Vampire Facial-PRP

Traditional microneedling is used to treat everything from age spots and wrinkles to (acne) scarring and certain forms of hyperpigmentation. PRP may boost these effects and help you achieve your desired results faster.

Although microneedling can be used to treat scars and stretch marks on other areas of the body, most studies with PRP and scars seem to be focused on treatment of the face.

The term vampire facial is typically used to refer to microneedling with PRP used topically, afterward.

Most patients are good candidates for this type of the procedure.

Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your treatment. This may include:

• avoiding unprotected and excessive sun exposure several weeks before your appointment
• drinking lots of water in the days before your appointment
• arranging a ride home from your appointment
• arriving with a bare face (you may cleanse that morning, but you should avoid wearing makeup or moisturizer)

Microneedling with PRP is a quick process compared to other cosmetic procedures. Typical treatment time is 60-75 minutes.

Arrive at your doctor’s office at least 15 minutes before your appointment. This will give you time to finish up any last-minute paperwork or payments.

When you’re ready, your nurse or doctor may give you a gown to change into. After cleansing your skin, your doctor will apply a topical anesthetic (a numbing cream). This will need to set for at least 30 minutes before microneedling begins.

The actual procedure involves two steps. The microneedling portion lasts about 30 minutes, depending on the areas treated. During this time your doctor will roll a professional-grade derma roller or FDA-approved device on the desired areas on your face.

A syringe of blood will be drawn, usually from your arm, while your face is numbing. The blood is then put into a centrifuge, which separates the PRP from other components of the blood.

The PRP solution is then massaged into the treatment area, usually during microneedling. The microneedling treatment creates small controlled micropunctures in the skin, allowing for penetration of the PRP.

Once the procedure is finished, your doctor may apply a serum or balm to help soothe any redness and irritation. You may also have the option to put on makeup to camouflage any temporary side effects. Unless an adverse reaction occurs, you’re free to go home at this point.

Bruises and inflammation, including swelling and redness, are the most common side effects. They typically appear immediately after the procedure and clear within four to six days.

You’ll also want to avoid sun exposure and harsh skin treatments during this time. It’s important that you don’t rub or pick at your face. Sun protection is also very important.

The good news is that PRP contains your own blood, so there’s little chance of cross-contamination or infection. Rare complications include infection and scarring.

You’ll also want to touch base with your doctor if any unusual side effects develop post-treatment. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop excessive bleeding, swelling, or signs of an infection.

Recovery for this procedure is relatively minimal. You can go back to school or work the next day if you wish.

There may still be some redness and other signs of minor irritation, but you’ll want to avoid applying too many products to your skin.

Simply cleanse once a day and moisturize as needed. If desired, follow with a lightweight foundation or powder to minimize redness. Your doctor may also recommend or provide products to help your skin recover.

You’ll want to avoid alcohol-based products and exfoliants during the recovery stage. Proper sun protection is also very important.

Until your skin has completely healed, avoid rigorous activities that might cause excessive sweating and heat production. Examples include running, playing tennis, and heavy workouts.

Sweating may cause additional irritation, and rigorous activities may increase the risk of swelling or bruising. This usually should be avoided for at least 72 hours after your treatment.

Using PRP alongside traditional microneedling treatments may improve the scars on your face. It’ll likely take several treatments to see results.

After you finish your course of treatment, you may need to follow up with your doctor for potential maintenance, depending on the indication for your treatment.