When it comes to minimally invasive aesthetic procedures that deliver incredible results, it is hard to beat microneedling. This innovative treatment reveals smoother skin with less visible pores, less wrinkles and fine lines and eases imperfections, leaving skin looking flawless and youthful. The addition of your own PRP platelet-rich plasma to microneedling yields even more impressive results than microneedling alone. If you’re interested in learning more about the many benefits, today Valley Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center is exploring the complete guide to microneedling with PRP.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling works by stimulating your skin into producing more collagen. Applicators used for microneedling are FDA cleared, ensuring precision, safety and optimal results. While it does involve tiny needles, microneedling is a quick and comfortable facial procedure that’s ideal for skin resurfacing.
After a topical anesthetic (numbing cream) starts to take effect, your Valley Dermatology practitioner glides the medical grade device across the target areas. Thanks to its precise needle distribution, the pin pricks are administered at a clinically proven, safe and effective depth. These minuscule pin pricks cause minor stress to the skin which stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This increases collagen and elastin production, so the recovered skin is firmer and more even in texture and tone.
How PRP Enhances Results
Microneedling with PRP is the same as traditional microneedling, except at the beginning of the treatment your blood is drawn and at the end of the treatment, your own platelet-rich plasma is applied to your face.
After blood is drawn from your arm by a licensed practitioner, it is placed in a centrifuge machine for preparing the PRP. The centrifuge uses centrifugal force to separate the blood into components based on their weight. The heaviest that rest at the bottom are the red blood cells. The rest is platelet-rich plasma, which is not red in color. These activated platelets are then applied directly into your face throughout the microneedling procedure. The PRP allows the microneedling to penetrate deeper in the skin, releasing growth factors that stimulate your body’s natural reparative cells.
Common Target Areas
Microneedling is a versatile procedure that can be safely used to target the following areas:
- Acne Scars – PRP accelerates healing, breaking down scar tissue and smoothing skin.
- Surgical Scars – PRP boosts collagen, softening the appearance of scars.
- Age Spots – PRP lightens hyperpigmentation, reducing the visibility of age spots.
- Fine Lines & Wrinkles – PRP increases collagen, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Large Pores – PRP tightens skin, reducing the appearance of large pores.
- Reduced Skin Elasticity – PRP restores firmness and elasticity to loose skin.
- Uneven Skin Tone – PRP balances discoloration, promoting a more even complexion.
Lasting Benefits of PRP For Glowing Skin
Part of the complete guide to microneedling with PRP includes a long list of benefits for firmer, more youthful looking skin.
Boosts Collagen Production
PRP is rich in growth factors that stimulate collagen and elastin production, which helps to rejuvenate the skin and improve its texture and firmness.
Accelerates Healing
The growth factors in PRP speed up the healing process by encouraging cellular repair, which reduces recovery time after microneedling and enhances skin regeneration.
Reduces Inflammation
PRP helps to minimize post-treatment redness and inflammation, providing a more comfortable and quicker recovery.
Improves Skin Tone & Texture
PRP enhances the results of microneedling by targeting uneven skin tone, acne scars, and fine lines, offering a smoother and more even complexion.
Stimulates New Cell Growth
PRP contains proteins that promote the growth of new, healthy skin cells, improving overall skin vitality.
Enhances Absorption
The microchannels created by microneedling allow the PRP to penetrate deeper into the skin, maximizing its rejuvenating effects.
Minimizes the Appearance of Scars
PRP works with microneedling to soften the appearance of scars, especially acne and surgical scars, by stimulating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.
Provides Long-lasting Results
The combined effects of microneedling and PRP lead to prolonged results, with improvements in skin texture and elasticity that can last for months.
FAQs
How Many Treatments Are Required For Optimal Results?
Treatment plans vary based on each patient and the target area being treated. Most patients need three to five treatments to achieve desired results. For rejuvenation and lasting results, patients often get one or two treatments a year after the initial treatment sessions to maintain optimal results.
Is There Downtime After Microneedling With PRP?
After a microneedling with PRP treatment, your skin may feel tight and dry or sensitive to the touch. It may also look swollen and feel sunburned. The redness and sunburn feeling generally subside within 24 hours of treatment and the other side effects tend to disappear in 2-7 days. It is important to wear mineral sunscreen as skin is especially sensitive to sunlight as it heals. At Valley Dermatology, we recommend avoiding extreme sun exposure for a few days following your treatment.
Am I A Good Candidate For This Treatment?
At Valley Dermatology, we will evaluate your skin and review your medical history during your complimentary consultation to determine if microneedling with PRP is right for you. While most patients can do microneedling with PRP, there are a few exceptions. Microneedling is not suited for pregnant patients or people who have recently undergone radiation treatments.
Why Choose Valley Dermatology For Microneedling with PRP
Valley Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center is your premier destination for comprehensive and compassionate dermatological care in the Pacific Northwest. Led by Dr. Scott Smith, our skilled team is dedicated to delivering top-notch medical services and ensuring an optimal patient experience. We prioritize attentive listening, addressing concerns, and crafting personalized skin treatment plans.
Specializing in skin cancer treatments, including Mohs micrographic surgery, as well as cosmetic services like microneedling, our experts are here to assist with concerns ranging from acne to fine lines and wrinkles, as well as skin disorders. Trust us for unparalleled service on your journey to healthier, beautiful skin. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.