Treatment Overview
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy is a popular regenerative skin treatment in Korea, often referred to as the “vampire facial.” It uses the patient’s own blood plasma — rich in growth factors and healing proteins — to stimulate cell renewal, collagen production, and skin repair.
PRP is widely used in Korean dermatology clinics for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), acne scars, fine lines, dullness, enlarged pores, and overall rejuvenation. It can be performed as standalone injections, microneedling with PRP, or combined with lasers such as Pico or Nd:YAG for enhanced pigment and texture improvement.
Purpose & Benefits
- Natural Skin Healing: Uses your own blood, reducing allergy or rejection risk.
- Pigmentation Control: Supports skin repair, helping fade PIH and post-acne marks.
- Collagen Stimulation: Improves elasticity, fine lines, and acne scars.
- Skin Brightening: Enhances tone and radiance.
- Synergistic Results: Often paired with lasers or skin boosters for more dramatic effects.
Ideal Candidates
PRP Therapy in Korea is suitable for:
- Patients with PIH from acne or skin trauma.
- Individuals with acne scars, dull skin, or enlarged pores.
- Adults seeking a natural, regenerative approach.
- Those with sensitive or Asian skin types where gentle, safe methods are preferred.
Possible Risks & Complications
PRP is considered very safe because it uses the patient’s own plasma. However, mild and temporary side effects may occur:
- Redness & Swelling: Usually subsides in 24–48 hours.
- Pinpoint Bruising: At injection or microneedling sites.
- Mild Flaking or Tightness: Part of skin renewal.
- Rare Risks: Infection or irritation (minimized with proper sterile technique).
Techniques Used
- PRP Injections: Directly placed into problem areas.
- PRP Microneedling: Tiny punctures help plasma penetrate for overall skin rejuvenation.
- PRP + Laser: Applied after Pico, Nd:YAG, or Fraxel to boost recovery and pigment fading.
Protocol: Usually 3–4 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Maintenance every 6–12 months is common.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Redness, mild swelling, or tingling.
1–3 Days: Slight flaking, skin tightness, or dryness.
1 Week: Glow, improved hydration, and subtle brightening.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
- Use gentle moisturizers and barrier serums.
- Avoid harsh actives (retinoids, AHAs, BHAs) for 3–5 days.
- Stay hydrated and avoid heavy sun exposure or saunas for a few days.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Subtle glow, hydration, and brightness.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Fading of PIH, improved texture, smoother skin.
- After 3–4 Sessions: Noticeable collagen boost, reduced pigmentation, rejuvenated skin.
- Long-Term: Lasts 9–12 months; periodic maintenance helps sustain results.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Assessment
- Skin analysis for PIH, acne scars, and texture issues.
- Custom plan often combining PRP with lasers or boosters.
Preparation
- Small blood sample (10–20 ml) taken and spun in a centrifuge.
- Numbing cream applied if injections/microneedling are used.
PRP Session
- Step 1: Plasma extracted and prepared.
- Step 2: Applied via microneedling or microinjections.
- Step 3: Optional add-on (laser or booster treatment).
- Session duration: 30–45 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
- Cooling mask or regenerative serum applied.
- Sun protection emphasized before discharge.
Follow-Up
- 3–4 sessions typically recommended.
- Often combined with skin boosters, Pico/Nd:YAG, or whitening drips for stronger outcomes.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Combination Therapy Culture: PRP often packaged with lasers, boosters, or exosomes.
- Skin-Specific Protocols: Customized for Asian skin to minimize PIH risk.
- Advanced Technology: Clinics use high-quality centrifuges and microneedling systems.
- Affordable Multi-Session Packages: Lower cost compared to Western clinics.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Session: USD 250 – 500
- 3–4 Session Package: USD 800 – 1,500
- Premium Program (PRP + Lasers/Boosters): USD 1,500 – 2,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Whitening drips (Glutathione/Vit C): USD 100 – 200
- Skin boosters (Rejuran, PN, exosomes): USD 200 – 500
- Post-care kits: USD 50 – 100
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic PRP Skin Renewal (3 sessions): USD 700–1,000
- PRP + Laser Brightening Program: USD 1,200–1,600
- Premium PRP Regeneration (PRP + Fraxel/Pico + Boosters): USD 2,000–3,000
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: PRP + Nd:YAG for acne PIH.
- Banobagi Dermatology: PRP + Pico for pigmentation + rejuvenation.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: PRP microneedling + skin boosters.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: PRP + Fraxel for scars + pigmentation.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium PRP programs with exosomes and anti-aging boosters.
