When I first heard people calling PRP facials the “vampire facial”, I realized the internet would never stop amusing me. Those famous Kim Kardashian before-and-afters really sparked both creativity and a beauty trend.
That sure went viral. Some thought it looked a little intense, others wanted to know: what exactly is this new vampire facial treatment?
In medicine, we’re a little less dramatic with our wording. We just call it a PRP facial; that’s platelet-rich plasma with microneedling. Not quite as catchy as a vampire facelift, but definitely more accurate.
So, what is it exactly? A PRP face treatment involves taking a small sample of your own blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets, and then re-injecting that concentrated serum back into your skin.
This may not sound as you expected. Once I explain how your body’s own growth factors work, the benefits of PRP for your skin will make perfect sense.
How Does PRP Facial Work?
Today, PRP therapy is widely used in sports medicine to heal muscles and joints. That same science applies to skin care. For a PRP facial, we usually combine the platelet-rich plasma with microneedling, because for that area, it offers better results.
Let me explain how and why we do it like this.
First, let’s talk about PRP itself. Our blood is full of growth factors. These are the messengers that tell your body how to heal and regenerate.
How does a PRP facial work? We take a small sample of your blood, process it in a centrifuge to isolate those platelets, and then reinject that concentrated serum back into your skin. The result? Your own growth factors stimulate new collagen and elastin production. That’s how PRP facial improves the skin, making it smoother and firmer.
Similar to what I explained on my article about PRP vs PRF, here’s the typical step-by-step process for a PRP facial treatment:
- Blood draw: about 10–30 cc, just like a routine blood test.
- Centrifuge: we spin the sample to separate the platelet-rich plasma (that golden, amber-colored serum).
- PRP application: the concentrated platelets are injected or applied to the treatment area.
- Microneedling: tiny, controlled micro-injuries boost collagen and help your skin absorb all those growth factors more effectively.
There are different ways to apply a PRP facial: some providers microneedle first and then apply PRP topically; others inject the plasma before microneedling. Also, we can use advanced needling techniques like nappage for tiny, shallow microinjections; or mesotherapy papule technique, the one that gives the “vampire facial” its signature look.
All of these PRP facial techniques work. The key is having it done by a qualified medical professional using sterile needles and equipment. That’s what ensures both safety and results.
Now, let’s talk about why PRP facials are so effective. Platelets are cell fragments in the blood that play a vital role in clotting and tissue repair. For example, when you cut yourself, platelets help protect and regenerate that wound.
Packed inside platelets are powerful growth factors. In a PRP treatment face procedure, we concentrate those growth factors and deliver them to your skin: cheeks, forehead, jawline, nose, chin and lips.
Instead of filling lines with synthetic products like Botox or dermal fillers, PRP signals your body to renew its own tissue. It’s natural, minimally invasive, and when performed correctly, really safe.
Next, let’s talk about the rejuvenation power of a PRP treatment for the face.
PRP Facial Benefits You Can Actually See
One of the best things about a PRP facial is its long lasting results. Most patients enjoy the benefits for 18 to 24 months. That’s because instead of covering up problems, PRP triggers your skin’s natural healing response. Like pressing “reset” on your skin.
With a complete PRP treatment for facial rejuvenation, we’re encouraging new cell growth across the cheeks, nose, forehead, jawline, and even around the lips. And the best part: it’s all natural.
Here are some of the most common PRP facial benefits patients notice:
- Softer fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve elasticity and get a youthful glow
- Smoother texture and reduced acne scars
- Smaller pores and more even tone
The most common question here is, when patients see these results? A PRP facial triggers gradual skin regeneration, and heals naturally over time. After your first session, you’ll notice subtle improvements within the first month. Over the next 6 to 9 months, results keep building. Many people see their PRP facial before and after photos and can’t believe the difference.
Let’s compare PRP facial treatment with other popular skin rejuvenation techniques.
Microneedling with PRP vs. Traditional Facial
Here we’ll take a moment to circle back to what microneedling is. On its own, it’s a popular treatment often offered at med spas and beauty clinics. Microneedling works with tiny, controlled micro-needles that create small injuries that trigger your body’s natural collagen and elastin production. It’s like a gentle wake-up call for your skin.
That natural healing boost that microneedling has is what makes it the perfect match for PRP facials. Here is how they complement each other:
As microneedling improves absorption. So, when we add platelet-rich plasma to the process, those growth factors penetrate deeper into the dermis. This means we can keep PRP injections more superficial while still getting a powerful effect.
In other words, PRP is the main rejuvenating force, and microneedling is how we supercharge its delivery. Both are natural procedures, and they work great together.
But how does a PRP facial compare to traditional rejuvenation treatments like Botox or dermal fillers?
Botox works by blocking the muscle contractions that cause wrinkles. Effective, yes, but it’s a neurotoxin, and not exactly natural. Results can sometimes look a little frozen or puffy because Botox blocks your body’s natural responses rather than boosting them.
Something similar happens with other dermal fillers like Dysport or Xeomin. They add volume, but they only last about 3 to 6 months. Great for quick fixes, but the results are temporary and not as healthy.
With a PRP facial, you’re getting something different. Instead of freezing or filling, you’re signaling your body to regenerate. Results build gradually, look more natural, and last much longer, often within 18 to 24 months. That’s the real difference when comparing a PRP facial vs microneedling alone, or versus injectables like Botox.
Is PRP Facial Safe? What to Expect
Yes, a PRP facial is a safe, minimally invasive procedure. Because it comes from your own blood, the risk of infection or rejection is very low. That said, as with any other medical procedure, it needs to be done by professionals, in a proper environment, and with sterile tools.
At True Contour, we offer PRP facials as part of our regenerative medicine treatments. Here’s what a typical session with us looks like:
- Prep: We start by cleaning the facial area to prevent infection. Then apply a topical anesthetic so the injections are comfortable.
- Blood draw: We take a small sample of blood from your arm. It’s usually 10 to 30 cc, about the same as a routine blood test.
- Processing: The blood goes into a centrifuge, where we separate the platelet-rich plasma. At True Contour, we use the Apex Biologix system. It’s top-of-the-line equipment that gives us a highly concentrated PRP serum.
- Microneedling: Before applying the plasma, we use Morpheus8 microneedling to prepare your skin. Those tiny microchannels help your PRP penetrate deeper for better results.
- PRP application: Finally, we inject or apply the platelet-rich plasma to your face. This is the part that gives the “vampire facial” its signature look. But don’t worry, it fades quickly.
An entire PRP treatment face session takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and most patients have no downtime. The most common short-lived side effects are mild redness, swelling, or sensitivity, which typically fade within 24 hours.
Because PRP comes from your own body, allergic reactions are extremely rare, but only if it’s performed correctly. If somewhere is offering a PRP facial at a suspiciously low price, it usually means they’re cutting corners on equipment, facility standards, or provider training.
Who performs your treatment matters a lot. A PRP facial should always be done by a medical doctor, dermatologist, nurse practitioner, or other health professional. Not by unlicensed cosmetologists or beauty consultants. And it should always be in a clean, sterile environment.
This is where at True Contour, we have a bit of an edge. Our equipment and facilities are all according to the highest medical standards. Also, as I’m a cosmetic surgeon and anesthesiologist, I’ve refined my injection technique over years of practice. My experience with precision treatments like liposuction has made me extra careful with how I handle procedures. especially delicate ones like the face.
Before any PRP facial treatment, we also review your medical history to check for risk factors such as anticoagulant use or chronic skin conditions. That extra step is what keeps the treatment safe, simple, and effective.
How To Book PRP Facial
If you’re ready for a refreshed, rejuvenated look, booking your PRP facial at True Contour couldn’t be easier. Our online scheduling is simple, and you’ll get the chance to ask all the questions you have.
During your consultation we’ll talk about what brought you here. Maybe even chat about when you first heard of vampire facials in the media. We doctors also like to share some small talk!
Also, it will be your chance to ask anything you want to know about PRP facials: the needles, the safety steps we take, or what kind of PRP facial before and after results you can expect.
Some patients want us to focus on their cheeks, others on fine lines across the forehead. In some cases, it’s just a subtle touch-up. Whatever your goals, we’ll talk it through together.
When you book your PRP facial with us, you can trust you’re choosing one of the best cosmetic clinics in Scottsdale. We’re a team of professionals who put your safety, comfort, and results first.So go ahead and schedule your consultation today. Let’s talk about your goals and see how a PRP treatment face session can help you look younger, brighter, and even more confident in your smile.