Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is a trend nowadays. It uses extracts of the body for tissue healing and regeneration. It has applications in various fields, including orthopaedics, hair restoration, and dermatology. Facial PRP is a cosmetic procedure used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, scars, and to improve skin texture.
With all the hype surrounding PRP, many of you might be considering trying it once to see if it works. You have read about the procedure and realised its benefits. Now the question is- will one session be enough? Or how many sessions will it take to achieve real results that last? If this question has ever popped up in your mind, then this blog is for you.
In this blog breakdown, the realistic expectations of one session of facial PRP. We will also explore the benefits of multiple sessions and explore if it’s worth continuing.
What is PRP Facial, And How Does It Work?
Facial PRP uses concentrated platelets to rejuvenate the skin. Blood is drawn from the patient and centrifuged. Platelet-rich plasma is extracted from the blood. This plasma can then be introduced to the skin in multiple ways. It is either spread onto the skin or delivered via needling or injected directly into the facial skin. Facial PRP is used to improve skin texture, firmness, and reduce signs of ageing such as wrinkles and scars.
As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, and repeated facial expressions cause wrinkles. PRP is rich in growth factors. PRP growth factors are a collection of bioactive proteins released by platelets in Platelet-Rich Plasma. When introduced to the skin, these growth factors stimulate fibroblast cells. They, in turn, produce new collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin help to reduce wrinkles, improve firmness, and enhance skin elasticity.
What Can You Realistically Expect from Just One Facial PRP Session?
It is better not to go for facial PRP with unrealistic expectations. Let’s keep it real.
First 24 to 48 hours
After one session of facial PRP, you will notice a slight swelling or puffiness. If the PRP was injected or combined with micro needling, this is a normal reaction of the body. It is the body’s natural inflammatory response kicking in. It is part of the healing and regeneration process. The skin may also look flushed and feel warm. This slight sunburnt look will fade within a day or two. Clients usually report a noticeable radiance within 24 hours of the procedure. It is the result of increased blood flow and the temporary plumping effect of the inflammation.
Days 3 to 10
This is the time when subtle improvements become visible. The skin becomes noticeably smoother, and fine lines become softer. Dry and flaky areas will improve. PRP helps to boost circulation and cell regeneration, resulting in better skin tone and a brighter complexion. The natural hydration response and increased collagen production make your skin firmer and fuller in certain areas, especially around the cheeks and under the eyes. The effects at this time are subtle and not dramatic.
2 to 4 Weeks After Treatment
This is when you see the real magic. You notice a smoother, more balanced complexion if you have been taking care of it after treatment. As your body continues to respond to the growth factors, the complexion improves. The residual redness and minor pigmentation start to fade. Collagen and elastin are the proteins responsible for youthful, resilient skin. PRP stimulates the production of both. While the best results of collagen production are usually noticeable after multiple sessions, some clients have reported tighter pores, slightly firmer skin, or a more lifted appearance in certain areas. The skin feels stronger, more elastic, and hydrated.
Why One Session May Be Enough for Some People
For long-lasting results, multiple sessions are required for facial PRP. But it is safe to say that one session can still be beneficial, particularly for certain individuals.
If you are in your 20s or early 30s and have generally healthy skin, one facial PRP session is sufficient to give the skin a natural boost. Younger skin has more collagen reserves and faster cellular turnover. It responds more quickly and visibly to PRP treatments. Facial PRP improves dull, dehydrated-looking skin. Early fine lines will also noticeably improve.
Facial PRP is perfect for a pre-event “refresh”. One session of facial PRP can give you that fresh, radiant glow if you schedule it one to two weeks before a big event like a wedding or reunion. It will not dramatically change your skin, but a single session can improve skin tone and texture.
The results of a single session are more pronounced in clients who maintain a good skincare routine, eat well, stay hydrated, and protect their skin from sun damage.
When a facial PRP session is combined with microneedling, LED light therapy, or gentle peels, the effect is more enhanced. These combinations improve PRP absorption and stimulate healing pathways, making the results more effective.
Why One Session Usually Isn’t Enough
The enhanced skin tone and texture after a single facial PRP session are subtle yet undeniable. However, collagen regeneration is cumulative. It takes three to six sessions for visible changes in deeper lines and scars. Facial PRP should be an ongoing treatment that helps to remodel skin gradually. The skin is constantly ageing, and continuous maintenance is necessary. A single session may not address deep texture issues or pigmentation. The results of PRP are built over time.
If you are satisfied with the results after one session, imagine the improvement after three or four. PRP sessions are usually repeated at 4–6-week intervals. The results actually build upon each other. The process is more effective when combined with microneedling, peels or LED.
Is One PRP Session Enough for You?
The answer to this question is not one-size-fits-all. There are many factors to consider.
Age
If you are under 35 and have reasonably good skin, a single session of PRP will give you a refreshed look. Younger skin tends to show visible results immediately.
Skin Goals
Ask yourself this question: What is the result you expect from a facial PRP session? A single session will definitely give you a glow. However, issues like scars, pigmentation, and deep lines will require multiple sessions.
Budget
Multiple sessions will leave a strain on your wallet. So, your decision should also be based on your budget.
Patience
Short-term results are subtle and address a certain set of skin issues. Long-term results take time and require patience to address a different set of skin issues.
Openness to ongoing treatment
Ongoing treatment takes planning and diligence. It may not be suitable for all because it requires a level of commitment.
So Finally
It’s true- one session can benefit your skin. Keep your expectations real and don’t expect a miracle after a single session of facial PRP. You will notice a glow-up and a subtle improvement in skin tone and texture after a single session. It is better to consider the first session as the first step. If you like the results after the first treatment, consider multiple sessions for long-lasting results.
Colibri Laser and Beauty in Toronto offers the best PRP treatments. Book a consultation today!