It’s not magic – it’s PRP! Platelet-rich plasma restores your “crowning glory” or vibrant skin

Through the decades, at Ginsburg Dermatology Center, we have not been strangers to the innovative therapies that promote healthy, attractive skin, hair, and nails. Our dermatologist, Dr. Barry Ginsburg, was the first to bring Botox® and other cosmetic treatments to the Birmingham, Alabama, area. He has also established himself as an early adopter and authority in treating everything from excess fat and laxity to severe acne and scarring. All this being said, the use of platelet-rich plasma fits in with the many other advanced types of treatment and technologies available at our center. Additionally, our patients from throughout the Mountain Brook, Trussville, Pell City, and Anniston region have peace of mind that their appearance, safety, and health are in truly skilled, experienced, and trusted hands. 

A primer on PRP 

Platelet-rich plasma may sound like a nifty treatment, but it has been used for decades in various clinical settings. Notably, PRP is a well-established “healer.” Dermatologists like our own Dr. Ginsburg apply PRP to improve: 

  • Scars
  • Fine lines 
  • Wrinkles and folds 
  • Laxity (loose skin)
  • Large, visible pores
  • Uneven tone 
  • Dry texture 
  • Overall skin renewal or rejuvenation

Additionally, our team can even treat patients with a type of hair loss known as hormonal or “androgenetic” alopecia characterized by distinctive pattern baldness. 

The “magic” of PRP

Platelet cells in the blood are pivotal to proper clotting. In conjunction with liquid plasma, platelets contain “growth factors” that support the multiplication of cells and healing. PRP is prepared and applied first by getting a small sample of the patient’s blood. The sample is then placed in a special machine called a “centrifuge.” The centrifuge process rapidly spins the blood and, in doing so, separates it into components. The result is enriched cells that are heavily concentrated with those healing, rejuvenating platelets! When Dr. Ginsburg precisely and safely injects the PRP into your scalp or face, a process is triggered whereby cell growth is promoted to repair and heal tissues. Specifically, the platelets release those growth factors or substances which are needed to “recruit” the cells responsible for hair restoration. 

Candidates for PRP

The addition of PRP to your treatment plan is primarily very safe because the blood is “autologous” or derived from your own body. The risks associated with other synthetic- or donor-derived substances and treatments are eliminated. PRP’s capacity to speed up healing is well documented, and it is associated with little to no downtime and undesirable side effects. 

 As with any procedure, PRP is not “universally-appropriate”; for instance, not all patients with hair loss may be good candidates. Additionally, Dr. Ginsburg may recommend that you stop taking certain medications before treatment because they may inhibit the clotting process. This process is needed for the platelets to stimulate healing. Take great care to avoid strenuous activities, unprotected exposure to sunlight, and dramatic temperature fluctuations for one to three days following treatment. To find out more about PRP and options to restore your confident “crowning glory” and skin, call Ginsburg Dermatology Center at (205) 209-4780 today.