Regeneration using your own platelets
PRP—platelet-rich plasma—is a regenerative treatment prepared from a small sample of your own blood. Your blood is processed in a specialist centrifuge to separate and concentrate the plasma containing platelets. This platelet-rich portion is then introduced into carefully selected areas of the skin, either by injection or alongside microneedling, depending on the treatment plan. Because PRP comes from your own blood, it is described as an autologous treatment.
Why are platelets important?
Platelets are usually associated with blood clotting, but they also play an important role in healing. When activated, platelets release signalling proteins and growth factors involved in:
- Fibroblast activity
- Collagen production
- New blood-vessel signalling
- Cell communication
- Extracellular-matrix remodelling
- Tissue repair
Fibroblasts are the cells within the dermis responsible for producing collagen, elastin and many of the structural components that keep skin strong and resilient. PRP does not fill the face or artificially add volume. Instead, it aims to encourage a controlled repair response within the skin.
What can PRP improve?
PRP may be recommended to support:
- Skin texture
- Fine lines
- Reduced elasticity
- Dull or tired-looking skin
- Crepey skin
- Delicate skin around the eyes
- Sun-damaged skin
- Atrophic acne scarring
- Recovery when combined with selected resurfacing treatments
PRP is particularly suited to clients seeking gradual, natural-looking improvement rather than a change in facial shape.
What does the research show?
Research into PRP for facial rejuvenation has reported improvements in skin texture, collagen density and overall skin appearance. Histological studies have also demonstrated increased dermal collagen following treatment. However, the evidence remains variable because PRP preparation systems, platelet concentrations, injection techniques and treatment schedules differ considerably between studies. A major systematic review concluded that PRP appears safe and may offer modest benefits for ageing skin, with the strongest evidence relating to improvement in facial skin texture. This is important: PRP is promising, but it should not be presented as a guaranteed facelift or a complete reversal of skin ageing.
PRP and microneedling
Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries within the skin, stimulating a natural wound-healing response. When PRP is combined with microneedling, the two treatments may complement one another:
- Microneedling provides the controlled mechanical stimulus.
- PRP supplies concentrated platelet-derived biological signals.
- Together, they may support collagen remodelling and tissue recovery.
Evidence is particularly encouraging when PRP is added to microneedling, subcision or fractional treatments for atrophic acne scars. Reviews have found greater improvement than with some of these procedures alone.
Is PRP anti-inflammatory?
PRP is involved in regulating the healing response, but describing it simply as an “anti-inflammatory treatment” would be misleading. Inflammation is a necessary early stage of repair. Platelet-derived signals participate in this process and may subsequently help coordinate tissue healing and remodelling. Some studies combining PRP with fractional procedures have reported reduced redness and improved recovery, suggesting that PRP may help modulate treatment-related inflammation in certain settings.
Why is a course recommended?
Skin regeneration takes time. Collagen synthesis and extracellular-matrix remodelling continue for weeks after treatment, so PRP is usually most effective when planned as a course rather than viewed as a once-off facial. Depending on the client’s skin and treatment goals, Dr Fiona Curran may recommend a series of approximately three treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart, followed by review. Results develop gradually and may include improved texture, luminosity, firmness and resilience.
Who may benefit?
PRP may be considered for clients who:
- Prefer a treatment using material obtained from their own blood
- Want gradual, natural-looking skin improvement
- Have fine lines or reduced skin quality
- Notice crepiness around the eyes, face or neck
- Have selected types of acne scarring
- Wish to support recovery alongside an appropriate collagen-stimulating procedure
PRP is not suitable for everyone. Medical history, medication, platelet function, active skin conditions and the individual’s treatment goals must be assessed before proceeding.
Why choose Woulfe Skin Specialists?
Every PRP programme begins with a medical consultation with Dr Fiona Curran. Dr Fiona assesses your skin quality, facial anatomy, medical history, medication, previous treatments and expectations before deciding whether PRP is appropriate—or whether another treatment would deliver a better result. The goal is not simply younger-looking skin. It is healthier, stronger and more resilient skin, treated with medical judgement and respect for your natural features.
