Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an autologous regenerative therapy that involves the collection of the patient’s own blood, centrifugation to concentrate platelets, and re-injection or topical application of the platelet-rich fraction to targeted areas. PRP typically contains 3-5 times the baseline platelet concentration, yielding 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 platelets/μL.  This plasma contains high concentrations of growth factors and bioactive proteins that aid in tissue repair and regeneration.

PRP

Mechanism of Action

PRP works by delivering a supraphysiologic concentration of platelets directly to the treatment site. The alpha granules within platelets release growth factors that stimulate:

  • Collagen synthesis
  • Cellular proliferation and  differentiation
  • Neo-vascularisation
  • Stem cell recruitment
  • Reduction of inflammation and  stimulation of tissue repair

Key Growth Factors in PRP

  • Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)
  • Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β)
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
  • Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)
  • Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF)

Applications for Skin Rejuvenation

Indications:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scarring
  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Uneven skin tone and texture
  • Periorbital pigmentation and thinning

Clinical Benefits:

  • Enhanced skin tone and elasticity
  • Reduction in scarring and pore size
  • Natural collagen remodeling
  • Safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types
  • Minimal downtime 
  • low risk of adverse events

Treatment Methods:

  • Intradermal or subdermal injection
  • Topical application post-microneedling

Recommended Protocol:

  • Initial series of 3 treatments 4-6 wks apart
  • Maintenance Rx every 6-12 months
scalp PRP

Hair Restoration

Indications:

  • Androgenetic alopecia
  • Telogen effluvium
  • Hair thinning from stress or aging
  • Adjunctive therapy post-hair transplant

Mechanism in Hair Regrowth:

  • Prolongs anagen phase of the hair cycle
  • Improves follicular vascularity
  • Stimulates stem cells in dermal papilla
  • Increases hair thickness & density

Ideal Candidates:

  • Early-stage hair loss
  • Intact hair follicles

Recommended hair PRP protocol:

  • Monthly for 3 months and then every 3 months for 1 year (treatment on months 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12)

Clinical Advantages

  • Uses autologous material
  •  reducing risk of hypersensitivity
  • Minimally invasive with no surgical recovery time
  • Easily combined with microneedling and topical agents
  • Appropriate for use across all genders and skin types

Contraindications

  • Active infection or dermatologic disease in the treatment area
  • Platelet or clotting disorders
  • Ongoing anticoagulant or immunosuppressive therapy
  • Recent use of isotretinoin (within 6 months)
  • Pregnancy/ lactation
  • Current use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapy