Why So Many Patients Are Combining Microneedling and PRP Treatments
Microneedling and PRP treatments have become the go-to cosmetic procedure for stars like Jennifer Aniston, Angelina Jolie, and Kim Kardashian, and now these treatments are making their way to more medspas for people seeking skin rejuvenation and a more youthful look. As one of the most powerful non-surgical beauty procedures out there, it’s no wonder people are lining up for this combined treatment.
What is Microneedling?
Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling is a minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure that creates tiny punctures in the skin using thin, sterilized needles that create micro-injuries, introducing the skin’s natural healing process that leads to increased collagen and elastin production.
Common Benefits of Microneedling
Microneedling triggers a powerful healing response in the skin, which can target any skin concerns, including aging factors or sun exposure. Benefits include:
- A reduced appearance of acne scars, blackheads, fine lines, and wrinkles
- A tightening of large pores
- Enhanced product absorption
- Improved skin texture and skin tone
- Enhanced collagen production
- Reduced appearance of stretch marks
- Diminished sun damage
- Reduced appearance of age spots and sun spots
What is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy?
PRP therapy is a regenerative facial rejuvenation treatment that uses your body’s own healing powers to improve your skin. Taking a small blood sample, a dermatologist will then spin your blood in a centrifuge to separate platelets, which are rich in growth factors and tissue repair properties, from the rest of the blood. Finally, that platelet-rich plasma is injected into the microneedled area.
Common Benefits of PRP Therapy
Using your own blood platelets as a skin solution has a myriad of benefits, including:
- Reduced wrinkles and fine lines
- Enhanced collagen production
- Acne scar reduction
- Accelerated healing from any scars or skin damage
- Reduced inflammation
- Skin rejuvenation to improve skin texture or tone
- Enhanced elastin production
Why Clients Are Choosing to Combine Microneedling
and PRP
While each treatment alone is incredibly beneficial, combining the two makes for much more powerful results. Those with skin damage, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, or sun damage would greatly benefit from this winning combo.
According to a 2016 study, microneedling combined with PRP improved acne scars by about 62 percent, whereas without the PRP treatment, that percentage went down to 46 percent from microneedling alone. The addition of microneedling with PRP can help improve the absorption of PRP into the skin as the micro punctures allow for a much deeper, penetrative effect. The two turbocharge collagen and elastin production much more together than on their own. Due to the growth factors and healing effects of PRP, the combo also significantly reduces side effects and aftercare time following the session.
The Pros and Cons of Bundling Microneedling with PRP
Combining microneedling with PRP comes with a slew of benefits. Learn the pros and cons to see if it’s the right treatment for you.
Pros
- More powerful results: By combining two skin treatments into one, you’ll experience more collagen and elastin production, as well as enhanced skin rejuvenation and longer-lasting effects for your skin conditions.
- Save time: By combining two treatments into one, you’ll save time (and perhaps, money), on other treatments or skin care products you’d need to get the results you’ll see from combining microneedling and PRP.
- Quicker recovery: Because of the healing properties of PRP, many individuals will see a very quick recovery, typically with just some redness for 24 hours, so they can return to work after their appointment.
Cons
- Not necessary for everyone: It’s important to talk to your dermatologist to assess your skin’s specific needs. PRP and microneedling may not be for everyone, or it may not be necessary.
- Temporary side effects: Although the treatment is non-invasive and quick, some may experience uncomfortable side effects, such as swelling, redness, bruises, and inflammation. However, this typically clears up within one week.
Understanding What This Combination Can Do For Your Skin
PRP and microneedling by themselves have shown powerful benefits. However, the two combined have significant benefits. Learn what this effective treatment can do for your skin.
Skin Rejuvenation
The growth factors in PRP supercharge the collagen-building process that comes from microneedling, which rejuvenates your skin and erases signs of aging.
Scar Reduction
Whether it’s from the sun or a surgical scar, the winning combo of microneedling and PRP specifically targets acne scars, surgical scars, or sun spots, promoting a faster and more effective process of healing that you cannot get from other cosmetic treatments.
Improved Skin Tone and Texture
Microneedling creates micro-injuries that accelerate skin cell turnover, which sheds old, damaged cells to reveal healthier skin underneath. By stimulating collagen and elastin production from PRP and microneedling, you’ll notice smaller pores and a smoother, even appearance.
Anti-Aging
Both treatments on their own target fine lines and wrinkles, and the two together create a more powerful duo to target anti-aging concerns, creating new collagen and a smoother, refreshed look that the dermatology world is enamored by.
Who is a Good Candidate For a Combined Treatment?
Those who have aging concerns, acne scars, an uneven skin tone, large pores, or those who want a firmer, more youthful face and neck are all great candidates. With powerful results and little downtime, there’s a reason this combined treatment is gaining popularity.
Those who have open wounds, active acne (not just scars), those with blood clotting disorders, or diagnosed autoimmune conditions may not be the best fit, and it’s best to talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist before booking an appointment.
Schedule Your Treatments at Skin Savvy Aesthetics Today
If you’re ready to consult with our team of experts about getting a combined microneedling and PRP treatment, our medical team here at Skin Savvy Aesthetics in Scottsdale, Arizona is ready to help you achieve your goals. We provide consultations to discuss your medical history and your aesthetic desires to help you achieve the results you’re looking for. Book your consultation today.