Benefits of Microneedling with PRP

The "vampire facial" uses your own plasma to rejuvenate skin

Microneedling can improve the appearance of your skin, and adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP) adds even more benefits.

What is PRP microneedling?

Also called a “vampire facial,” microneedling with PRP uses your own plasma to help your skin heal and repair itself.

A practitioner takes a small sample of your blood and spins it in a centrifuge to separate out the platelet-rich plasma. That PRP is like a super-concentrated version of your blood, packed with growth factors and other proteins that help your skin heal and look its best.

Next, a microneedling tool creates tiny, microscopic holes in your skin. These little pinpricks are what kickstart your skin’s healing process. When the PRP is applied, it gets to work stimulating collagen production and cell reproduction. It's like fertilizing your skin from the inside out, leading to smoother, more even-toned skin.

Benefits of PRP microneedling

This treatment is all about giving your skin a supercharged boost. Microneedling with PRP can help with many skin issues, like:

Acne scars
Surgical scars
Broken capillaries
Wrinkles and fine lines
Hyperpigmentation
Sun damage
Large pores
Uneven skin texture
Hair loss

For a more comprehensive approach, problem areas are injected directly with PRP. “Resting lines, such as frown lines between eyebrows and lines around the mouth, benefit most from PRP injections,” says Jennifer Koehler, chief plastic surgery physician assistant. “PRP also can be used to stimulate hair growth when injected directly into the treatment areas. This stimulates cellular repair and regeneration and gives a more pronounced and accelerated improvement.”

Who is PRP microneedling right for?

Any skin type is a candidate for PRP microneedling, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re pregnant, using Accutane, have active acne or certain skin conditions, or if you have a history of poor wound healing, it might not be the best fit for you.

Most people start with 3 to 4 sessions, spaced about a month apart, to see the full benefits. Then maintenance treatments are done every 6 to 12 months. And while it’s a minimally invasive treatment, find a medically trained professional, like a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, to do the job.

What to expect during recovery

The good news: Recovery from PRP microneedling is quick. You might feel a bit sore and see some redness or mild bruising right after the treatment, but that usually clears up in a few days. You can even go back to work or school the next day if you want.

PRP microneedling recovery tips:

Keep it simple with your skin care routine — cleanse once a day and moisturize with the cream you’re given.
After 48 hours, you can use a lightweight foundation or powder to cover any redness.
Avoid anything too harsh, like alcohol-based products or exfoliants, and make sure to wear sunscreen.
Take it easy on the workouts for at least 72 hours to avoid sweating and further irritation.

Your provider will give you specific aftercare instructions to follow. They might suggest using a soothing serum or balm right after the treatment to calm any redness or irritation. And of course, Ms. Koehler says, “Make sure you protect your skin from the sun as well.”

Most people start to see improvements in their skin within 2 to 3 weeks, and the full results are usually visible by 4 to 6 weeks. But the effects aren’t permanent, so you might consider regular treatments every 6 to 12 months after your initial treatments if you want to keep that glow going.