Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment for Age Spots

WHAT CAUSES AGE SPOTS?

As a result of overexposure to the sun, the skin will attempt to protect itself by producing melanin in order to defend against harmful UV rays. Age spots may develop if the melanin production is focused in small spots, leading to the emergence of a section of black, grey or brown spots across the skin. Hyperpigmentation may also occur, which comes about as a result of the same melanin production, but it is focused on a small patch of skin as opposed to tiny spots, and is often of a darker colour. Apart from exposure to the sun, picking at the skin, hormonal changes or even selected medications may also cause the formation of both conditions.

WHAT IS PRP TREATMENT?

Also known as ‘Vampire’ or ‘Dracula’ therapy, this procedure is not nearly as drastic as it sounds. Platelet-rich plasma therapy involves blood being drawn from a patient’s body, similar to a regular blood test. The blood is then put into a machine that separates platelets, serum and blood cells; these are then re-injected into the part of the body that requires treatment.

Releasing growth factors, the platelets assist the body in mending itself by triggering the production of new tissue in skin cells, and collagen in the skin. This improves your skin tone as the fresh skin cells grow back in a healthy state, appearing more vibrant and smooth to the touch.

Typical treatment cycles recommended are about 2-3 treatments spaced 2 weeks apart, but this may vary depending on the individual, and your doctor will be on hand to advise you accordingly.

RESULTS AND RECOVERY AFTER PRP THERAPY

Results should be noticeable within 3 weeks of treatment, and your skin should be much firmer and smoother, with age spots having been reduced as well. Skin should gradually continue to improve over the following months, and the results can usually last for up to 18 months. However, top-up treatments are required for the skin to maintain its healthiness.

Minimal swelling and bruising may be experienced for up to a week after treatment, but this will subside. There is also almost no downtime associated with the treatment, and is much safer than other anti-aging methods as it is all natural.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment demonstration