PRP is the application of platelet rich plasma, prepared from the person's own blood, to the skin or scalp. A small blood sample is taken, separated into its components in a device called a centrifuge, and the platelet rich portion of the plasma is delivered to the target area. That it involves no product from outside the body is what sets it apart from other mesotherapy treatments. At his clinic in Nişantaşı, İstanbul, Dr. Levent Ünal plans PRP according to what the examination shows.
What PRP addresses
Platelets are the cells involved in blood clotting, and they carry growth factors that play a part in tissue repair processes. In PRP the aim is to concentrate that component and deliver it where it is needed. In the skin the target is tissue quality and vitality; on the scalp it is support for the tissue around the follicles. The treatment adds no volume and has nothing to do with muscle movement.
Which areas and situations it covers
- Face: dullness, moisture loss and a general need for vitality in the skin texture.
- Neck and decolletage: support aimed at skin quality.
- Scalp: as part of a physician led plan where there is shedding or reduced density.
- Back of the hands: dryness and a need for tissue support.
- Before and after a hair transplant, where it is considered appropriate.
Who it suits
It is considered for people looking for support in skin vitality or hair shedding, whose general health allows it and whose expectations are realistic. A blood count and any necessary tests are reviewed beforehand.
Situations that need closer assessment include pregnancy and breastfeeding, blood disorders affecting platelet number or function, bleeding disorders and the use of blood thinning medication, active infection, poorly controlled diabetes, ongoing oncology treatment, and a skin infection in the treatment area. In these circumstances the treatment may not be appropriate. Suitability is decided by a medical assessment.
How a session goes
- Examination: the area to be treated and expectations are discussed, and the medical history and any necessary blood tests are reviewed.
- Blood draw: a small sample is taken from the arm. This step is no different from a routine blood draw.
- Separation: the sample is processed in a centrifuge to obtain platelet rich plasma.
- Preparation: the area is cleaned and, if needed, a topical anaesthetic cream is applied and left to work.
- Application: the prepared plasma is distributed to the target area with fine needles.
- Review: aftercare is explained and the timing of the next session is planned.
The procedure is carried out in an outpatient setting. Everything from the blood draw to the application is completed within the same appointment.
Onset and duration of the effect
The effect is gradual and is assessed across the course. In the skin, change usually starts to be readable after a few sessions; on the scalp, the hair growth cycle means a longer period of follow up is needed. The outcome depends on the person, the area, age and any underlying causes. Results vary from person to person, and no outcome can be promised in advance.
Aftercare and what to watch for
- Avoid heavy make up on the first day.
- Postpone sauna, steam rooms, sunbeds and hard exercise for a few days.
- If it was applied to the scalp, do not wash your hair on the first day.
- Do not rub the area and avoid harsh exfoliation.
- Keep pressure on the cotton wool at the blood draw site for a few minutes.
Mild redness, short lived tenderness and occasionally small bruises can be seen afterwards. These generally settle in a short time.
Points that are often confused
PRP is often confused with stem cell treatment. It is not a stem cell therapy; it is the application of a plasma component separated from the person's own blood. Nor is it a filler, and it adds no volume.
Another misconception is that because your own blood is used, it can be applied in any circumstance. The content being your own does not remove the need for a suitability assessment. In certain blood disorders and specific medical situations the treatment may not be appropriate. Finally, a marked change should not be expected from one session; PRP is planned as a course spread over intervals.