A Comprehensive Guide to Microneedling PRP: Everything You Need to Know
Microneedling with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) has rapidly gained popularity as one of the most effective, minimally invasive treatments for skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, and even scar treatment.
This guide delves into the science behind microneedling PRP, its applications, and the innovative DP4 Pen technology that is revolutionizing the way we treat our clients in Windsor.
What is Microneedling PRP?
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT), is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to stimulate collagen production.
The treatment involves creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin using tiny needles, prompting the body to naturally heal itself by producing new collagen and elastin.
This process helps improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and diminish scars.
Today, microneedling is not only used for skin rejuvenation but also for treating hair loss, scars, and even stretch marks.
What is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is derived from a patient's own blood and contains a concentration of platelets that are rich in growth factors.
These growth factors play a crucial role in healing, cell regeneration, and collagen production.
In microneedling PRP, that platelet-rich plasma is then applied during microneedling to enhance the healing process and maximize results.
Combining Microneedling with PRP
The synergy between microneedling and PRP delivers better results.
While microneedling alone can trigger collagen production, adding PRP accelerates the healing process and boosts skin and hair regeneration.
The micro-injuries created during microneedling allow the PRP to penetrate deeper into the skin, providing more effective and lasting outcomes.
How Microneedling PRP Works
The Microneedling Process
During a microneedling session, a device with tiny needles is used on your skin.
At Revery Medical Aesthetics, in Windsor, Ontario, we use the DP4 pen to deliver the best results for you.
The body responds by increasing collagen and elastin production, which helps rejuvenate the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and improving overall texture.
The PRP Process
To obtain PRP, a blood sample is drawn from the patient, usually from the arm.
The blood is then placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from the red blood cells.
The PRP, rich in growth factors, is extracted and applied either topically during microneedling or injected into targeted areas.
Role of Collagen Stimulation in Microneedling PRP
Collagen is the foundation of healthy skin, providing structure and elasticity.
As we age, collagen production naturally decreases, leading to sagging skin, wrinkles, and a loss of volume.
Microneedling with PRP directly stimulates the production of new collagen, improving the skin’s firmness, reducing wrinkles, and evening out skin tone.
Benefits of Microneedling PRP for Different Conditions
Microneedling PRP for Skin Rejuvenation
One of the primary uses of microneedling PRP is skin rejuvenation. It effectively treats fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and acne scars.
The treatment can also improve overall skin tone and texture, leaving patients with smoother, firmer skin.
PRP’s growth factors simply enhance the body’s natural healing process, allowing for quicker recovery and more dramatic results.
Microneedling PRP for Hair Restoration
Microneedling PRP is also a promising solution for hair loss, particularly for androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness).
Coupled with PRP, they stimulate hair follicles, promoting hair growth and strengthening the hair shaft.
This treatment is ideal for patients who are in the early stages of hair thinning or who simply want to thicken existing hair.
Individuals with severe hair loss won’t respond as effectively to microneedling PRP and might need to explore other treatments like hair transplants.
Microneedling PRP for Treating Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars
Microneedling PRP has shown effectiveness in reducing the appearance of hypertrophic and keloid scars, which often result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process.
The controlled injuries created by microneedling break down scar tissue, while PRP encourages smoother and more even skin regeneration.
Microneedling vs. Other Treatments for Keloid Scars
Compared to other treatments like corticosteroid injections or laser therapy, microneedling PRP is less invasive, has fewer side effects, and requires less downtime.
It is a gentler approach for patients seeking long-term improvements in their scars’ appearance.
Microneedling PRP for Stretch Marks
Microneedling PRP can help minimize the appearance of stretch marks by promoting collagen production and healing in the affected areas.
Best Areas to Treat Stretch Marks
Stretch marks will generally appear on your:
Stomach
Hips
Thighs
Upper arms
Breasts
Buttocks
Lower back
Microneedling PRP can be customized to treat specific areas where stretch marks are more pronounced.
Microneedling PRP for Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin due to excess melanin production, often caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or simple inflammation.
Microneedling with PRP helps break up pigment and stimulates cell turnover, leading to a more even complexion, using the healing properties of PRP to accelerate the reduction of dark spots and discoloration.
Microneedling with the DP4 Pen
What is the DP4 Pen?
The DP4 Pen is one of the latest advancements in microneedling technology, being the first fully digitalized microneedling device, using a handheld system with ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin.
This device, developed by Dermapen, offers more precision, speed, and safety compared to traditional microneedling devices.
Key Features of the DP4 Pen
1. Advanced Needle Technology
The DP4 Pen features 16 micro-needles that can penetrate the skin at adjustable depths, allowing for more customized treatments.
These needles are designed to be ultra-thin and sharp, reducing discomfort and minimizing trauma to the skin.
2. Increased Precision
The DP4 Pen ensures consistent needle penetration, making it ideal for treating delicate areas such as around the eyes, nose, and lips.
3. Enhanced Safety
With automatic calibration technology, the DP4 Pen reduces the risk of operator error and ensures that each treatment is safe and effective.
The device also features a disposable needle cartridge, preventing cross-contamination between patients.
4. Faster Treatments
The DP4 Pen works at a high speed, completing treatments more quickly than traditional manual microneedling tools.
This reduces the duration of treatment sessions while still delivering excellent results.
5. Customizable Treatments
The DP4 Pen is not just limited to PRP, we can use hyaluronic acid and exosomes to tailor the treatment to every patient’s unique needs.
How the DP4 Pen Enhances Microneedling with PRP
The DP4 Pen's precision and efficiency complement the PRP process by ensuring even coverage of the PRP into the skin.
The adjustable needle depth allows practitioners to tailor the treatment based on the patient’s skin type, the condition being treated, and the desired outcome.
This combination of technology and PRP accelerates healing and optimizes results for skin rejuvenation and hair restoration
Preparing for Microneedling PRP
Consultation and Initial Evaluation
Before undergoing microneedling PRP, it’s essential to have a consultation with a qualified provider.
During this evaluation, the provider will assess your skin type, hair loss pattern, or scar condition, and discuss your goals to make microneedling PRP as effective as possible.
Your provider will discuss your medical history, to discover any medical conditions or medications that might affect the procedure.
Pre-Treatment Guidelines
In the days leading up to your treatment, you may be advised to avoid sun exposure, alcohol, and certain medications like blood thinners, which can increase the risk of bruising.
Staying hydrated and maintaining a good skincare routine is also recommended.
Medical Conditions and Contraindications
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for microneedling PRP.
Individuals with active infections, skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, or blood disorders that affect healing should avoid the procedure.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor before considering treatment.
The Microneedling PRP Procedure
What Happens During the Treatment Session?
During a microneedling PRP session, the skin is first cleansed, and a topical numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort.
The provider then applies the PRP and uses the DP4 Pen to create micro-injuries, where the PRP penetrates deeply into the skin to enhance healing and collagen production.
Local Anesthesia and Pain Management
While the procedure is generally well-tolerated, a numbing cream is often applied to ensure comfort.
Patients may feel slight pressure or vibration during the treatment, but significant pain is rare.
PRP Application and Microneedling Depth
Depending on the area being treated, the depth of the needles can be adjusted.
For fine lines, a shallower penetration is used, while deeper scars or areas of hair loss may require more aggressive needle depths to stimulate collagen production and encourage hair follicle growth.
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery
Immediate Aftercare
Following the procedure, the skin may appear red and slightly swollen, similar to a mild sunburn.
It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure, harsh skincare products, and heavy makeup during the first few days of recovery.
Applying a gentle moisturizer and using a mild cleanser will help soothe the skin.
Redness, Swelling, and Expected Side Effects
Redness and minor swelling are common immediately after the treatment but usually subside within 24 to 48 hours.
Some patients may experience mild bruising as the skin begins to heal.
Long-Term Skin and Hair Care
To maintain the results of microneedling PRP, it’s essential to follow a consistent skincare regimen.
Using sunscreen, keeping the skin hydrated, and scheduling follow-up treatments will help prolong the effects of the procedure.
For hair restoration, multiple sessions are necessary to achieve optimal results.
Expected Results from Microneedling PRP
Patients start to see improvements in their skin or hair within two to four weeks after treatment, with continuous improvement over the next few months as collagen production increases.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Results
In the short term, microneedling PRP provides an immediate glow and a smoother skin texture.
Long-term results include less wrinkles, reduced scar, and, for hair restoration, thicker, fuller hair.
Is Microneedling PRP Right for You?
Microneedling PRP offers a versatile, minimally invasive solution for a wide range of skin and hair concerns.
With the DP4 Pen, patients can enjoy precise, safe, and effective treatments that deliver lasting results.
Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate your skin, restore thinning hair, or improve scars, microneedling PRP may be the ideal treatment to achieve your aesthetic goals.
If you’re considering getting microneedling PRP in Windsor, Ontario, schedule a FREE consultation and Dr. Bryce Leontowicz or another professional will determine if microneedling PRP is the right treatment for you.
