PRP (platelet-rich plasma): what it is and use in aesthetics
Quick facts
- Definition
- Plasma from the patient's own blood, concentrated in platelets by centrifugation, used as an autologous product.
- How it is obtained
- Blood draw, centrifugation in a dedicated system and separation of the platelet-rich fraction.
- Use in aesthetics
- Combined with microneedling, intradermal injections and rejuvenation protocols, at the professional's discretion.
- Point of attention
- Protocols vary widely and the evidence is heterogeneous; it requires careful indication and clear consent.
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It is a product obtained from the patient's own blood: a small amount is drawn, centrifuged to separate the components, and the fraction with an increased concentration of platelets is used. Because the material comes from the patient, it is called autologous.
How is PRP prepared?
The process is simple in outline and requires rigorous aseptic technique:
- Venous blood draw into dedicated tubes.
- Centrifugation, which separates the blood into layers (red cells, plasma and the platelet fraction).
- Removal of the platelet-rich fraction, according to the system used.
- Application, usually right afterward, by injection or combined with another procedure.
Systems, spin speeds, times and final concentration vary between manufacturers and protocols. That is why two products called "PRP" can have very different compositions, and comparing results between them is difficult.
What does PRP do, in theory?
Platelets contain growth factors linked to tissue repair. The idea behind the aesthetic use is that, by releasing them into the skin, fibroblasts and neocollagenesis are stimulated, with a possible improvement in skin quality. This hypothesis underpins its use combined with microneedling and intradermal therapy.
It is important to keep expectations realistic. The effect is usually on skin quality, not on volume or repositioning. The literature on aesthetic indications is heterogeneous: protocols are not standardized and results vary from patient to patient.
| Feature | PRP | Hyaluronic acid filler |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | The patient's own blood | Manufactured product |
| Main goal | Biological stimulus, skin quality | Volume and contour replacement |
| Reversibility | No antidote; the effect is biological | Hyaluronidase dissolves the gel |
| Standardization | Low, varies with system and protocol | Higher, defined by the manufacturer |
What precautions apply?
The medical history must investigate coagulation disorders, use of anticoagulants, blood diseases, active infection and autoimmune conditions. Possible complications include pain, bruising, infection at the site and a response below expectations. Because it is a procedure involving the collection and preparation of biological material, the regulation of the service, the supplies and the professional who may perform it follow sanitary rules and those of the professional council in Brazil.
And planning?
PRP is rarely the central question in a facial harmonization consultation, but it comes up in skin quality plans. When the goal is to talk about volume and contour, the visual projection helps the patient understand the difference between treating the skin and replacing volume.
Also called: platelet-rich plasma, autologous plasma, PRP.
Frequently asked questions
Is PRP a filler?
No. It does not replace volume the way hyaluronic acid does. It is a biological product from the patient's own body, used with the intent of stimulating skin quality, and its effect is of a different nature.
Does PRP carry a risk of allergy?
Because it is autologous, the chance of rejection is low, but the procedure has risks: swelling, bruising, pain, infection and a result below expectations. Individual assessment is indispensable.