HealthCert Blog

Over time, the body loses its ability to produce growth factors, which can cause visible signs of ageing. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a way of introducing growth factors directly back into the patient’s skin to increase volume, tightness and elasticity. Watch a demonstration of the procedure below.

Aesthetic uses of PRP

PRP therapy is great for treating fine lines and wrinkles, skin laxity, acne scarring and improving skin texture. It can be used for rejuvenation of the face, neck, decolletage, hands and around the eyes, and can be used in combination with other treatments including microneedling and laser.

PRP is a safer and more natural procedure than toxins and dermal fillers as it uses the natural healing properties of the patient’s own blood. Studies have shown its effectiveness in wound healing, tissue repair and skin rejuvenation.

Why PRP works

As we age, we lose collagen, water retention and skin elasticity. The growth factors contained in PRP initiate a complex biological cascade, regenerating Type I collagen to improve the appearance of the skin’s surface. The platelets augment the epidermis, dermis and sub cutis and enhance the growth of keratinocytes and fibroblasts.

Contraindications of PRP

• Thrombocytopenia
• Platelet dysfunction / coagulopathy
• Skin cancers
• Acute/chronic infection
• Systemic illness
• Severe skin dermatoses
• Pregnancy

How PRP is prepared

After taking a blood draw from the patient, the tubes are placed in a centrifuge at 3000-3300 rpm for 10 minutes. The platelet-rich plasma is separated from the red blood cells and extracted using a syringe, then transferred to 10 1ml luer lock syringes.

The PRP procedure

WATCH: Aesthetic Medicine Doctor Dianne King demonstrates the PRP procedure.

Learn more about HealthCert’s Certificate Courses in Aesthetic Medicine.

Read more recent research.