By now you’ve likely at least heard about Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments, which have gained popularity for their intrigue and effectiveness. Celebrities like Kobe Bryant, Angelina Jolie, Kim Kardashian West and the Real Housewives are known to be huge fans of this treatment that conjures up images of those mythical figures who never age. Celebrity or not, the truth is PRP isn’t a passing fad and facial rejuvenation isn’t the only benefitSo, what is Platelet-Rich Plasma? First of all, platelets are cells found in the bloodstream that allow blood to clot; leading to wound healing and tissue repair. They do this by releasing growth factors, and powerful enzymes that attract stem cells to the area of damage. The result is tissue regeneration through new cell growth and collagen production. Back in the 70’s scientists thought, “Why don’t we isolate all this natural power from the patient’s own blood and treat their concerns?” Thus, the birth of PRP therapy: by spinning the blood at a high speed, the platelets rise to the top (as they are lighter than the rest of the blood) allowing it to be easily removed. This PRP portion can then be injected back to the patient, without fear of adverse reaction, as it’s not a foreign substance.
PRP therapy was initially used in sports medicine to treat injuries, then in chronic medical conditions such as arthritis, and for the past couple of decades in skin conditions, such as acne scars, stretch marks, anti-aging and hair loss. Today there are hundreds of high quality level clinical studies showing that PRP therapy…bloody works!
To maximize the effects of PRP, we often perform it after a treatment like Clear and Brilliant, Fraxel, Endymed Intensif, or Permea. These create skin microchannels that serve as direct passages allowing PRP to access the deepest layers of the skin or scalp and quicken healing.
Whether you are seeking to refresh your face, remove acne scars / stretch marks, reduce your pores or are looking for a non-surgical solution to hair loss, the PRP procedure is the same. First, one of our technicians draws some blood, an amount of about 2 teaspoons. The blood is spun in a centrifuge for about 10 min to prepare the PRP. PRP will then be applied topically over the treatment, immediately after the laser/microneedling treatment. If you are using PRP alone, the provider will first apply a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort and then perform injections, every half inch, directly to your skin or scalp. From start to finish the procedure lasts around 30 min, and aside from temporary redness, there are generally no side effects. Most patients will see the best results after 3 treatments, one month apart. It takes around 30 days for new cells, vessels and collagen to regenerate, so you should start seeing revitalization, smoother skin, and/or healthier hair around that time frame.
In an interview with Allure Magazine, Dr. Sadick remarked about PRP therapy for hair loss: “The first result that patients usually note is decreased hair shedding, followed by early regrowth and increased length of hair. The general consensus is that receiving treatments every three to six months on a long-term basis are optimal for continuing to stimulate the growth factors and stem cells that are associated with regrowth and stopping hair fallout.” The treatments should be a part of a comprehensive plan created by your provider at Sadick Dermatology, with the final results being increased hair count, increased hair thickness, and increased hair growth!
Sadick Dermatology has been one of the pioneers in this breakthrough treatment and our expertise is unparalleled. If you’re in NYC and would like to learn more about the best PRP treatments, give our office a call at 212-772-7242.
