What is PRP and How is it Used in Microneedling?

If you’ve been researching microneedling, you may have come across the term PRP. Some clinics combine microneedling with PRP for skin rejuvenation, while others (like us at Seneca Falls Acupuncture) choose to focus on traditional microneedling without PRP.

Here’s what PRP is, how it’s used in microneedling, and why we don’t use it in our practice.

What Is PRP?

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It’s derived from your own blood:

1. 1. A small vial of blood is drawn.
2. 2. It’s spun in a centrifuge to separate the plasma, which is rich in platelets and growth factors.
3. 3. That plasma is then applied topically to the skin or injected after microneedling.

The idea is that PRP may enhance healing and collagen production when combined with the micro-injuries created by microneedling.

Learn more in-depth info about microneedling here.

How Is PRP Used in Microneedling?

When combined with microneedling, PRP is applied to the face immediately after treatment. Because microneedling creates thousands of tiny microchannels in the skin, the PRP is absorbed more easily. The theory is that the growth factors in PRP can further stimulate collagen, elastin, and skin regeneration.

Some clinics also perform “vampire facials,” where PRP is injected directly into the skin after microneedling.

Do You Need PRP for Microneedling to Work?

No. Microneedling works very effectively on its own. The tiny microchannels naturally trigger your body’s healing process, which increases collagen and elastin production. Patients often see improvements in:

• – Fine lines and wrinkles
• – Skin tone and texture
• – Acne scarring
• – Hyperpigmentation and sun damage

Research is mixed on whether PRP provides significantly better results compared to microneedling alone. For many people, the improvements from microneedling without PRP deliver excellent results.

Why We Don’t Use PRP at Seneca Falls Acupuncture

At Seneca Falls Acupuncture, we focus on traditional microneedling without PRP. Here’s why:

• – Excellent results without it: Our patients consistently see smoother, brighter, healthier skin using microneedling alone.
• – Simpler process: PRP requires a blood draw and extra processing steps.
• – Lower cost: By skipping PRP, we keep treatments more affordable while still delivering strong results. Depending on the clinic, adding PRP can sometimes double the cost per treatment.

The Bottom Line

PRP can be an optional addition to microneedling, but we find that it’s an expensive extra step it isn’t necessary for beautiful results. Microneedling alone stimulates your skin’s natural healing process to improve tone, texture, and elasticity.

If you’re curious about whether microneedling is right for you, we’d love to help!