PRP Facial Before and After: What One Treatment Looks Like

Medically Reviewed by the Clinical Team at Eternity WellnessEternity Wellness is a Louisville, KY-based integrative wellness and aesthetics practice. Our clinical team provides PRP microneedling, PRF treatments, and a full range of advanced skin services with a focus on personalized, evidence-informed care.
PRP facials use platelet-rich plasma, drawn from your own blood and concentrated through centrifuge processing, to deliver growth factors directly into the skin. Those growth factors trigger a repair response: collagen production increases, cell turnover speeds up, and the surface gradually improves in texture, tone, and firmness.
If you've been wondering what PRP facial before and after results actually look like, this guide walks through the full picture from your first appointment through the four-to-six-week mark when results are typically at their peak.

What Is a PRP Facial?
A PRP facial combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma derived from your own blood. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, creates controlled micro-channels in the skin using fine needles, triggering the body's natural wound-healing cascade. Platelet-rich plasma, processed from a small blood draw and spun in a centrifuge to concentrate growth factors, is then applied to those open channels where it can absorb into deeper layers of the skin.
The logic of the combination is well-studied. Microneedling on its own stimulates collagen and elastin through the controlled injury response. Adding platelet-rich plasma amplifies that process by delivering a concentrated dose of growth factors, including PDGF, TGF-β, and VEGF, directly into the wound channels.
Research context: A 2018 study by Hausauer & Jones published in Dermatologic Surgery found that combining PRP with microneedling produced significantly greater improvements in skin texture and patient satisfaction scores compared to microneedling alone. A 2020 study by Gawdat et al. in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology similarly reported superior collagen remodeling outcomes with the combined approach.
At Eternity Wellness, PRP microneedling is offered as part of a full range of advanced skin treatments. The clinic also offers PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), a next-generation approach that processes blood without anticoagulants, producing a slower-release growth factor gel with a higher fibrin matrix concentration.
Explore PRP microneedling in Louisville KY and the PRF natural filler treatment at Eternity Wellness to see both options.
What Does a PRP Facial Treatment Involve?
Here's what a typical PRP facial appointment looks like from start to finish:
|
Step |
What Happens |
Approx. Time |
|
1. Blood draw |
A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, similar to a routine lab draw. |
5-10 min |
|
2. Centrifuge processing |
Blood is spun to separate and concentrate the platelet-rich plasma. |
10-15 min |
|
3. Numbing |
Topical numbing cream is applied to keep the treatment comfortable. |
20-30 min |
|
4. Microneedling |
The device creates controlled micro-channels across the treatment area. |
15-30 min |
|
5. PRP application |
Concentrated plasma is applied and absorbed through the open channels. |
5-10 min |
|
6. Recovery guidance |
Your provider reviews aftercare steps and what to expect over the next 5 days. |
5 min |
Total appointment time typically runs 60-90 minutes. Most patients tolerate the treatment well with numbing in place. Some redness and warmth during the procedure is normal.
What Do PRP Facial Before and After Results Look Like?
Results vary based on your skin, starting condition, and the concerns being targeted. That said, the timeline for most patients follows a consistent pattern.
Immediately After Treatment
Right after a PRP facial, skin typically looks flushed and feels warm, similar to a mild sunburn. Some patients notice small areas of pinpoint redness at the microneedling sites. Swelling can also be present, particularly around the eyes or in areas with thinner skin. Most of this settles within 24-48 hours.
Days 1-3: The Repair Window
Skin may look slightly red or feel tight. Some patients experience mild peeling or flaking as collagen induction therapy triggers the skin's repair process. This is cell turnover at work, not damage. Most providers recommend avoiding active ingredients like retinoids and strong acids during this window, and SPF every morning is essential.
Days 4-7: Early Improvements
For most patients, redness fades and the skin starts to look and feel cleaner. Texture improvements often become noticeable here. Rough patches and uneven areas start to smooth out, and pores may appear smaller as post-treatment inflammation settles.
Weeks 2-4: The Collagen Response
This is where more meaningful changes tend to appear. Collagen stimulation from microneedling takes time to produce visible surface results, and by weeks two to four, many patients notice improved firmness, more even skin tone, and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines. The full benefit of a single treatment is generally visible around the four-to-six-week mark.
Research context: A 2017 study by Cameli et al. in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy documented measurable increases in collagen and elastin fiber density at 30 and 60 days post-PRP treatment, consistent with the 4-6 week peak-result window reported by most practitioners.

|
Timeframe |
What Most Patients Notice |
|
Immediately after |
Redness, warmth, mild swelling. Skin looks flushed. |
|
Days 1-3 |
Continued redness, possible tightness or mild peeling. Skin is actively repairing. |
|
Days 4-7 |
Redness fades. Texture starts to improve. Pores look cleaner. |
|
Weeks 2-4 |
Collagen response kicks in. Improved firmness, tone, and fine line reduction. |
|
4-6 weeks |
Full results from one treatment visible for most patients. |
What Affects Your PRP Facial Results?
Not all PRP facials produce identical results, and understanding the variables helps set realistic expectations going in.
Platelet concentration: PRP quality depends on your own platelet count and how the blood is processed. Higher platelet concentration generally means more growth factors delivered to the skin. Some providers run two centrifuge passes to increase concentration.
Microneedling depth: Treatment depth is adjusted based on the area being treated and the concern. Shallower depths suit sensitive zones and surface texture; deeper settings are used for scarring and volume concerns. Depth directly influences how much collagen induction occurs.
Number of sessions: A single treatment produces real but incremental results. Most providers recommend a series of two to three sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, for more substantial improvement in scarring, pigmentation, or significant texture concerns.
Skin condition going in: Patients with active acne, rosacea flares, open wounds, or certain skin infections are typically not candidates for treatment at that time. Healthier baseline skin generally responds more quickly and visibly.
Aftercare compliance: Skipping SPF, using active ingredients too early, or not following provider instructions can slow healing and reduce how much of the collagen response translates into visible improvement.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a PRP Facial?
PRP facials suit a wide range of skin types and concerns, but they're not right for everyone. Here's a quick guide:
|
Generally a Good Fit |
Typically Not a Candidate |
|
Adults with uneven skin texture or tone |
Active acne, rosacea flares, or open skin infections |
|
Patients with fine lines or early signs of aging |
Patients on blood thinners or with platelet disorders |
|
Those with mild-to-moderate acne scarring |
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients (consult provider) |
|
Anyone wanting to improve skin quality without fillers |
Patients with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring |
|
Patients who have responded well to microneedling alone |
Certain autoimmune conditions — provider assessment required |
A consultation is the most reliable way to know whether PRP microneedling is right for your skin. Your provider will review your medical history, current skincare routine, and treatment goals before recommending a protocol.
PRP vs PRF: What's the Difference and Which Should You Choose?
Both treatments use your own blood, but PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) are processed differently, and that distinction affects how they work on the skin.
|
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) |
PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) |
|
|
Processing |
Single centrifuge spin; anticoagulant added |
Slower spin, no anticoagulant; natural clotting preserved |
|
Consistency |
Liquid plasma |
Gel-like fibrin matrix |
|
Growth factor release |
Rapid release |
Slower, sustained release over days |
|
Platelet concentration |
Standard concentration |
Generally higher concentration |
|
Best used for |
PRP microneedling (topical application) |
Injectable filler, under-eye, volume loss |
|
At Eternity Wellness |
Available via PRP microneedling |
Available as PRF Natural Filler |
For facial skin rejuvenation and texture improvement, PRP microneedling is the typical starting point. PRF is often used when there's also volume loss to address, such as under the eyes or in the mid-face, because its gel consistency makes it suitable for injection as a natural filler.
Learn more about the PRF natural filler treatment at Eternity Wellness, or compare it alongside other professional facial treatments to find the right fit.
What Are the Benefits of a PRP Facial?
PRP facials address a range of skin quality concerns through a single treatment protocol. The most common reasons patients book:
- Uneven skin texture: collagen induction therapy physically resurfaces while platelet-rich plasma accelerates cell renewal
- Fine lines and early wrinkles: collagen stimulation from both components firms the skin gradually over the weeks following treatment
- Acne scarring: consistent sessions can soften the appearance of rolling and shallow scars
- Enlarged pores: improved tone and tightness can reduce pore visibility
- Dull or tired-looking skin: growth factors support more even pigmentation and a brighter surface
Results from a single treatment are real but build gradually. Most providers recommend a series of two to three sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, for more meaningful long-term improvement.
How Much Does a PRP Facial Cost?
PRP facial pricing varies depending on the provider, location, and whether additional treatments are combined in the session. Because the treatment involves both microneedling and a blood draw with centrifuge processing, it typically falls in a higher range than a standard facial or basic microneedling session.
Pricing at Eternity Wellness is best confirmed through a consultation, where your provider can assess the right protocol and number of sessions for your goals.
About Eternity Wellness
Eternity Wellness is located at 1220 E. Kentucky Street, Louisville, KY 40204. The practice offers PRP microneedling, PRF natural filler, HydraFacial, microneedling, Botox, Dysport, dermal fillers, and a full range of integrative wellness and aesthetic services. Every treatment begins with a provider consultation and is tailored to the individual patient.
Treatment recommendations, protocols, and suitability vary by individual. A consultation helps determine the right approach for your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PRP facial?
A PRP facial combines microneedling (collagen induction therapy) with platelet-rich plasma drawn from your own blood. The microneedling creates micro-channels in the skin, and the platelet-rich plasma is applied through those channels to support collagen production and skin renewal. It's used to improve texture, tone, fine lines, and the appearance of scarring.
What is PRP facial treatment?
PRP facial treatment involves drawing a small amount of blood, processing it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelet-rich plasma, and applying that plasma to the skin during or after microneedling. The combined treatment stimulates the skin's repair process and delivers growth factors that support collagen remodeling.
How much does a PRP facial cost?
PRP facial pricing varies by provider, location, and protocol. Because the session involves both microneedling and blood processing, it typically costs more than a standalone facial. A consultation at Eternity Wellness will give you an accurate estimate based on your skin goals.
How much is a PRP facial?
Pricing depends on the provider, treatment area, and whether PRP or PRF is used. A consultation is the best way to understand what to expect for your specific situation and goals.
Ready to find out if PRP microneedling is right for your skin? PRP microneedling in Louisville KY is available at Eternity Wellness, along with PRF natural filler treatments for patients looking for the next-generation option.
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