Is Dermapen/Micro-needling more effective when combined with PRP? (Photo)

We've been performing microneedling with PRP for the past year and I've seen surprising results in terms of acne scarring and overall improvement in skin texture and pigmentation. Some of the most impressive results have been in patients who have already been treated with the gold standard laser resurfacing, chemical peels and dermabrasion. I do think that PRP is oversold in some circles as a miracle cure and the data is not there yet, as Dr. Ibrahimi suggested. However, I definitely think that this treatment is effective for many people with acne scarring. I hope this information is helpful for you.Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Hi Sarah. The trouble we have with PRP is that there is no research to support that it helps.  Yes, it is FDA approved to aid in the healing of joints after reconstructive surgery, but that has not been extrapolated to the face with any clinical research.  So, we discount any benefit of this product and in most cases what you see is a very short term improvement because fo the volume of liquid that is placed into the skin.  We are also not big fans of the dermaroller or microneedling.  The challenge with these procedures is that they cannot remove scar tissue, but rather they pry it open a bit, only to have it close right up again.  In contrast, laser resurfacing vaporizes scar tissue by creating microscopic perforations in the skin.  These small perforations are then filled with new collagen, creating a smoother appearance.  We'd say stick with a laser combo, but if you choose dermapen, forego the PRP.  

I have seen amazing results using Biopelle with dermapen. Until I see a head to head comparison between Biopelle and prp, I'm not going to tell my patients it's worth the added cost..

I have seen amazing results with PRP microneedling especially for acne and acne scars.  It's best to perform at least 3 sessions for optimal results.  I think PRP is the key ingredient, not just microneedling pen.  It's the special ingredients in one's blood, namely the factors, stem cells, growth factors, and collagen boosters naturally found in blood that really works to restructure the scars and prevent new acne from forming. 
Hope this helps,
Yazdani, MD

Thank you for your question. In my opinion, adding PRP or platelet rich plasma to microneedling is a great adjunct in treating acne scars. You might need more than one treatment to achieve a desired outcome.
I hope this helps. Best wishes. Dr. Salameh (Plastic surgeon - Bowling Green, KY)

Acne scars are a result of severe inflammation (sometimes worsened by picking) of acne lesions. The area that needs to be treated is in the deep dermis of the skin. The gold standard in treating acne scars is using fractional lasers to stimulate collagen remodeling. The micro-needling pen in my opinion does not do the same thing as fractional lasers (even though many claim it does). The laser provides thermal stimulation and stimulates remodeling whereas the microneedling just pokes holes into the skin and does not provide thermal stimulation.The scientific evidence for PRP in acne scars is very limited. Its more of a buzz phrase that is popular but I don't think there are any well done studies that support its use.My advice is to make sure you have consulted with a reputable dermatologist (or two) with expertise in the treatment of acne scars rather than a medical spa. Remember you are doing a procedure to treat your skin, so stick to the experts for the skin.