MICRONEEDLING with PRP

Microneedling with PRP, also known as a Vampire Facial®, is a cosmetic treatment used to address various skin conditions. The technique involves using a pen-like device comprised of micro sterile needles on the skin. When pressed on to the skin, it creates controlled, microscopic injuries, which stimulates collagen. While the micro-channels are open, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is topically applied and pushed into the skin to further promote healing and enhance the anti-aging benefits. Treatable areas include the face, neck, décolletage, arms, abdomen, knees, chin, and any areas that have stretch marks or post-surgical scarring, although the most requested areas are face, neck, décolletage and hands.

We use a device called a SkinPen, which creates hundreds to thousands of “micro” skin punctures per second to stimulate the skin’s natural wound healing process–inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling–to prompt tissue remodeling without causing scar tissue formation. Incorporating PRP (platelet-rich plasma)–your own blood plasma–is another great option to add to microneedling. The combination dramatically magnifies the rejuvenating effects of microneedling with no risks related to rejection, allergies or other negative side effects of harsh chemicals.

Total healing time depends on each individual patient. It is best to not plan any important events 1-2 days after the procedure. Most people are able to return to work the day after treatment. Most patients should expect the following:

• Day 1: Mild to moderate redness, similar to a sunburn. Possible mild swelling, bruising and slight pin point bleeding. Your skin may feel tight and warm.
• Day 2: Fading but some persistent redness easily covered with makeup. You may note skin dryness and slight flaking.
• Day 3: Most redness, any bruising and swelling should be nearly gone.
• Many patients completely recover within 24 hours. If you had your neck treated, it may take longer to heal. If you have a darker skin type, pigmented areas may darken before they grow lighter.

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E and alcohol for 7 days before treatment.
• Avoid sun exposure/burns twenty-four (24) hours prior to treatment.
• Discontinue use of retinoids twelve (12) hours prior to treatment.
• You should not have an active breakout, active cold sores, or open lesions. If this occurs, your microneedling treatment should be rescheduled.
• Wait at least:
• Forty-eight (48) hours before or after Botox treatment to have a microneedling treatment.
• One (1) week before or after any fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, etc.
• One (1) month before or after laser treatments such as IPL, VBeam, etc. or chemical peels such as Vitalize, Rejuvenize, etc. or Microdermabrasion treatments.

THE DAY OF YOUR APPOINTMENT

• If possible, arrive without creams or make-up on the treatment area. Topical numbing cream will be applied to treatment area, please arrive 15-30 minutes early. Cleansing products are available for your convenience.
• Pre-treatment photos will be taken.
• The treatment areas will be wiped with alcohol.

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

• Do NOT apply anything to the skin for 6-8 hours after treatment. This includes make-up, SPF and products of any kind.
• Avoid clothing, headbands, hats or scarves on the treated area. If clothing is to be worn over treatment area, we recommend cotton clothing that hasn't been treated with fabric softeners or dryer sheets.
• Redness and/or swelling is common and will resolve over time.
• Only use the products suggested by the physician for the next twenty-four (24) hours. Do not use any other skincare products (cleansers, moisturizers, or sunblocks).
• After 24 hours, use regular PCA Facial Wash product for skin type.
• Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen, alcohol, heavy exertion and activities which may cause flushing for 2 days.
• Avoid harsh topical products such as retinols and glycolic acid products for one week after.
• Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater for 4-6 weeks after your treatment. We recommend the PCA or SkinCeuticals Sunscreen.

Regardless of your concerns, we  recommend starting with a minimum of 3 sessions. For best results sessions are spaced 4-6 weeks apart. With as few as three non-invasive and affordable treatments spaced 30 days apart, you can improve your skin's overall tone and texture. The SkinPen is also FDA-approved for the treatment of acne scars. 

This procedure is safe for all skin types. Microneedling should not be used on patients who have active skin cancer in the treatment area(s); open wounds, sores, or irritated skin in the treatment area(s); an allergy to stainless steel or anesthetics; a hemorrhagic (bleeding) disorder or hemostatic (bleeding) dysfunction; are pregnant, or nursing; or are currently taking drugs with the ingredient isotretinoin (such as Accutane). 

There are various alternatives and complementary treatments for patients wishing to rejuvenate their skin. Other treatments include collagen stimulators, chemical peels, laser resurfacing and medical grade skin care products.