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Platelet-Rich Plasma Benefits

The magic of your own blood makes this a personal, natural treatment. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) may be added to your fractional resurfacing or microneedling with RF treatment and topically applied to boost healing and to treat signs of aging to the face, neck, and décolletage such as wrinkles, skin tone, and dark spots.

Beyond use as a serum, PRP may be injected for visible rejuvenation of the skin, for hair restoration, or to add volume to areas such as under-eye hollows, the lips, or cheeks as we can also blend it with a filler product such as EZ-Gel. To learn more, reach out to our Marin County or San Francisco locations and set up your appointment today.

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What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma?

Platelet-rich plasma involves a simple blood draw—about the same amount drawn for a blood test. This is why this treatment is sometimes referred to as a vampire facial. Your blood is placed in a specialized vial and spun in a centrifuge which separates the plasma or fibrin from the other blood components into concentrated layers. This valuable plasma is then drawn from the vial with a syringe and immediately prepared for application or injection.

Because we are reintroducing your own plasma back into your body rather than a foreign substance, there’s no possibility of an allergic reaction, and the chance of infection is minimal.

The Concentrated PRP Contains:

  • Growth Factors: Think of these as keys that unlock the magic within your cells. The unlocked cells are “told” to divide and grow and to make more elastin and collagen. Growth factors can also ease inflammation, another way they “de-age” your appearance. After our 20s, our body produces less and less growth factors, so PRP adds in what our bodies can no longer produce.
  • Platelets: Healthy, younger-looking skin has great blood circulation and platelets help facilitate this. They also activate collagen and elastin production, which improves your skin’s texture and tone. And platelets are healing—the more you have in your skin, the faster and better you heal and limit inflammation.
  • Fibrin: A matrix that holds your platelets and other growth factors together.
  • Stem Cells: Promote healing of damaged skin cells, initiate collagen production, reduce sun-damaged elastin fibers, and promote new elastin formation.
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PRP for Facial Rejuvenation

Used as a Serum

At the start of a Scarlet RF, Agnes RF, Fraxel DUAL, Venus Viva, or fractional resurfacing treatment, your blood is drawn and spun while you are being treated. Microneedling or laser treatments intentionally and precisely wound and/or inflame your skin, making it easily penetrated and ideal for applying the concentrated PRP or PRF. Immediately, your body’s healing process begins repairing tissue, growing cells, and producing collagen—all boosted by your own plasma.

Used as an Injectable

This treatment option assures no wasted PRP and precise placement directly into the area of collagen production and cellular activity. As with use as a serum, your skin’s healing processes are triggered by your treatment, followed by a cascade of cell growth, collagen synthesis, and other natural anti-aging benefits.

I had my first Scarlet treatment and PRP at Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics and was so pleased with the entire experience. Linda was extremely knowledgeable and professional, which was comforting as I had no idea what to expect with these treatments. I started noticing results immediately: tighter skin, a reduction in sun damage, and even the softening of my fine lines. I am confident that if you are considering these treatments, you will be really happy with the results.

Mary K.

EZ GEL Filler

In the constantly evolving world of cosmetic procedures, the advent of plasma fillers has been eagerly received. Using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), scientists have taken huge steps toward producing the perfect cosmetic filler that enhances volume and extends shape longevity. The most recent innovation is the EZ Gel Filler.

EZ Gel is an autologous plasma filler that is used to treat several parts of the face—under-eye, cheeks, chin, etc. It has no additives, chemicals, or artificial compounds. It combines proteins and cells derived from your own blood—PRP, PRF, and albumin—to produce a unique filler that stimulates cell growth and the long-term secretion of growth factors.

Before & After

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is platelet-rich plasma?

What are the benefits of microneedling with PRP?

Who is a good candidate for microneedling with PRP?

When will I see my results?

How long does the PRP procedure take?

Can I have an allergic reaction to these treatments?

How much downtime is required for a PRP procedure?

Is more than one PRP treatment recommended?

What is platelet-rich plasma?

We obtain platelet-rich plasma (or PRP) by drawing a small amount of blood from your arm into a sterile tube. This sample is centrifuged to separate your plasma, which we use for the treatment, from your red and white blood cells. Plasma contains high concentrations of platelets, stem cells, and growth factors. Platelets help your tissue heal and grow new cells.

Historically, PRP has been primarily used in orthopedic medicine, dentistry, and reconstructive surgery to help speed recovery. Now cosmetic dermatology also uses it to help damaged, aging skin grow new collagen and elastin for beautiful, youthful results.

What are the benefits of microneedling with PRP?

When PRP is used with microneedling, it penetrates your skin through the tiny channels the needles create, supercharging the microneedling benefits.

Who is a good candidate for microneedling with PRP?

Microneedling with PRP is a very safe and effective treatment for adults of all skin types who wish to improve their skin quality and health. The depth of the microneedling device can be adjusted to meet the patient’s individual needs and objectives. Due to its low-risk profile, microneedling with PRP is a good option for people who are not good candidates for lasers, such as those with darker skin types.

When will I see my results?

You’ll notice an immediate “glow” to your skin and it will continue to improve over the next few weeks. The full results can be seen up to six months post-treatment as collagen production continues.

How long does the PRP procedure take?

Adding PRP or PRF to your treatment only adds a few more minutes. The initial blood draw adds practically no additional time, as it can be done while you wait for your skin to numb prior to treatment. The blood is processed in the centrifuge during your treatment. Whether your plasma is applied as a topical serum or injected, you can expect about ten additional minutes. Your overall appointment time will vary depending on your treatment area and the type of treatment you and your practitioner choose.

Can I have an allergic reaction to these treatments?

Since the extracted plasma is autologous—which means it contains substances that come directly from your own body—it is not possible for your system to have an adverse reaction. This is one of the reasons PRP is so exciting and safe for medical, dental, and cosmetic use.

How much downtime is required for a PRP procedure?

The downtime is minimal, with only one to three days of mild redness, depending on the aggressiveness of the treatment. A post-treatment kit will help speed your recovery. You will be asked to stay out of the sun for 24 to 48 hours following the procedure and avoid washing the treated area until the next day. Some minor bruising and swelling may occur.

Is more than one PRP treatment recommended?

The addition of PRP to your treatment can decrease the overall number of treatments needed. Different treatments yield different results, and other variables come into play: the intensity of treatment, your goals, your skin type, your options for downtime, treatment area, and more factors. You and your practitioner will discuss the number of treatments you may need during your initial consultation.

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