The science of skin rejuvenation continues to evolve. Just a decade ago, procedures involving lasers with EMF energy for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin was a new and promising technique. Nowadays, the use of your own blood for improving skin tone and texture is a new and exciting reality.
What is PRP?
The acronym PRP stands for platelet rich plasma. This is a mixture a medical professional prepares that is composed of plasma that has been enhanced with platelets. Medical research has shown that when plasma is enriched with platelets, it has a stronger healing effect on areas of the body it occupies. This is due to the naturally occurring substances in the platelets that have the power to stimulate the growth of cells.
The use of PRP for healing injuries of the body has been around since the 1970s and was first used in procedures like heart surgery. When the middle of the 1990s came along, it started to grow in popularity as a form of therapy for injuries like tennis elbow and other tendon injuries.
Why PRP Improves Skin Quality
Besides being proven to help with the healing of injuries, PRP has also been utilized in the fields of dentistry and reconstruction surgery. Recently, it has been used for wounds on the skin, dermatology and for improving skin tone and texture in cosmetic procedures.
When PRP solutions are injected into the skin, the body responds to this as if it is a minor injury. It then releases substances into the bloodstream that encourage the growth of new cells as well as collagen production. It’s collagen that is so vital for restoring a youthful appearance to aging and damaged skin. As we reach middle age, less collagen is produced by the body. This decline continues as we age.
Instead of just a cosmetic improvement, skin is literally rejuvenated with the PRP injection procedure. The results usually last for more than a year, if maintained properly.
The PRP Procedure
In 2009, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved two different methods for preparing the plasma mixture. Our medical experts fully comply with these regulations. The first part of the procedure involves drawing blood from the patient for the blood plasma preparation. Only a small amount will be drawn, and it only takes a few minutes.
As the PRP is being prepared by the specialist, the face of the patient is cleansed in order to prepare it for the treatment. When the PRP is ready, it is injected into the patient’s skin.
Since the patient’s own blood is used, there is almost no chance of bad side effects occurring. There is also no downtime necessary after the procedure. Patients can go about their daily routines immediately after leaving our office.
Learn More About PRP Treatment
To get all the facts about this incredible treatment, make an appointment at ProMD Health. For your convenience, we have offices in Annapolis, Arlington, and Baltimore. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.