08 Mar Microneedling FAQs: How Often Should I Do Microneedling With PRP?
At E Med Spa in El Cajon, CA, we pride ourselves on staying abreast of the latest advances in aesthetic research and technology. PRP has been used for decades to treat sports injuries, but researchers have recently discovered several other uses for this natural substance. Today, we answer our most frequently asked questions about microneedling with PRP.
Microneedling With PRP FAQs
How Often Should I Get Microneedling With PRP?
Depending on your aesthetic goals, you may need between three and six sessions of microneedling with PRP. We strongly advise our clients to schedule these sessions four weeks apart.
How Is This Treatment Different From Regular Microneedling?
This treatment is different from microneedling in that it involves the use of PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to drastically speed up the time it takes you to see results and extend the duration of those results. We harvest PRP by drawing a bit of your blood and processing it in a centrifuge for several minutes. This rapid spinning separates the components of your blood.
Once the red and white blood cells are removed from the plasma, the plasma is combined with the microneedling treatment. Then you are injected with the PRP.
What Is This Treatment Used for?
This treatment is most commonly used to correct hyperpigmentation, scarring, age spots and wrinkles on the face. However, it may also be used to treat surgical scars, acne scars, trauma scars and stretch marks on other parts of the body, such as the back, chest, inner thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Sometimes it is used to treat stretch marks on the upper arms.
Who Is This Treatment for?
Because this treatment is non-invasive, it is right for virtually anyone who has skin concerns and wants dramatic results without surgery. However, we will review your medical history and current health during your initial consultation to ensure this is the ideal treatment for you. Please let us know if any of the following apply to you:
- Pregnancy
- Recent use of Accutane for acne
- Skin radiation in the past 12 months
- Facial eczema or rosacea
How Should I Prepare for Treatment?
During your initial consultation, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of how to prepare for your treatment. For instance, you must avoid excessive and unprotected exposure to UV rays for several weeks before your treatment. This includes both UV rays from sunlight and tanning beds. In the days leading up to treatment, drink half a gallon of water daily.
You may cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water before treatment. Other than that, come in with a bare face. We will remove any makeup or other skincare products before your treatment if you do not come in with a bare face.
What Can I Expect Before Treatment?
We strongly encourage our clients to arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled treatment time so we can ensure all of your paperwork is in order. Once we cleanse your skin, we will apply a topical anesthetic. It usually takes about half an hour to take effect.
What Can I Expect During the Microneedling Portion of Treatment?
Depending on the number of areas you are trying to treat and their size, you can expect the microneedling portion of your treatment to last around half an hour. During this time, we will use the only FDA-approved, medical-grade dermal roller, known as the SkinPen, to roll several tiny needles back and forth across your skin.
What Can I Expect After Treatment?
After your treatment is finished, we will apply a soothing serum to prevent any irritation or redness. After that, you are free to apply makeup and go on with your day.
What Can I Expect During Recovery?
Recovery from this treatment is completely different from recovery after an invasive procedure. You should cleanse and moisturize your face once or twice daily. If you want, you can apply a lightweight powder or foundation. Avoid alcohol-based exfoliation and skincare products. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Until your skin has healed completely, avoid activities that lead to sweating or overheating. Do not run, play basketball or lift extremely heavy weights. Avoid HIIT exercises for 72 hours after treatment.
When Can I Expect to See the Results of Treatment?
Remember, depending on your aesthetic goals, you may need three to six treatments spaced four weeks apart. Therefore, it may be six months before you see the final results of scar or stretch mark reduction. If your aesthetic goal is facial rejuvenation, it can take around two months (two treatments) to see your desired results.
The most important thing to remember regarding the results of your treatment is patience. Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy because it tells your body to produce new, strong collagen. This is a natural process, and it takes time.
Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today
Are you ready to take your skincare game to the next level? Do you think you could benefit from microneedling with PRP? If so, contact us today at E Med Spa in El Cajon, CA so we can help you plan for success.