SkinPen by Bellus Medical is the first Microneedling device in the world FDA approved to treat acne scars for ages 22 and up. With as few as 3 non-invasive and affordable treatments spaced 4 weeks apart, you can improve the appearance of acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, overall skin texture and minimize pore size. When combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), the treatment is a true front-runner in skin quality transformation. There is little downtime and the procedure is safe for all skin types dark to light.
What is Microneedling?
When Microneedling, we use the SkinPen device to create controlled micro-injuries (100s to 1000s of microscopic channels through the top layer of the skin into the lower dermis layer) to stimulate the body’s natural wound healing process while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. Similar to sticking a finger into a bowl of jelly, the area that has been disturbed is affected but the surrounding jelly remains intact. As the skin progresses through the wound healing process, there is an increase in collagen and elastin production.
What is Platelet-Rich-Plasma?
Platelet-rich-plasma is the liquid portion of whole blood containing an abundance of proteins including growth factors and cytokines necessary for the body’s natural healing process. When there is an injury to the skin, platelets swarm to the area creating a blood clot and begin the wound healing process. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses an individual’s own healing system to rejuvenate and improve the quality of their skin.
PRP treatments involve collecting your blood, spinning it in a centrifuge, and separating out the concentrated platelet rich portion of plasma. The collected PRP is then applied after Microneedling to the freshly injured skin providing it with the growth factors needed to stimulate skin rejuvenation and increase the number of reparative cells your skin produces.
Should I get Microneedling and should I add PRP to my treatment?
The addition of PRP to your Microneedling treatment has been shown to amplify results and reduce recovery time. When PRP is used in conjunction with Microneedling, the tiny perforations created during the treatment allow a passageway for the body’s important proteins to access the deepest layers of the skin. This stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin cells to restore your youthful glow. The increased collagen production as a result of this treatment combination is essential for skin renewal and leads to
- Improved skin elasticity
- Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
- Decreased pore size and visibility
- Remodeling of scar tissue
- Firming and tightening of sagging skin
- Plump, youthful skin
What should I expect during my treatment?
An average appointment time for Microneedling with PRP is 60-90 minutes to allow time for the blood draw, PRP extraction and topical numbing. However, the procedure itself lasts less than 20 minutes. To achieve optimal results, we recommend at least a series of three treatments separated at one month intervals. For acne scars, patients often need at least six treatments.
Following the treatment, your skin will appear slightly pink to red, similar to a mild to moderate sunburn. The most common treatment responses include dryness, tightness, itching, and tenderness, while all self-resolve without further complications. After 18-24 hours, the micro-injuries close completely and you are safe to return to normal activities. However, the initial first 24 hours are critical. It is important to only use certain products approved by your provider. We recommend Vitamin C serum and H.A. Intensifier to accentuate your results. You also must avoid exercise, makeup, scrubbing and harsh products containing retinol or alpha/beta hydroxy acids for 18-24 hours. Downtime is very minimal, and redness should resolve within 1-2 days.
By initiating the body’s natural wound healing process, tissue remodeling continues for up to one year. Therefore, it is ESSENTIAL to be consistent with at home topical products in order to take advantage of your skin’s transformation and enhance remodeling.
Contact NOVA Plastic Surgery and Dermatology at 703-215-9152 to schedule your next” PRP Facial.” We look forward to helping you achieve your skincare goals.
