PRP

What is platelet-rich plasma?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a solution created from your own blood. It’s formed by taking a small amount of blood, separating the solids from the liquids, and then reintroducing the platelets into the now-cleared plasma. 

Platelets help blood clot and also promote new cell development. Plasma helps carry nutrients, proteins, and hormones throughout your body and also removes cellular waste. 

What are some dermatologic uses for PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma reduces inflammation and promotes new cell growth. That makes it a powerful force for healing and is why PRP therapy is becoming more common in many areas of medical practice. 

When administered via shallow injections into your facial tissues, PRP helps promote new collagen development. This improves the appearance of sun damage as well as sagging or wrinkled skin. Incorporating PRP into microneedling sessions is also effective. 

It’s also possible to inject PRP into areas of your face where depressed acne scarring is present. As new collagen is produced, it raises depressed acne scars and plumps surrounding skin, making scarring far less noticeable. 

How can PRP help treat hair loss?

PRP therapy is also a good option for treating hair loss. Inflammation is a common cause of hair loss in both women and men. PRP is a powerful way to reduce inflammation, which can prevent additional hair loss.  

Injections of platelet-rich plasma also prompt new hair growth in surrounding hair follicles. Treatments require a series of shallow injections in areas across your scalp, but the entire process takes very little time. You’ll notice new growth beginning several weeks after treatment, with multiple sessions needed to achieve optimal results. 

Is PRP therapy painful?

The process of creating the platelet-rich plasma solution is similar to a blood draw for general medical screening. It’s far less lengthy and involved than the process of donating blood. You’ll feel a pinprick as the needle enters your vein, and the entire process takes just moments. 

Once the solution is prepared, the treatment injections are administered using a very thin needle. The injections don’t penetrate deep within your body. Dr. Blum is very experienced in PRP therapy and places injections deftly. 

There’s no need for anesthesia or any special preparation. You won’t need to take time out of your normal routines for recovery. That’s part of what makes PRP such a popular and versatile therapy. 

If you’re ready to learn more about this natural treatment option, schedule a visit with Dr. Blum today, online or by phone.