PRP therapy — Platelet-Rich Plasma — has two well-established applications in dermatology: scalp injection for hair loss and facial injection for skin rejuvenation. While the preparation method is the same, the application technique, treatment goals, and patient profiles differ significantly. This post focuses on facial PRP — what it achieves, how it is delivered, and who benefits most.

How Facial PRP Works

When PRP is injected into the dermis of the face, the growth factors released by the platelets — PDGF, EGF, VEGF, TGF-beta — stimulate fibroblast activity, increasing collagen and elastin synthesis. This produces a gradual improvement in skin quality, texture, and firmness over the weeks following treatment as the new collagen is laid down. PRP also has angiogenic effects — it promotes new blood vessel formation — which improves skin vascularity and contributes to the improved glow and colour that patients notice after treatment.

What Facial PRP Treats

Facial PRP is most effective for: skin quality and texture improvement, fine lines and crepey skin (particularly around the eyes and neck), mild skin laxity in patients not yet requiring volumetric correction, and as an adjunct to microneedling (PRP applied topically immediately after microneedling enhances collagen stimulation through the channels created by the needles). It is not appropriate as a standalone treatment for significant volume loss, deep wrinkles, or structural concerns — those require fillers or biostimulators.

The Procedure

Blood is drawn (10-20ml for facial treatment), centrifuged, and the PRP layer is separated. Under topical anaesthesia, the PRP is injected intradermally across the treatment area using a fine needle or applied topically over a microneedled surface. The procedure takes 45-60 minutes in total. Post-treatment redness and mild swelling resolve within 24-48 hours. A course of 3 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart is standard, with maintenance every 6-12 months. Results build progressively over 2-3 months after completing the course.

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— Dr. Nishita Ranka | Consultant Dermatologist | Dr. Nishita’s Clinic for Skin, Hair & Aesthetics, Hyderabad