Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a progressive, non-surgical treatment that utilizes a patient’s own blood to promote healing in various areas of the body. At Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC, we use PRP treatment to rejuvenate the skin and restore a youthful look.
Who Is a Good Candidate for PRP Treatment?
Ideal candidates for PRP in anti-aging are those seeking to diminish the signs of aging without undergoing invasive surgical procedures or those looking to restore hair loss. If you have begun to notice a decline in skin elasticity, or an increase in fine lines and uneven skin tone, PRP therapy could be a suitable option.
Since PRP utilizes your own blood, the risk of adverse reactions is significantly low. The treatment is well-tolerated, and at our clinic, it is performed under conditions that prioritize your comfort and safety. Throughout the PRP therapy journey, we prioritize your comfort. We employ topical anesthetics and the latest injection techniques to minimize discomfort. Your experience during the treatment is just as important as the outcome, and we strive to make it as positive as possible.
We collaborate with you to design a treatment plan that not only addresses your aesthetic concerns but also fits into your lifestyle. Flexibility in scheduling and understanding the demands of your personal and professional life are part of our commitment to providing a patient-centered approach to aesthetic care.
What Is PRP?
PRP therapy involves the extraction of blood from the patient, which is then processed to concentrate the platelets. These platelets are key components in the body’s natural healing process. By injecting this concentrated platelet-rich plasma into the affected area, we aim to accelerate the body’s repair mechanisms.
Platelets and Growth Factors
Platelets are not just vital for clotting; they also contain a plethora of growth factors. These growth factors, such as Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), Transforming Growth Factor (TGF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), and Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), play a critical role in healing and tissue regeneration. When injected into the tissue, these growth factors recruit and increase the proliferation of reparative cells.
Stimulation of Collagen Production
One of the key processes in anti-aging is the production of collagen, the protein that gives skin its structure and elasticity. As we age, collagen production naturally decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. PRP stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production, thus enhancing skin quality and firmness.
Angiogenesis
Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels. VEGF in PRP promotes angiogenesis, which improves blood supply to the treated area. This new blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients, crucial for tissue repair and regeneration, leading to healthier and more vibrant skin or to a scalp more conducive to hair growth.
Activation of Stem Cells
In the realm of hair restoration, PRP is believed to activate stem cells in the hair follicle bulge area. This activation is thought to enter the hair follicle into the growth phase (anagen phase), promoting hair growth and increasing the diameter of the hair shaft.
Cellular Communication and Signaling
Growth factors in PRP also enhance cellular communication. They bind to cell receptors and activate intracellular signaling pathways, which lead to cell proliferation, differentiation, and ultimately tissue regeneration.
PRP and Anti-Aging
In the realm of anti-aging, PRP is primarily harnessed to enhance skin rejuvenation. The treatment involves using your concentrated platelets to promote collagen production and elastin growth, which are essential for maintaining youthful, resilient skin.
For skin rejuvenation, we often combine PRP with microneedling—a procedure that creates micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. This combination encourages the skin to heal and renew itself, leading to a smoother, firmer, and more youthful complexion. The procedure is relatively simple.
We start by drawing a small amount of your blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to isolate the platelet-rich plasma. Concurrently, we perform microneedling to prepare your skin for the PRP application. The PRP is then applied to the skin, where it penetrates the micro-channels created by the microneedling. The synergistic effect of microneedling with PRP application can significantly enhance the regenerative processes in the skin, addressing fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture.
PRP for Hair Restoration
When it comes to hair loss, PRP therapy has shown very promising results. The growth factors in the concentrated plasma can stimulate dormant hair follicles, potentially leading to hair regrowth. The treatment process for hair restoration is also very straightforward:
- Blood is drawn and processed to extract PRP, just as with skin rejuvenation
- The PRP is then carefully injected into the scalp at the level of hair follicles
Consistency and patience are key, as multiple sessions may be required to achieve noticeable results. The procedure is minimally invasive and requires no downtime, allowing you to resume daily activities promptly. Individuals experiencing early signs of hair thinning or those with certain types of alopecia may find PRP therapy beneficial. It’s particularly effective for those seeking a non-surgical approach to hair loss.
Talk to Us About PRP Treatment
As your partners in aesthetic health, we are committed to providing you with personalized care that reflects the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine. To learn more, talk to us at Steele Creek Dermatology in Charlotte, NC now.
