Microneedling is the placement of microscopic wounds into the skin with non-heated needles. This stimulates the activation of the wound healing response and release of growth factors, which contracts old collagen and stimulates increased collagen and elastin production. As a result, microneedling can be used to treat wrinkles and scars, including acne scars.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is the clear, yellow layer found in our blood. It is obtained by spinning blood in a centrifuge. PRP has a number of growth factors, including Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), which accelerates the wound healing response and stimulates collagen production.
Microneedling causes microscopic injuries into the epidermis and dermis. This initiates the wound healing response, leading to the contraction of old collagen and stimulation of increased collagen production. The wound healing response and recovery of microneedling is accelerated with the application of PRP before and after the microneedling treatment.
New Bloom Dermatology uses Rejuvapen NXT® for microneedling, which has nine different speed settings and adjustable depths, and Selphyl® Platelet Rich Fibrin Matrix.
Patients who are seeking treatment of wrinkles, especially on lower eyelids and around the mouth, and scars, including acne scars, are candidates for microneedling with PRP.
Microneedling with PRP should not be used in patients who are pregnant, have a history of keloids or hypertrophic scars, or who have taken accutane/isotretinoin within the past six months.
Patients are advised to arrive in the office 45 minutes before the procedure for topical numbing. They are also recommended to avoid alcohol, advil, alleve, aspirin, and fish oil 48 hours before the procedure to limit any possible bruising. Patients with a prior history of cold sores should inform the providers at New Bloom Dermatology, as anti-viral medication can be prescribed to prevent cold sore breakouts as a result of the procedure. Sun exposure should be avoided before and after the procedure is performed for at least four weeks.
After the topical numbing is removed and the face is cleansed, a layer of PRP is applied. Microneedling is then performed, which feels like pin pricks as the needles are applied into the skin. Areas with deeper scarring will have deeper treatment settings for optimal results. After the microneedling is completed, PRP is applied to the skin. There is swelling, redness, and pinpoint bleeding after the procedure.
Side effects of Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) include redness, swelling, bruising, discomfort, mild skin peeling, and pinpoint bleeding, which takes four to five days to resolve. Patients also may experience acne breakouts and are prescribed oral antibiotics for one week to prevent these breakouts.
Patients can ice the areas to help decrease the redness and swelling. They are also recommended to constantly moisturize the treatment areas to help the skin recover. Finally, patients are advised to avoid sun exposure for four weeks after treatment to avoid hyperpigmentation.
Patients are recommended to complete a minimum of three treatments, spaced out every four weeks. Full results are visible three to six months after the last treatment as a result of the wound healing response and collagen formation. Patients with deeper acne scars may require additional sessions.
Please contact the office at (212) 207-0078 or info@newbloomderm.com for single treatment and package pricing.
Microneedling with PRP does not involve heat when the wound healing response is initiated. As a result, there is decreased risk of hyperpigmentation and can be safely used in all skin types. It is ideal for patients who are seeking treatment of wrinkles and scars, including acne scars. Patients can also consider SmartXide DOT Fractionated CO2 laser for the same indications with possibly less treatment sessions. Patients with acne scars who cannot afford additional downtime may consider Sylfirm X RF microneedling or Excel V laser, specifically Genesis™ V. Patients with fine wrinkles who cannot afford the downtime can consider LaseMD™ or Clear and Brilliant® Touch Laser. Furthermore, patients with dynamic facial wrinkles as a result of muscle movement may consider neuromodulators such as Botox®, Daxxify®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®.
Before any treatments are scheduled, a cosmetic consultation is required to ensure that Microneedling with PRP is an appropriate treatment.