What is microneedling with PRP?

Microneedling with PRP is a cosmetic treatment that stimulates collagen production by rolling fine needles over the skin and applying platelets, which are one of the components of blood.

The addition of PRP from the blood may make microneedling more effective. The liquid in blood is plasma, while platelets are solid. Platelets help blood clot, so they are vital for healing wounds and injuries. PRP is plasma in which the concentration of platelets is higher than that of other components of the blood.

A practitioner will take a blood sample and then use a spinning tool called a centrifuge to separate the PRP from the rest of the blood.

PRP contains proteins, including growth factors and cytokines. These proteins help skin tissue repair itself.

First, a practitioner will use a microneedling tool to prick the skin, making tiny holes in the skin’s surface. They will then apply PRP to these tiny holes to encourage collagen production and cell reproduction.

Benefits

People may consider having microneedling with PRP if they want to treat certain marks or blemishes on the body or face for cosmetic reasons. Practitioners may use microneedling with PRP to treat:

• acne scars
• surgical scars
• wrinkles and fine lines
• hyperpigmentation
• sun damage
• large pores
• uneven skin texture

Recovery from microneedling is usually quick. People may experience some soreness and tenderness immediately after the treatment. The area may also have redness, and there may be some mild bruising, which usually clears within 4–5 days.

Other side effects can happen while the skin heals, including:

• oozing
• swelling
• milia, which are white papules in the skin
• a mild flare-up of acne

Taking acetaminophen can help relieve any discomfort or painful side effects.

Risks

Microneedling creates small holes in the surface of the skin. In rare cases, this can introduce bacteria into the skin and cause an infection. In some cases, it may cause cold sores from the herpes simplex virus.

PRP treatment is usually safe, however, because it uses the person’s own blood for the procedure. People should follow the aftercare instructions that their practitioner provides to reduce the risk of any complications.

If people experience any severe pain or side effects after treatment, they should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Microneedling with PRP may not be suitable during pregnancy or for people with certain conditions or other risk factors, including those who have:

• used or are using isotretinoin to treat acne
• active acne
• skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea
• a history of scarring or bruising easily
• a platelet or blood disorder
• had major surgery within the last 6 months
• HIV
• a chronic illness
• an infection on the face, such as herpes

Microneedling with PRP may be more costly than microneedling alone, and some people may have good results with just regular microneedling treatment.