Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is blood plasma with concentrated platelets and other growth factors. The concentrated platelets found in PRP contain large quantities of bioactive proteins, including growth factors and signalling proteins that are vital to initiate and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration. Overtime PRP treatment produces a noticeable improvement in the skins texture and tone.
Platelets are an important component in our blood. They contain numerous Platelet Derived Growth Factors (PDGF). These growth factors stimulate the production of collagen, keratin and hyaluronic acid. Increased collagen production helps to correct fine wrinkles and volume loss. Hyaluronic acid is important for skin integrity by improving skin tone and volume which helps skin maintain a more youthful appearance. PRP also works with the clotting ability of the platelets that leads to contraction of the tissues hence making our skin firmer.
PRP treatment can safely be performed on any part of the body, common treatment areas include the cheeks, around the eyes, smile lines, mouth to nose lines, neck, jaw line, chest, décolletage and hands. It can also successfully reduce the appearance of scars.
Other uses of PRP include treatment of hair loss, promoting hair growth after hair transplant, improving male sexual function( P-shot), and improving female sexual functions( O-Shot).
Noticeable improvement in the skins texture and tone is evident within three weeks following treatment and this continues to develop for the next eight months. Results typically last up to 18 months.
All clients are thoroughly assessed for suitability prior to treatment.
Skin is thoroughly cleansed and local anaesthetic cream applied to the injection sites. Blood is then taken removed from the client’s arm and then is processed to harvest PRP using a double spin method. The processed blood is then injected into the treatment area. Although the procedure only takes a few minutes, however, you will be in the clinic for approximately one hour.
At Clapham Skin Clinic, we use Cellenis®, PRP Lab® , RegenLab® PRP and other systems.
You may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but the use of a topical local anaesthetic cream will help keep this to a minimum.
It is normal to experience some swelling and redness for a few days following treatment. There is also the possibility of mild bruising, but this can be easily concealed with makeup and should resolve within a few days. Sun protection is strongly recommended.
Due to PRP treatment involving the use of the client’s own blood, the risk of an allergic reaction, disease transmission or toxicity is very minimal. Infections are rare as PRP contains a high concentration of white blood cells, an important component of our blood that fights infections. This procedure can safely be performed during pregnancy but as with every cosmetic treatment this is assessed on a case by case basis.
Anyone with active skin infections, skin disease, cancer, undergoing chemotherapy, severe metabolic and systematic disorders, abnormal platelet function (i.e. blood disorders) and underlying sepsis are not suitable for PRP treatment.
The initial number of PRP treatments required varies depending on the needs of the individual client. Most of the clients will have 3 to 5 monthly sessions. Maintenance treatments are recommended every one yearly depending on skin type and condition.
Dr Baba, a highly trained and experienced aesthetic doctor who is also a senior trainer for this procedure at London Aesthetic Academy (www.londonaestheticacademy.co.uk) will perform your procedure.