The blood facial, also known as microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), has become a popular cosmetic treatment for skin rejuvenation. This innovative procedure combines the benefits of microneedling with the regenerative properties of PRP, a component derived from your own blood. This article delves into the science behind blood facials, their benefits, the procedure itself, and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
Introduction to Blood Facials
Blood facials harness the power of your body's own platelets to stimulate collagen and elastin production, promoting cell turnover and a more youthful appearance. This treatment involves extracting a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then reapplying it to your skin, typically in conjunction with microneedling.
What is a Blood Facial?
A blood facial is the combination of PRP and a microneedling treatment. Let's break down the components:
Microneedling
Microneedling is an effective treatment that can address various skin conditions, such as acne scars, undereye circles, and fine lines/wrinkles. It involves the use of tiny needles to create intentional micro-injuries on the skin's surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the body's natural healing response, triggering new tissue growth and collagen production in the treated area, which leads to facial rejuvenation. The microscopic wounds spur the production of collagen and the creation of new skin cells rich with human growth elements, which allow skin to heal and renew itself, creating younger, firmer, and more supple skin.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP refers to platelet-rich plasma, a natural component of your blood. Platelets are responsible for blood clotting and contain enzymes that are released after a clot develops. These enzymes draw stem cells to the area, facilitating tissue regeneration and repairing damage. PRP is a concentrate of platelet-rich plasma derived from the patient’s own blood. The key components of PRP include platelets, growth factors, and plasma. Platelets are small cell fragments that play a crucial role in healing by promoting cellular regeneration. Due to the high concentration of growth elements in PRP, its regenerative properties have been used to benefit other medical branches for decades. PRP has been used to increase wound healing from major surgeries such as facial surgery, cardiovascular surgery, and soft tissue ulcers. It is also commonly used to heal torn ligaments in athletes, as well as other conditions of the joints for many others.
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How Does a PRP Facial Work?
The PRP facial is typically a three-step process:
- Blood Draw: A small sample of your blood is taken, similar to a routine blood test.
- Plasma Extraction: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins the blood at high speed to separate the platelet-rich plasma from other blood components. During centrifugation, the heavier red blood cells sink to the bottom, while the lighter plasma and platelets rise to the top. This PRP is then carefully extracted and prepared for application to the skin. The separation process takes about 10 minutes. Improper separation can result in a lower platelet count, which can impede results.
- Microneedling & PRP Application: The PRP is applied topically to the skin, often in conjunction with microneedling. The microneedling device creates tiny micro-channels in the skin, which enhance the absorption of PRP and further stimulate collagen production. After the allotted time has passed, the microneedling procedure is then carried out using the PRP generated from the patient’s blood as a glide to help facilitate treatment as well as penetrate the PRP into the skin and dermis.
Benefits of Blood Facials
Blood facials offer a multitude of benefits for the skin, including:
Skin Rejuvenation
Platelet rich plasma facial treatment is known for its ability to promote skin rejuvenation. This procedure utilizes the body’s natural healing processes to stimulate cellular regeneration. PRP promotes collagen growth which reduces wrinkles, giving you a fresher, more youthful complexion-without the risks of synthetic fillers or invasive procedures.
Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
One of the primary benefits of platelet rich plasma facial treatments is their effectiveness in reducing signs of aging. Patients frequently notice an improvement in skin elasticity and firmness, making their skin look more youthful. Fine lines and wrinkles fade as collagen production increases.
Improved Skin Tone and Texture
Platelet rich plasma facials are also effective in improving skin tone and texture. The treatment can address issues like uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. By promoting better blood circulation and revitalizing skin cells, the facial treatment helps create a smoother, more even complexion. PRP helps brighten skin and reduce pigmentation issues. PRP is one of the best ways to improve skin texture and even out skin tone.
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Natural Approach
Another significant advantage of platelet rich plasma facial treatment is that it utilizes the body’s own resources. This natural approach appeals to many who prefer treatments without synthetic chemicals. Because PRP is unique to each patient due to being made from their own blood, this makes it a 100% natural option compared to other treatments such as dermal fillers. PRP on the other hand, is authentic since it is made directly from your own blood.
Long-Lasting Results
Lastly, platelet rich plasma facial treatment is known for producing long-lasting results. The effects of the treatment can continue to improve for months as collagen production increases. Follow-up treatments can help maintain the benefits, ensuring that the skin looks revitalized for an extended period.
Addressing Multiple Skin Layers
Many non-surgical treatments are only able to address one layer of skin at a time. The microneedling + PRP combination is notable in that it is able to address two layers of the skin simultaneously - both above and below.
Faster Recovery
While microneedling is already a non-invasive procedure without much downtime, the healing benefits of PRP speed up the recovery process even more. Collagen remodeling occurs at a faster pace, which not only reduces the amount of time of the normal swelling/redness after the procedure, but also allows the wounds from the microneedling to repair themselves in less time.
Acne Scar Reduction
Studies have shown results that PRP works especially well in regards to acne scars due the PRP’s healing process breaking up the older scar tissue and replacing it with a new restructuring of the collagen that is closer in construction to the skin’s natural appearance. Minimized acne scars and hyperpigmentation. If you suffer from acne scars, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, or stubborn dark spots, PRP facials could be transformative. PRP supports skin regeneration, helping to soften scars.
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Brighter Complexion and Enhanced Elastin
PRP treatments address the entire area of skin, and thus have a wider range of effect. Because of this, they are able to provide additional benefits such as brightening the complexion, evening out the skin tone, and adding more elastin.
Firmer and Smoother Skin
These all can result in firmer, smoother skin overall while still being able to target certain areas by filling out hollow cheeks and wrinkles. As collagen builds, skin becomes firmer and more youthful-looking.
Treatment of Delicate Areas
Due to it being fully natural, PRP is able to be used on certain areas with very thin skin such as the undereyes, eyelids, and certain regions around the neck.
Maintenance of Appearance
Due to it being able to treat both the outer and inner layers of skin, the Blood Facial is able to treat many conditions. Due to it being natural, a growing number of patients have been receiving this treatment at younger ages in order to maintain their appearance before the effects of wrinkles and sun damage start to set in and pile up over the years.
Enhanced Skin Hydration and Plumpness
Because PRP facials boost blood circulation, you might notice that your skin is better able to retain moisture and appears more plump and supple.
Increased Skin Radiance
PRP facials are known to provide a naturally radiant glow.
The Procedure: Step-by-Step
- Consultation: Before undergoing a blood facial, you'll have a consultation with a healthcare provider. They’ll ask about your health history to see if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. The doctor will assess your medical history and help determine the best approach for your skin. They will also examine your skin and talk about what you want to achieve from the procedure. Depending on what your goals are for your skin, Dr. Behroozan will be able to assist you in developing a thorough skin care plan that will help you get the most out of your Blood Facial’s results. This may include other services such as Botox, lasers, or other forms of medical skin care.
- Preparation: If you decide to go ahead with a PRP facelift, your provider may ask you to minimize your sun exposure and avoid tanning for several weeks before the procedure. Avoid blood thinners, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin and herbal supplements, for a week before the procedure. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the week before the procedure and arrive at your appointment with clean skin and no makeup. In addition, let your dermatologist know about any blood thinning medications or supplements you are taking beforehand.
- Anesthesia: At the start of your procedure, topical anesthetic will be applied to your face. This anesthetic will sit in your face for about 30-45 minutes. Prior to starting your treatment, topical anesthetic is applied to the face for numbing.
- Blood Draw: During this time, a blood draw will be performed from your arm. A small amount of blood will be drawn from your arm - typically 2-4 tablespoons. The clinician will withdraw a sample of the patient’s blood.
- PRP Preparation: After the blood is drawn, a centrifuge is used to separate the plasma from the red blood cells and generate the PRP. The blood sample is then placed in a centrifuge, which is a machine that spins the blood sample very quickly in order to separate the blood into its different components. Then, the now isolated, concentrated plasma is used in target areas.
- Microneedling: After the allotted time has passed, the microneedling procedure is then carried out using the PRP generated from the patient’s blood as a glide to help facilitate treatment as well as penetrate the PRP into the skin and dermis. At the start of the PRP facial, microchannels are created using micro-needling technology.
- Post-Treatment: After the microneedling has been completed, you will then receive aftercare instructions on how to care for your face during the recovery process. Dr. Behroozan also has medical grade moisturizer and sunscreen that are both free from active ingredients. These products are available for purchase at his office for your convenience. You can begin to use these products immediately after treatment.
What to Expect During and After the Treatment
During the procedure, you can still have a slight sensation of the microneedling; however, many patients report that this feeling is very tolerable, and not nearly as bad as what they were initially expecting. The sensation is usually associated with a needle prick and is tolerable. Some sections of the treated area may be a little more sensitive than others. Some occasional blood drippage can happen in some areas of the face, and is normal.
Immediately after your treatment is over, your face will have some slight redness; however, contrary to popular belief, your face will not be drenched in red blood at the end of the procedure. This is because the red blood cells are separated from the PRP, so that only the plasma, which is clearer in color, is applied to your face. The famous images you may have seen from celebrities where their faces are covered in red blood are due to the full blood sample with the red blood cells being applied to the face or when microneedling is performed without the use of PRP.
Slight swelling, bruising, inflammation, and redness are possible short term side effects, and should be expected. These side effects are similar to a mild sunburn, and generally wear off on their own within 2-3 days. Most patients return to their normal activities soon after. Recovery is generally painless, but minor post-treatment bruising may be expected following microneedling. Your skin may feel like you have a sunburn and mild bleeding is not unusual. The healing period depends on various factors, including your skin condition, the needle length, and the amount of pressure applied.
Aftercare and Recovery
For the first few days after treatment, moisturizer and sunscreen should be the only products that are applied to your face. Apart from these two products, the face needs to remain totally bare while the healing process is starting. No makeup should be worn, and any skin care routines you normally apply should be paused during this time. Since your skin will be very sensitive the next few days after the treatment, it is best to protect it from direct sun exposure, make-up, and excessive sweat.
After a few days have passed, you can gradually begin to apply makeup again. After about a week, makeup and skin products can gradually begin to be used again. Because the recovery process involves healing a wound, results from a Blood Facial will progress over the course of a month. Recovery won’t take longer than a week, but it is recommended to wear sunscreen for longer than that.
Sun exposure should be limited as much as possible, and sunscreen with SPF30 or more should always be worn. After your PRP therapy, care is essential for optimal results.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
For maximum results, it is highly recommended to have 3 treatments spaced out 1 month apart between each. For a vampire facial to be effective, patients usually need a series of treatments 4 to 6 weeks apart. After the initial series, maintenance sessions may be suggested every 6 to 12 months, depending on individual skin needs. The results are not permanent, so you will probably need additional maintenance procedures in the years to come.
Who is a Good Candidate for a PRP Facial?
If you want to reduce signs of aging, improve skin texture, or address acne scars, PRP might be perfect for you. Dr. Frieder recommends this treatment for individuals looking for a natural, less invasive way to rejuvenate their skin.
A vampire facial is an ideal treatment for patients who want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as for people who suffer from acne scars or struggle with age spots or hyperpigmentation.
Contraindications
A PRP facelift isn’t recommended if you:
- Have a blood condition that causes excessive bleeding or difficulty clotting.
- Have hepatitis C or HIV.
- Have skin cancer.
- Take a blood thinner.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have certain medical conditions this treatment may not be right for you. Individuals with blood disorders, platelet dysfunction conditions, hematologic cancers, or low hemoglobin/platelet counts should avoid PRP therapy. Additionally, those with active infections, blood cancers, or who are taking blood thinners are not ideal candidates, as these factors could pose potential risks and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Even though PRP is 100% natural and does not cause allergic reactions since it is your own personal blood, the use of blood means that it does carry the same risks as other blood-related procedures, such as blood donations, tattoos, and piercings.
Safety Considerations
Even though PRP is 100% natural and does not cause allergic reactions since it is your own personal blood, the use of blood means that it does carry the same risks as other blood-related procedures, such as blood donations, tattoos, and piercings.
Improperly sterilized equipment carries risk of contamination and transferral of diseases, including HIV and Hepatitis. In addition to this, the ordinary risks of improperly sanitized equipment also apply, such as infection.
Dr. Behroozan uses brand new disposable supplies with each Blood Facial that are used only during your own personal procedure. After your treatment is completed, these supplies are disposed of entirely, meaning that even the slightest chance of cross contamination is completely eliminated. This disposable equipment ensures that all items used were thoroughly sterilized, and that your Blood Facial is carried out safely.
Common Misconceptions
A very common belief is that the face will be covered in blood like the various celebrities who have had photos of their Blood Facials. Because the plasma is separated from the red blood cells, only the clear-colored PRP is injected - and thus, the face is not covered in blood at the end like many people believe.
Why Choose a Board-Certified Dermatologist?
The Blood Facial is technique sensitive. The PRP injections require precise angles to ensure that the needles uniformly penetrate the skin all over. In addition, the PRP needs to be injected in very specific areas on the face to ensure that it covers the greatest amount of area for great looking results. This requires a thorough understanding of the facial anatomy as well as your skin’s unique texture and condition. Even the very first step of separating the plasma from the red blood cells is a delicate process. Separation that is done improperly can contain a lower platelet count, which can impede results.
Other providers such as estheticians and medical spas do not have the same professional training and hands-on experience as a board certified-dermatologist, which can impede the longevity of your results. Dr. Even though PRP is 100% natural and does not cause allergic reactions since it is your own personal blood, the use of blood means that it does carry the same risks as other blood-related procedures, such as blood donations, tattoos, and piercings.
As with every dermatologic procedure - results depend on the skill and expertise4 of the person performing your vampire facial. Board-certified dermatologists have the most knowledge, experience, and training when performing cosmetic skin procedures. Dermatologists’ offices are medical facilities with high safety standards and strict blood-handling protocols.
When you see a dermatologist for a cosmetic treatment, you see a professional healthcare provider concerned with your health and safety, not only your physical appearance.
Cost of PRP Facials
Platelet rich plasma facial costs can vary depending on the provider and location. Factors that influence the price include the expertise of the practitioner and any additional services included in the treatment.