PRP For Under Eyes
If you feel like nothing ever really works for your dark undereye circles, then this blog post is for you! Dark circles can be incredibly stubborn and hard to address with solely medical-grade skincare and makeup. That’s because the underlying causes often go beyond the surface, such as thinning skin, poor circulation, or volume loss. Fortunately, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments offer a cutting-edge solution that works from the inside out. PRP harnesses your body’s natural healing powers to brighten the under eye area, improve skin texture, and restore a refreshed appearance - for good. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this treatment as explained by our expert Defy nurse practitioners!
What is PRP?
PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma, which is made from your own blood and packed with natural healing properties. Here’s how it works: a small sample of your blood is taken and spun in a machine called a centrifuge. This process separates the plasma - the part of your blood that’s rich in platelets -from the red and white blood cells.
The plasma that’s left behind is full of platelets and growth factors, which help your body heal, repair, and regenerate. These natural ingredients are key to improving skin health, boosting collagen, and creating a smoother, more youthful appearance. PRP is a safe and natural way to refresh your skin and address concerns like dark circles and fine lines without adding anything artificial to your body.
So, How Does PRP Work for Undereyes?
The undereye area has some of the thinnest and most delicate skin on the body, making it especially prone to showing signs of aging, fatigue, and stress. This sensitivity means that issues like dark circles, fine lines, and crepey skin are often more visible in this area compared to other parts of the face. PRP treatments work by using your body’s natural healing abilities to address these concerns from the inside out. Here’s how:
-Stimulates Collagen Production: PRP activates fibroblasts - the cells that produce collagen - to improve the structure and elasticity of the skin. With increased collagen, the skin becomes firmer, thicker, and more resilient, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
-Improves Circulation: Growth factors in PRP enhance blood flow and microcirculation in the treated area. Poor circulation can contribute to dark circles, especially those with a bluish or purple tint, by causing blood to pool under the eyes. Improved circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to the area, reducing discoloration and puffiness over time.
-Regenerates Tissue: PRP promotes cell turnover and tissue repair, which helps to restore a smoother and more youthful texture to the under eye skin. This regeneration process can soften crepey skin and fill in the shallow grooves that contribute to a tired appearance.
-Brightens Skin Tone: PRP also reduces inflammation and supports healthier cellular function, which helps to lighten pigmentation and even out skin tone. This is particularly beneficial for dark circles caused by hyperpigmentation or thinning skin that allows underlying veins to show through.
What Can PRP Under Eye Treatments Address?
PRP is an excellent option for individuals who are looking for a natural, holistic approach to rejuvenating their undereye area. Here’s what this innovative treatment can help with:
-Dark Circles: If you struggle with stubborn dark circles, PRP can be a game-changer. It’s especially effective for dark circles caused by poor circulation or thinning skin, which can make veins more visible. PRP improves blood flow and thickens the skin, helping to reduce discoloration and create a brighter, more even tone.
-Fine Lines and Wrinkles: The undereye area is one of the first places to show fine lines due to the delicate nature of the skin. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, PRP smooths out crepey skin and restores elasticity, leaving the area looking firmer and more youthful.
-Hollowness: While PRP doesn’t provide the instant volume of dermal fillers, it enhances the overall quality of the skin, making hollows less pronounced over time. By improving skin thickness and texture, PRP can create a more balanced and refreshed appearance.
-Tired Appearance: Do your eyes always look tired, even when you’re well-rested? PRP can help revitalize the skin, giving you a more awake and refreshed look. By addressing multiple concerns at once—from fine lines to discoloration—PRP restores a youthful vibrancy that brightens your entire face.
The PRP Under Eye Treatment Process:
PRP is an excellent option for individuals who are looking for a natural, holistic approach to rejuvenating their undereye area. Here’s what this innovative treatment can help with:
-Consultation: Your Defy provider will assess your concerns, review your medical history, and determine if PRP is the right treatment for you.
-Blood Draw: Then, a small amount of your blood is drawn - similar to a routine blood test.
-Centrifugation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge, a machine that spins it at high speeds to separate the plasma (rich in platelets) from the red and white blood cells.
-Preparation: The platelet-rich plasma is carefully extracted and prepared for treatment.
-Application: Then, the PRP is applied to the undereye area via microneedling, injections, or a combination of both.
-Post-Treatment Care: After the procedure, your provider will give you detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results.
What Does the Treatment Feel Like?
Most patients describe the treatment as comfortable. A topical numbing cream is often applied to minimize discomfort during microneedling or injections. You may feel slight pressure or pinching during the procedure, but it’s generally quick and manageable!
How Long Does It Take?
The entire process, from consultation to treatment, typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The actual PRP application only takes about 10-15 minutes.
Is There Any Downtime?
PRP under eye treatments are minimally invasive and require little to no downtime, making them a convenient option for busy lifestyles! While the treatment itself is quick and straightforward, you may notice swelling, redness, or bruising immediately afterward. These side effects are completely normal and typically resolve within a few days. Most patients find that they can return to their normal activities the same day, though it’s a good idea to avoid strenuous exercise or direct sun exposure for 24-48 hours to allow the area to heal optimally.
When Will I See Results?
PRP works by stimulating your body’s natural healing processes, so results are not immediate. Most patients notice gradual improvements over the course of several weeks as collagen production increases and the skin regenerates. Full results are typically visible within 4-6 weeks, and a series of treatments is often recommended for the best outcome!
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique concerns and goals. Generally, 2-4 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart are recommended to achieve optimal results. Maintenance treatments every 6-12 months can help sustain the benefits!
If you’re ready to rejuvenate your under eye area with PRP, the first step is scheduling a consultation at our downtown Bethesda medical spa. During this visit, we’ll discuss your concerns, evaluate your skin, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs!
Whether you're interested in filler, Botox/Dysport, collagen-boosting lasers, or want to learn more about our Defy Monthly Facial Membership (a perfect choice for those who want to transform their skin without the price tag over the course of a year!), we’d love to see you in our Bethesda medical spa soon.