Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) has become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments at medical spas in Toronto. And for a good reason! First popularized by Kim Kardashian West during her vampire facial, PRP has applications for a range of aesthetic procedures. These including facials, microneedling and hair loss treatments.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Any treatment involving Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is based on separating platelets from the client’s own blood. These are then injected into targeted areas of the face or body depending on the goal of the treatment.
How does a PRP treatment work?
We all have platelets in our blood. To obtain them, a registered nurse aesthetician draws a small amount of blood from the client’s arm, exactly like in a routine blood test. She then places the blood drawn into a centrifuge machine to separate the plasma rich in platelets from the white and red blood cells. This plasma is then re-injected into the target area. Only the platelet-rich portion of the blood goes into the treatment — hence the name of the procedure!
What are the benefits of PRP?
Platelet Rich Plasma is an effective solution for rejuvenating and hydrating your skin, smoothing out wrinkles, removing dark circles, minimizing the appearance of scars, including acne scars, boosting collagen, and more! It is also safe with no risk of an allergic reaction since your own blood is used in the treatment.
PRP recovery time and side effects
PRP is very safe and recovery times are minimal. You should expect some swelling and redness in the targeted areas post-treatment. Some bruising may also occur which may take up to several days to resolve.
What are vampire facials?
A vampire facial is just another name for platelet-rich plasma treatments. Sometimes, people refer to procedures that combine PRP with microneedling or microdermabrasion as “vampire facials”. In these cases, platelet-rich plasma is applied either via injection or topically as a skin mask. Microneedling that involves PRP may also sometimes include hyaluronic acid application for added benefits.