needle cartridge is used for every patient. Your own blood is utilized for the PRP procedure, so there is no risk for allergic reaction during the injections.
How many treatments should I use in order to achieve optimal results?
Ideally at least 3 treatments, 4 weeks apart.
Can I have other skin treatments done after I have a PRP Facial?
It is recommended to avoid other facial aesthetic treatments the month following your PRP FACIAL with the SkinPen® Precision treatment. These treatments can commence one month after you have completed your PRP series.
How long does the procedure take?
Total time is 2 hrs or less. The procedure itself takes roughly 45-60 minutes. However, the numbing of the treatment area & preparations of the platelet plasma take 1 hr.
Can I wear makeup the day of my appointment?
Please arrive with skin exfoliated, clean and with no makeup on. Please note, it is recommended not to wear make up for at least 24 hours after the treatment, as the microchannels remain open for at least 24 hrs post treatment. What you put on your skin matters!
When should I call my practitioner?
Call your practitioner immediately if you experience: signs of infection such as an increase in redness, warmth, itching, or pus formation. This would typically happen within a day or two after the treatment. Allergic reactions to the test material(s) are rare but can consist of severe contact dermatitis (rash) or itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. This risk is increased for individuals with a history of allergies, and individuals with asthma and/or a history of hives, and itching.