PRP

When Your Skin or Hair Just Isn't Bouncing Back

Maybe it's the fine lines that seem to have settled in a little deeper this year. Maybe it's a hairline that feels thinner than it used to, or under-eye hollows that make you look tired even when you're not. Idaho's dry climate, high-altitude sun exposure, and four distinct seasons can all take a toll on skin's texture and resilience over time.

Many patients come to Treasure Valley Dermatology looking for an option that works with their body rather than masking the issue. PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy is one of the ways our providers help patients support their skin's own natural processes.

What PRP Is

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is a treatment derived from your own blood. A small sample is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets and growth factors that support your skin's natural repair and renewal.

• A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, similar to routine bloodwork
• The sample is spun in a specialized centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets
• The resulting PRP is injected into targeted areas of the face or scalp, or applied to the skin during microneedling
• Because it comes from your own body, there is no risk of allergic reaction to a foreign substance
• Often combined with microneedling (SkinPen) or used alongside filler for a comprehensive approach
• Commonly used for facial rejuvenation, under-eye hollows, and hair thinning or shedding

What to Expect

• Consultation: A member of our aesthetic team reviews your skin or scalp concerns and discusses whether PRP is a good fit
• Blood draw: A quick, in-office draw, similar to a lab visit
• Processing time: Your blood is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, which takes a matter of minutes while you relax in the treatment room
• Application: A topical numbing agent is typically applied before injection or microneedling to keep the experience well-tolerated
• Session length: Most appointments take between 45 minutes and an hour, start to finish
• Downtime: Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the treatment site is common and usually resolves within a few days
• Series recommended: Many patients benefit from a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart, particularly for hair restoration

What Results Can Look Like

Because PRP works with your body's own healing response, results tend to build gradually rather than appear overnight. Many patients find that skin texture and tone can look more refreshed over the weeks following treatment, as the growth factors support collagen activity.

• Initial changes may become noticeable within 3 to 4 weeks
• Continued improvement is often reported over 2 to 3 months as collagen remodeling progresses
• For hair restoration, many patients report a series of monthly treatments before shedding slows and thickness improves
• Results vary from patient to patient depending on skin condition, age, and treatment area
• Maintenance sessions may be recommended to help sustain progress over time

Who PRP Is For

• Adults noticing fine lines, dullness, or loss of skin firmness who want a natural-origin option
• Patients dealing with under-eye hollowing or thinning skin around the eyes
• Men and women experiencing early to moderate hair thinning or shedding
• Patients who want to complement microneedling or filler treatments for a more comprehensive care plan
• Anyone who prefers a treatment derived from their own blood rather than a synthetic filler
• Adults in generally good health, typically 18 and older, without certain blood or clotting disorders

Not sure if you're a candidate? A member of our aesthetic team will review your health history and skin goals at your consultation to help determine if PRP is the right approach for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PRP treatment painful?

Most patients describe the experience as well-tolerated, especially with the topical numbing agent applied beforehand. Some mild discomfort during injection or microneedling is normal, similar to other minimally invasive cosmetic treatments.

What is PRP made from?

PRP is made from your own blood. A small sample is drawn and processed in-office to concentrate the platelets and growth factors, so there is no foreign substance involved and no risk of an allergic reaction.

Can PRP be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Many patients pair PRP with SkinPen microneedling or Radiesse filler as part of a broader cosmetic care plan. Your provider can help design a combination approach based on your goals.

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your treatment goals. Facial rejuvenation often involves a single session or a short series, while hair restoration typically benefits from a monthly series over several months, discussed in detail during your consultation.

Is there any downtime after treatment?

Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Some mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the treatment site is common and generally resolves within a few days.

Why Treasure Valley Dermatology

• Dr. Dustin Portela, DO, Dr. Kelsey Ferrell, DO, and Dr. Ben Buttars, DO, are board-certified dermatologists offering cosmetic and medical dermatology under one roof
• TVD's providers are board-certified dermatologists and experts in skin cancer surgery, reflecting a depth of surgical and dermatologic skill that carries into every treatment offered
• Over 700 five-star reviews reflect a practice culture patients describe as attentive, warm, and thorough, "a breath of fresh air" even on the busiest days
• PRP, SkinPen microneedling, Radiesse filler, and other advanced cosmetic treatments are available on-site at both the Boise and Meridian locations
• Full-family care means the same trusted team can treat everyone from teenagers with acne to parents seeking cosmetic refreshment
• Patients consistently describe the team as "committed to identifying the underlying causes" of their skin concerns, not just applying a quick fix

Ready to Talk About PRP?

If you're curious whether PRP is right for your skin or hair goals, the team at Treasure Valley Dermatology is ready to help you build a care plan that fits. Our providers see patients at both the Boise and Meridian locations, making it easy to find an appointment time that works for your schedule.

Schedule your consultation today at dermatologyboise.com/schedule-an-appointment and take the next step toward skin and hair that feel more like you.