PRP Vampire Facial

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a cosmetic skin rejuvenation procedure that involves microneedle injection of some of the clients’ own blood components back into the skin. It is commonly known as a Vampire facial and involves the following steps. A small blood sample is drawn with a needle system from the patients’ arm, the same as having a blood test (Phlebotomy) the blood sample is then placed into a syringe. The blood is spun in a special centrifuge to separate its components (Red blood cells, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Platelet poor plasma and white blood cells). The PRP component is the separated and injected into the client’s skin (E.g. a facial) using a microneedling technique. The PRP is rich in growth factors which promote skin rejuvenation. PRP can be used to improve the appearance of tired and aged skin, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, acne scars, hyperpigmentation and stretch marks.  

PRP is autologous (using your own blood) therefore this virtually eliminates the potential for allergic reactions. PRP has been shown to have tissue regenerating effects. Other benefits include minimal downtime, good safety profile and short recovery time.  

The entire procedure is normally completed within 30-60 minutes, your practitioner will offer you a topical anaesthetic cream to help minimize and discomfort during the treatment.  

More than one treatment will likely be required to achieve or maintain results, but this depends on the treatment aim and client response to treatment. Results can be seen 2-3 weeks after treatment, but peak results are usually seen at 4-6 weeks. The duration of results varies between clients and there is no guarantee that you will achieve desired results. PRP does not prevent recurrence of the condition being treated. Treatment responses vary between clients and there is no guarantee that you will achieve your desired results.

RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS:

As with any procedure there are possible risks associated. It is important that you are aware of all the possible risks and fully discuss these with your practitioner before proceeding.  

Common side effects of PRP include, discomfort or pain during and after the procedure (often described as a stinging sensation). Pain is worse particularly in areas of bony prominence or where the skin is thinner. Immediately following the procedure, the skin may feel tight, swollen and sensitive to the touch. It will also look red and feel sunburned. The sensitivity and redness will likely diminish within 24 hours and should be resolved within 7 days.  

Other common short term side effects include itching, discomfort, pinpoint bleeding or bruising, scabbing and darkening of the treated area.  

Uncommon side effects include, skin infection (Cellulitis) reactivation of cold sores (Herpes simplex outbreak) hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). Darkening or lightening of the skin usually fades within 6 months but in rare cases could be permanent. The risk of pigmentation changes can be minimised by avoiding sun exposure for 4 weeks before and after treatment, using appropriate sunscreen/SPF and by adhering to the pre and post treatment instructions.

Rare side effects of micro needing include skin scarring which may be permanent. There is also a theoretical risk of allergic reaction, but this is extremely unlikely given PRP is sourced from the clients’ own blood.  There is also complications and risks of having your blood taken (Phlebotomy) you must read these also before proceeding with PRP treatment.  

Common side effects of Phlebotomy include pain during the procedure, tenderness over the injection site after the procedure, bruising and bleeding. Some people feel faint when they have a blood test, it is important that you tell your practitioner if you feel faint during the procedure and lay down flat as soon as possible if this occurs. Some people can have difficult veins to draw blood from, if this is the case your practitioner may require more than one attempt to draw the blood successfully. Rarely your practitioner may fail to draw blood and abandon any further attempts.  

Rare risks of Phlebotomy include more extensive bruising (haematoma) skin infection (Cellulitis) vein inflammation (Thrombophlebitis) accidental arterial puncture causing pain and bruising, nerve injury causing temporary pins and needles or numbness to the affected area in the hand or arm.

Pre care PRP Treatment  

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a cutting-edge treatment.  

Eat dark, leafy green vegetables: Nutrition plays a significant role in determining the effectiveness of PRP therapy. The procedure relies on your body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells. That means its crucial to stock up on nutrients that promote good health. One thing you can do is to incorporate more dark, leafy, green vegetables into your diet. They contain vitamins and minerals that may help you maintain your health and promote healthy red blood cells. You may want to consider eating more spinach, Brussel sprouts, kale, collard greens, cabbage, and other similar vegetables.  

Increase your Iron and Vitamin B intake:  You may want to consider increasing your Iron and Vitamin B intake to help your body produce healthy red blood cells. All kinds of Vitamin B are essential for your health, but Vitamin B-12 also called Cobalamin, affects your blood supply more directly. You can get it from meat, poultry, leafy green vegetables, fish, and dairy products.   Iron plays a part in your health as well as that of your red blood cells. Iron facilitates the production of haemoglobin – its what carries oxygen throughout your body. If you have low levels of iron in your blood you cannot make enough haemoglobin.   If you can’t get enough vitamins and minerals from your diet, you may want to consider taking supplements. However, consult with your provider about it first to know if you’re fit to take them and if they’re safe for you.  

Engage in high-intensity cardio exercise: Doing high-intensity cardio exercises will push your heart to pump more blood. In the process, your body produces more red blood cells, meaning you get more platelet rich plasma. Not only that, but you boost your immune system as well. That puts you in the best shape to yield promising results from this treatment.   You don’t have to do complicated workout routines to prepare yourself for the procedure. Running, cycling and climbing stairs will suffice, but make sure you’re doing them at high level of intensity.  

Refrain from smoking and drinking: Smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol affect your health negatively, even outside of the context of PRP therapy. Concerning the procedure, smoking, and drinking may stump its benefits substantially. Both activities take a toll on your health and immune system. Smoking also inhibits your body’s ability to heal and repair itself.   If you engage in these activities before and after PRP therapy, you might not experience optimal results.  

Avoid food and drinks that reduce platelets: Most healthy foods promote good health and facilitate red blood cell production. There are certain foods and beverages you must avoid that can reduce your platelet levels. They’re not necessarily unhealthy, but they may inhibit your body from producing healthy red blood cells.  

Some examples include cranberry juice, tonic water and cows’ milk. You should also avoid garlic, onions, refined grains and sugar, fast food, and junk food. Cured meats like bacon and pepperoni can also negatively affect your treatment.

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Aftercare

The following aftercare advice is essential to help reduce the risk of treatment complications, to improve your comfort/healing and to help achieve the best possible results from treatment.  

Please follow the aftercare advice for PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatment.  

-          The treated area of skin may feel slightly tender and appear red and swollen afterwards, appearances may be similar to mild sunburn. These effects will resolve naturally and should be much improved after 48 hours but may take longer to settle. You may experience so minor bruising which may take 1-2 weeks to resolve in some cases.

-          Cold compress can be helpful to aid resolution of swelling. Arnica cream can be helpful for bruising resolution.

-          If you experience any mild discomfort, you can take some simple over the counter pain killers such as paracetamol.

-          You may experience localised tenderness, swelling or bruising from where your blood sample was taken. Bruising may take up to 2 weeks to fully resolve.

-          Use a mild cleanser with tepid water to clean your face for 3 days after the treatment and gently dry the treated area. Keep your hands clean when touching your face.

-          Avoid any perfumes, fake tan or other harsh chemicals for 72 hours after treatment.

-          Avoid any makeup for 24 hours after treatment this can increase the risk of infection.

-          Avoid rubbing or picking the treated area.

-          Avoid skin exfoliation for 72 hours following treatment.

-          It is important to use regular moisturising cream around 2-3 times a day on the treated area. Use more regularly if you feel the skin dry or peeling.

-          Avoid any products that contain alpha hydroxy acids, retinol, and glycolic acid for at least 7 days after treatment.

-          Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, sun beds and exposure to heat for 72 hours after treatment. These can cause sweating which can irritate the delicate skin and slow down your ability to heal quickly.

-          Avoid swimming for 72 hours after treatment.

-          Avoid any excess alcohol or caffeine for 48 hours after treatment.

-          Wear SPF 30 or greater sunscreen for at least 2 weeks after treatment as skin will be more sensitive to sunlight afterwards.

-          Avoid any further cosmetic treatments e.g. Botox, or dermal filler for 2 weeks following treatment or ask your practitioner for advice.

-          Avoid any hair removal treatments such as waxing for 2 weeks after treatment or until the initial redness and swelling has resolved

.-          You must seek medical attention and contact your practitioner if you experience any signs or symptoms of infection after treatment. Infection can present itself as hot, red shiny skin, there may be pus formation and you may have a fever or feel generally unwell.

-          You must contact your practitioner as soon as possible if you notice any other unwanted side effects from the PRP treatment.

-          Contact your practitioner if you experience any localised side effects from the site that the blood sample was taken.

-          Your practitioner will advise when further treatment appointments are required.  

 

If you are advised to attend a follow up appointment, please do make every effort to attend them. You should do this even if you believe that the recovery process is going well, and you cannot see that there are any visible complications.