PRP

Service Description

WHAT IT IS PRP (platelet-rich plasma) at Dr Selvi Clinic in Brighton uses a concentrate prepared from a small sample of your own blood. It is injected into the skin or scalp, or applied with medical microneedling, to support skin quality and texture, or as part of a plan for early hair thinning. The blood sample is taken from the arm, much like a routine blood test, and spun in a centrifuge to separate a layer rich in platelets. Platelets release growth factors involved in the body's normal repair processes, which is the rationale for placing them where skin or hair needs support. Because PRP is made from your own blood, there is no external product to react to. Dr Selvi may also discuss PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), a related preparation. WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE IT PRP has a longer track record than newer regenerative options such as polynucleotides and exosome products, and many people like that it uses their own blood rather than a manufactured product. It can be used on its own or combined with microneedling for texture and scarring. WHAT WE AIM FOR For skin: gradual improvement in texture, tone and elasticity. For hair, in early to moderate pattern thinning: slower shedding, thicker existing hairs and a modest improvement in density where follicles are still active. Results depend partly on your own platelets and vary between individuals. WHO IT SUITS · Dull, tired skin with fine lines or uneven texture · Acne scarring, often combined with microneedling · Skin quality on the neck and hands · Early to moderate pattern hair thinning, once the cause is diagnosed · Preferring a treatment made from your own blood TREATMENT DETAILS Appointment: 45–60 minutes Blood sample: A small sample from the arm Preparation: Spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich layer Numbing: Topical numbing cream Delivery: Small injections into the skin or scalp, or applied with microneedling Downtime: Redness and mild swelling for 24–48 hours; pinpoint marks and occasional bruising Scalp aftercare: No hair washing for 24 hours; no gym, sauna or swimming for 48 hours First changes: Skin — gradual over weeks to months; hair — assessed at around three to four months Course: Planned at consultation, with maintenance agreed at review FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Is PRP painful? The area is numbed with cream and a fine needle is used. Most patients describe pressure and brief stinging. After scalp treatment the scalp can feel tender for a day or two. How soon will I see results? For skin, early changes may appear within a few weeks, with improvement continuing over two to three months as collagen remodels. For hair, change is judged from about three months, using clinic photographs at review. Does PRP work for hair loss? For early to moderate pattern hair loss, published trials show improvement in hair thickness and density in many patients, with a smaller group who respond little. It works less well for advanced loss and does not help shedding caused by illness, iron deficiency or thyroid problems, which is why diagnosis comes first. When treatment stops, gradual thinning resumes. Do I need blood tests before hair treatment? Often, particularly for sudden shedding or where the history suggests a nutritional or thyroid cause. Dr Selvi advises which tests are relevant; these are usually arranged through your GP. Who should not have PRP? PRP is not offered to people with blood-clotting disorders, a low platelet count, active infection, certain blood-borne infections or active cancer, or during pregnancy. Tell Dr Selvi about blood-thinning medicines and any history of fainting during blood tests. What are the risks? Bruising, swelling and tenderness are common. After scalp treatment, a headache or a short-lived increase in shedding can occur. Infection is uncommon and is more likely if aftercare is not followed. Dr Selvi explains the risks before you consent. PRP, polynucleotides or exosomes? All three are regenerative rather than volumising. PRP uses your own blood and has the longest track record; polynucleotides are a purified injectable; exosome products are the newest. Dr Selvi explains which suits your concern. Who will treat me? All treatments at Dr Selvi Clinic are carried out by Dr Selvi, a doctor, after a face-to-face consultation and an assessment of your suitability. BOOKING Book online, or start with a free initial consultation if you are unsure whether PRP is right for your skin or hair. Dr Selvi Clinic is at 57B London Road, Brighton and Hove BN1 4JE, open 10:00–20:00, seven days a week; appointment times can vary. Fees are listed on our pricing page, and your plan and final fee are confirmed at consultation.