Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is blood plasma that has been enriched with platelets and growth factor. The platelets are best known for their importance in clotting blood. However, platelets also contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors which are very important in the healing of injuries. PRP was found initially in 1970 and being used for the first time for heart dissection in 1987. Since then PRP has grown and being used to treat various was wounds in the sport. Famous atlets such as Tiger Woods, Donovan Bailey, Alex Rodrigues, Tracy McGrady, Cliff Lee and Fred Couples has been used therapy with this method. PRP has more widespread use in medicine now, ex: alopecia androgenetic therapy, skin rejuvenation, wound healing, acne scars and stretch marks (due to pregnancy or changes in body weight). Clinical data and research has shown that this therapy is very safe, with minimal side effects, will not cause allergy and hypersensitivity reaction because the blood is withdrown from the patients own body (autologus). This process had almost no pain, no down time, and it’s very effective for long term improvements. Benefits of PRP in anti aging and cosmetics : 1. Reduce Hair Loss and baldness Hair loss, baldness, and alopecia usually need oral and topical therapy. But the use of a long-term drug could potentially generate side effects. PRP is a new therapy to stimulate the hair regrowth without almost none side effects. The procedure of PRP therapy is to inject blood plasma directly to the scalp. After several times, a hair follicle shall be stronger, the circulation of the blood in the scalp will be better , thus improving hair loss 2. The Healing of Injuries Burns or ulcus diabetics are kinds of wounds that hard to be healed and often gave unsatisfactory results. PRP cells will stimulate growth factors and give speed wound healing. 3. Skin Rejuvenation As we age, exposure the sun and pollution can make the elasticity of skin decline. The skin will developed wrinkles, sagging and pigmentation. PRP Rejuvenation will regenerate new cells, promoting skin growth and improve elasticity of collagen tissues and giving the skin smoother and younger looks. 4. Scars and Stretch Marks Scars and stretch marks need interventional therapy to improve texture and rebuilt new collagen tissue. PRP will repair the damage and create new collagen and elastin layer to improve scars and stretch marks. 5. Internal Organ Anti Aging Besides for hair and skin problem, growth factors work in all organs and body tissues. PRP produces growth factors that may signal the improvement of cells, such as Platelet-Derivied Growth Factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor (TGF), Platelet Factor Interleukin (IL), Platelet-Derivied Angiogenesis Factor (PDAF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor ( VEGF), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF) and Fibronectin. The function of IGF-1 :
- Enhancement of cognitive function
- Improvement of blood circulation
- Prevention of blocking and narrowing blood vessels
- Enhancement of lung function
- Stronger bones and muscles
- Improvement of our immune system
It has been proven that PRP is very beneficial for internal and external organs. It is safe and will be effective for long term improvements. Index :
- http://prp.411.com/prp-overview
- Lubkowska A, Dolegowska B, Banfi G. Growth factor content in PRP and their applicability in medicine. J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2012 Apr-Jun; 26 (2 Suppl 1): 3S – 22S