Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments for the face, also known as the Vampire facial, have become incredibly popular over the years— thanks to celebrities like Kim Kardashian and model Bar Refaeli. And although Kim K. had the procedure done almost ten years ago, it’s still one of the most popular facial rejuvenation treatments done today.
Our blood has unique healing properties to expedite the recovery of damaged tissues and the capabilities to stimulate new cell production. Plasma is the liquid part of the blood, and when separated, it can be injected into various parts of the body to improve and advance the healing process.
Platelet-rich plasma is the main ingredient used for Vampire facials to help stimulate new collagen growth and speed the healing process to damaged skin.
So, what exactly is platelet-rich plasma? How is it made and applied on the face? We share all the details you need to know about PRP treatments for the face.
Platelet-rich plasma is made up of two components; plasma, the liquid part of your blood that’s made of proteins and water, and platelets, a type of blood cell that has clotting abilities and growth factors. Together, the liquid can stimulate tissue regeneration and has healing capabilities that can help damaged or injured skin.
To create platelet-rich plasma, blood is drawn from the patient and placed into a device called a centrifuge that spins the blood to a point where it separates the platelets and plasma from other blood components. The plasma is then fully concentrated with the platelets from the blood, making the liquid enriched with healing and cell generating properties.
PRP liquid is injected back into various parts of the body or the face to help stimulate healthier cell production and heal any damaged tissues. PRP liquid is used for facial rejuvenation treatments, also known as the Vampire facial.
Platelet-rich plasma for the face is used with a microneedling procedure, also known as the Vampire facial. The treatment uses a microneedling technique performed by a dermatologist using a special derma roller that creates tiny punctures to the face. The punctures help stimulate collagen production deep in the layers of the skin. The PRP liquid is injected or massaged into the face simultaneously with the microneedling. The main objective for using PRP with microneedling is to take advantage of the body’s ability to heal itself by using the stem cells and growth factors in the blood to rejuvenate the skin.
A PRP treatment for the face is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed in a board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon’s office. The procedure takes about an hour to complete and is considered an outpatient or doctor’s visit.
Here is a basic breakdown of a PRP treatment procedure:
Typically, patients don’t experience any downtime with a Vampire facial because the PRP treatment promotes a quicker healing process. Patients will notice redness and slight swelling of the face but can resume their normal activities for the remainder of the day.
Patients will notice a difference in their skin about 2-3 weeks after the procedure. The activation of collagen production from the microneedling along with the cell regeneration process from the PRP injections will make the skin more robust and supple.
To achieve a fully rejuvenated complexion and revitalized skin, dermatologists recommend at least three treatments 4-5 weeks apart from each procedure.
A PRP treatment uses your body’s natural healing components to regenerate and improve the skin back to a healthier state. However, working with your body’s natural healing process takes time to see results. Using dermal fillers will deliver quicker results but at the cost of adding preservatives and manufactured ingredients into your body to stimulate collagen production. A PRP or blood facial treatment is the natural alternative to dermal filler injections.
To find a board-certified dermatologist experienced with PRP treatments, use our “Find a Doctor” navigation tool for a medical professional in your area.
- VM
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