Many people in the USA notice changes in their bodies that affect their daily pace. Pain lingers longer, injuries take time to heal, and hair thinning becomes more noticeable. These frustrations can build up, making daily life feel a bit heavier.
That’s why many are paying attention to PRP therapy as a natural option for support. It’s becoming part of the conversation around smarter, science-based care. If you’re exploring what this treatment can offer, this guide walks you through its uses, treatments, and benefits.
What is PRP Therapy?
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is an aesthetic process that uses your own blood to promote healing. A small amount of blood is drawn and centrifuged to separate platelets. These contain growth factors that support tissue repair and regeneration.
Many people turn to PRP for joint pain, injuries, hair thinning, or age-related changes. It works with the body’s natural healing, rather than just masking symptoms.
What is PRP Treatment Used For?
PRP therapy is used for a variety of conditions, from injuries and joint pain to cosmetic concerns. Its applications are diverse, and treatments can be personalised for specific needs, helping the body repair and recover naturally.
Chronic Tendon Injuries
Chronic tendon injuries like tennis elbow and patellar tendinopathy can resist healing and cause ongoing discomfort. Research shows that patients with chronic tennis elbow treated with PRP had about 83.9% success at 24 weeks, compared with 68.3% with standard treatments. It indicates significant long‑term improvement in pain and function for many individuals.
Acute Ligament and Muscle Injuries
PRP has been explored for sports-related ligament and muscle injuries, though research results are mixed. Some studies show that for acute grade I–II muscle strains, PRP therapy can help athletes return to sports a little faster than standard treatment.
However, the scientific evidence supporting this benefit is limited and not very strong. But about 75% of patients returned to play following PRP treatment and recovery protocols.
Osteoarthritis(Knee Arthritis) and Fractures
PRP therapy for knees is increasingly used to reduce pain and improve mobility in mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis. PRP injections have been shown to provide better pain relief and improved function compared with standard treatments.
Studies suggest that PRP treatment for knees can last up to a year. Evidence on long-term joint changes remains limited, as it has shown no clear benefit for fracture risk.
Hair Loss
PRP injections can treat hair thinning and male pattern baldness by stimulating natural hair growth. Studies show PRP therapy for hair can increase density by about 25 hairs per square centimetre. Between 60% and 80% of patients notice visible improvement in growth or reduced shedding following multiple PRP sessions.
Skin Rejuvenation
PRP injections are sometimes used for skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing purposes. Research shows that PRP therapy for the skin significantly reduces wrinkles and fine lines. Some studies suggest mild improvements in skin texture and tone. PRP treatment for skin may support collagen production, but results vary based on the patient’s skin goals and condition.
How Does it Work?
Understanding how PRP therapy works can help you know what to expect during treatment. This section explains the steps involved, from preparation to recovery, so you can see how the process supports healing and overall effectiveness.
Before Treatment
Before the treatment, you’ll first have a consultation to review your medical history and goals. Your medical provider will ask you to stop certain medications, like NSAIDs and blood thinners, several days before treatment.
Staying well‑hydrated and eating balanced meals helps with blood draw and overall results. You should also avoid alcohol or smoking for a few days to support optimal platelet quality and healing.
During Treatment
During your PRP session, your provider will first draw a blood sample. This avoids complications associated with donor blood. It is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins it to separate platelets and plasma from other blood components.
The concentrated PRP, often with three to five times the usual platelet count, is then carefully injected into the targeted area. In some cases, ultrasound guidance is used for precise placement, and a local anesthetic may be applied for comfort.
Post-treatment
After PRP therapy, mild swelling, soreness, or bruising at the injection site is common. These symptoms signal the body’s natural healing process and usually last one to two days. Initial results, like pain relief or hair growth, may appear within a few weeks, while full benefits can take several months.
Some patients require multiple PRP sessions or additional therapies for optimal results. Following your provider’s instructions is key to maximizing recovery and effectiveness.
Risk and Side Effects
PRP therapy is generally safe because it uses your own blood, but it still carries some risks. Most side effects are mild and short-term, while serious complications are uncommon. Choosing an experienced provider helps reduce these risks.
Common, Mild Effects
- Soreness at the injection site
- Temporary swelling
- Mild bruising
- Short-lived stiffness or discomfort
Less Common Risks
- Infection at the injection site
- Minor bleeding
- Tissue irritation or damage
- Nerve irritation
- Increased pain for a brief period
Rare Risks
- Allergic-type reactions (extremely uncommon)
- Contamination if sterile technique isn’t followed
Important Considerations
- People taking blood thinners or those with bleeding disorders may face higher risks.
- PRP is cleared for use, but many applications are still considered investigational and may not be covered by insurance.
PRP Therapy Benefits
PRP therapy is used in many medical fields because it supports the body’s natural repair process. While results vary by condition, several potential benefits are consistently reported in research and clinical practice.
Key benefits include:
- Support for tissue healing: Concentrated growth factors in PRP help injured tissues repair, especially in tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
- Reduced inflammation: Some studies show that PRP can lower inflammatory markers, which may help ease symptoms in conditions like tendonitis and mild knee osteoarthritis.
- Use of your own blood: Because PRP comes from your body, the risk of allergic reactions is lower compared to treatments that use synthetic or donor materials.
- Minimally invasive approach: PRP therapy involves only a blood draw and injections, making it a low-downtime option for people who want to avoid more invasive procedures.
- Possible symptom relief: Many patients report improvements in pain, mobility, or hair density within weeks to months, depending on the area being treated.
- Versatility in care: PRP can be used alone or combined with other therapies, such as physical therapy, joint injections, or cosmetic procedures, when a doctor finds it appropriate.
How MarSha MedSpa Can Help You With PRP Therapy?
MarSha MedSpa offers PRP and PRF treatments designed to boost collagen, support skin repair, and restore natural volume. Each visit begins with a consultation with the medical provider, who reviews your goals, medical history, and CBC levels to confirm that the treatment is safe and suitable for you.
We offer these services to help restore volume under the eyes and around the mouth by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production. These can reduce hollowness, soften folds, and improve shadows. Most clients need 1–3 sessions, spaced weeks apart, with optional maintenance. Our additional services include PRP microneedling and PRP joint injections.
If you’re considering these treatments, our team is here to help you understand what will work best for your skin. Schedule your PRP/PRF appointment at MarSha MedSpa today and let our provider guide you through a personalised plan that fits your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does PRP therapy cost?
It can vary widely based on the treatment area and number of sessions. Most clinics charge on a per-session basis, and prices are typically paid out of pocket because insurance rarely covers PRP.
What is PRP therapy good for?
PRP therapy helps boost healing and collagen using your own platelets. It’s commonly used for skin rejuvenation, hair regrowth, and the relief of joint or tendon pain through natural tissue repair.
How long do PRP injections last?
PRP injections typically last 9–18 months, depending on the condition treated, your age, and how fast your body remodels collagen or heals tissue. Some people need maintenance sessions once or twice a year.
Is PRP 100% safe?
PRP therapy is generally safe because it uses your own blood, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. However, mild, temporary side effects such as pain, swelling, bruising, or injection-site infection may occur.
Is PRP worth the money?
Whether PRP is worth the money depends on individual goals and response to treatment. Many patients experience meaningful improvement in pain relief, hair growth, or skin quality, but results vary. For some, multiple sessions provide lasting benefit; for others, results are modest.
