PRP & Microneedling

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and microneedling offer a safe, minimally invasive way to manage visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and enlarged pores. At Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine, naturopathic wellness doctor Stefani Hayes, ND, LAc, and the team regularly use PRP and microneedling to help people achieve vibrant, healthy-looking skin. Call the Portland, Oregon-based office to schedule an appointment or book one online today. 

What is PRP and microneedling?

Platelet-rich plasma and microneedling are two treatments often used to support healthy skin that can be combined for optimal results.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

PRP is a type of regenerative medicine that uses platelets and growth factors derived from your own blood. 

When the PRP solution is injected into specific areas, it may increase circulation to the treatment site and support your body’s natural healing process.

PRP is often used to treat sports injuries, like tendonitis or inflammation. However, it can also support skin health by boosting the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that keep the skin supple and plump. 

Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses a handheld device, such as a dermaroller or microneedling pen, to make small puncture wounds in your skin. Like PRP, these small puncture wounds trigger your body’s healing response, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin.

Together, PRP and microneedling can smooth your skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, scars, and other blemishes.

Who can benefit from PRP and microneedling?

The Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine team uses PRP and microneedling to address various age-related skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Loose, crepey skin
• Enlarged pores
• Mild scars
• Skin discoloration or uneven skin tone
• Stretch marks
• Scarring
• Thinning hair in men and women

PRP and microneedling don’t provide as noticeable results as cosmetic surgery. However, a series of treatments over several weeks or months can rejuvenate your skin, reduce scarring, and/or thicken your hair over time, without incisions, sutures, or a lengthy recovery. 

What happens during PRP and microneedling treatment?

PRP and microneedling are outpatient procedures that typically take between 90 minutes and two hours.

If the team determines you’re a candidate, your provider draws a blood sample and places it in a centrifuge, which isolates your platelets. Once that process is complete, your provider transfers the PRP solution to several syringes.

Next, they wash and apply a numbing cream to your face. Then, your provider moves the dermaroller or microneedling pen across the surface of your skin, creating controlled micro-injuries in your forehead, cheeks, and other targeted areas.

After that’s finished, your provider applies the PRP solution to your skin and carefully massages it into the microscopic wounds. The PRP solution triggers your body’s natural healing response, accelerating the production of collagen and elastin.

Some people experience noticeable skin changes after a single session, but the team typically recommends at least three or four treatments spaced several weeks apart for optimal results. 

Request a PRP and microneedling appointment at Seven Dragons Integrative Medicine. Call the office, or book a consultation online today.