The abbreviation PRP stands for “Platelet Rich Plasma.” In Turkish, it translates to Trombosit Yönünden Zenginleştirilmiş Kan Plazması. PRP, used in various medical fields, has become a commonly utilized technique in aesthetic dermatology, cosmetology, orthopedics, and dental surgery, primarily for tissue regeneration. In aesthetic dermatology, PRP is applied for the treatment of various skin and hair conditions and for skin rejuvenation. Since it is performed using plasma derived from the patient’s own blood, it is notable for its safety and reliability, with no risk of allergic reactions or side effects. Unlike many other aesthetic treatments, PRP originated in the East and later spread to the West. It was first developed and applied after research in Japan, followed by implementations in Spain and the United States.
How is PRP Obtained and Applied?
On average, human blood contains 190,000 to 210,000 platelets per millimeter. PRP is the platelet-rich plasma obtained by isolating other blood components (which give blood its red color) through a process called centrifugation. The PRP treatment involves the re-injection of this serum into the patient using various techniques. For this treatment, the patient’s blood is drawn into a specially prepared tube. After centrifugation, platelet-rich plasma is obtained. This plasma is then injected back into the patient’s desired area under the skin. The procedure can be made more effective by combining the solution with thrombin (a gel-like material derived from the serum) or hyaluronic acid. PRP can be applied in various forms, such as local injections, mesotherapy, dermotherapy, or masks.
What Skin Problems Can PRP Solve?
This method involves no foreign substances and uses the patient’s own cells, making it a risk-free application in terms of allergic reactions.
The treatment can be applied for:
- Wrinkles
- Fine and deep lines
- Skin blemishes
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Dull and lifeless skin tone
- Excessively oily skin
- Dryness, dullness, and flakiness
- Loss of collagen and elastin
- Loss of skin tightness and elasticity
What Hair Problems Can PRP Solve?
- Controls hair loss
- Reduces hair breakage and shedding
- Delays hair splitting
- Promotes healthier hair growth
- PRP makes hair more resistant to external damage
- Treats dullness and lack of volume in the hair
How Does PRP Rejuvenate the Skin?
PRP rejuvenates the skin by stimulating collagen and elastin production within the skin layers. The platelet-rich solution promotes cell renewal and regulates the skin’s metabolic functions, providing a refreshed and hydrated appearance.
Where Can PRP Be Applied?
PRP can be applied to the following areas to solve the aforementioned problems:
- Face
- Neck
- Décolleté
- Scalp
- Beard and mustache areas
When Does PRP Take Effect?
PRP begins to show effects immediately after application, leading to noticeable positive changes in overall skin health. These positive effects increase with subsequent sessions, reaching their peak between 2 to 4 months.
How Long Do the Effects of PRP Last?
The visible rejuvenation effects of PRP can last 8 to 12 months, depending on the individual’s skin structure. It’s important to consider the natural aging process of the skin. The effects of PRP do not completely disappear; however, the skin’s aging process continues naturally.
The effects discussed here refer to PRP’s role in skin rejuvenation. For treatments like scar and acne scar reduction, when combined with other treatments, PRP can have a permanent effect. Similarly, PRP’s effects in treating stretch marks are permanent.
Can PRP’s Effects Be Enhanced or Prolonged?
Yes, there are small but effective measures that can be taken:
- Using firming, moisturizing, and anti-aging creams
- Taking good care of the skin and using quality skincare products recommended by your doctor
How Often Should PRP Treatment Be Repeated?
For skin rejuvenation purposes, PRP is recommended to be repeated annually. Like many other skin rejuvenation procedures, repeated sessions will enhance its effects and contribute to maintaining the health and quality of the skin, while also serving as a preventive measure against future skin problems.
Is PRP a Stem Cell Treatment?
There is a misconception, largely due to media portrayals, that PRP is a stem cell treatment. However, PRP is not a stem cell treatment. The fact that PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood has led to a misleading advertising perception. Stem cell therapies are performed using adult progenitor stem cells, known as multipotent stem cells, which can differentiate into different types of cells. The stem cells used in medical treatments are not embryonic stem cells. While embryonic stem cells have the ability to differentiate into all types of cells in the body, the progenitor stem cells used in medical treatments can only differentiate into certain types of tissue cells. These progenitor stem cells are responsible for the body’s regeneration during injury. While these stem cells were traditionally obtained only from bone marrow, they can now also be sourced from fat tissue. PRP, as previously mentioned, is platelet-rich plasma derived from blood, and it has no relationship with or resemblance to stem cells. Therefore, PRP is not a stem cell treatment.
Does PRP Have Any Side Effects?
When applied by specialized doctors following the correct procedures, PRP is known to have no side effects. Since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, there is no risk of allergic reactions. Mild redness and bruising at the injection site are normal after the procedure.
Who Should Not Undergo PRP?
Before undergoing PRP, your doctor will conduct the necessary tests and assessments to determine your suitability. In general, PRP treatment is not recommended in the following cases:
- People with blood clotting disorders
- Individuals taking blood thinners
- People with liver diseases
When Can One Resume Normal Activities After PRP Treatment?
PRP is considered a “lunchtime procedure,” meaning you can immediately return to your normal life after the treatment.
What Factors Affect PRP Costs?
Several factors can influence the cost of PRP treatment. Thus, it is important to first undergo a doctor’s evaluation and determine the treatment details. Factors such as the area to be treated, the general procedure, and the amount of PRP applied can affect the price. Additionally, the price may vary based on the clinic, the doctor’s pricing policy, and even the city where the clinic is located.
