About PRP Treatment
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatment involves drawing a small amount of your blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma. This concentrated plasma is injected back into the treatment area — making it 100% your own blood product (autologous).
Platelets play a key role in healing. When injected, they trigger a controlled inflammatory response that stimulates a healing cascade: attracting stem cells, releasing growth factors, and promoting the development of new collagen and elastin. As the collagen matures, it tightens and strengthens the treated tissue.
PRP is not a filler. Any swelling immediately after treatment is from the injected plasma and will subside as the collagen stimulation process begins.
Post-treatment instructions
Follow these steps to support your recovery and results:
- Leave the PRP on the skin for at least 8 hours after treatment — do not wash or apply products to the treated area during this time.
- Makeup may be applied immediately after treatment if desired, but avoid scrubbing or rubbing the injection sites for at least 4 hours.
- From the evening of treatment onward, cleanse gently once to twice daily with a mild cleanser (e.g. Avène Tolerance Extremely Gentle Cleanser or similar). After several days, you may return to your regular skincare routine.
- From the morning after treatment, you may apply makeup, moisturiser, and other topical products approved by your clinician. Apply an SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
- Avoid exfoliants, glycolic acids, and other active ingredients until the skin has settled — these can cause excessive dryness after treatment.
- Use a clean pillowcase for 3 nights after treatment.
- Clean all makeup brushes, glasses, and anything else that will come into contact with your face.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, sweating, and direct heat sources (including blow dryers, saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, and very hot showers) until the morning after treatment.
- Do not take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, Advil, or Motrin after treatment — these interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is essential to your results. If you require pain relief, paracetamol is a suitable alternative.
What to expect after your treatment
The following are normal and expected immediately after PRP treatment:
- Redness at injection sites
- Swelling (from the injected plasma — this is temporary and will subside as collagen stimulation begins)
- Bruising
- Tenderness or mild discomfort
- Tingling or numbness
- Lumpiness or a feeling of pressure or fullness in the treated area
These effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few days. Cold gel packs or ice may be applied immediately after treatment to help reduce swelling.
Managing possible risks
Swelling Swelling after PRP is expected and is part of the treatment process — it reflects the plasma that has been injected and the initial healing response.
- Apply a cold gel pack or ice pack (wrapped in a clean cloth) for comfort as needed.
- Avoid heat and strenuous activity until the morning after treatment.
- Swelling should subside within a few days as the collagen stimulation process takes over.
Bruising Bruising is common after injectable treatment and does not affect your results.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications (NSAIDs, aspirin, vitamin E, ginseng) for one week before and after treatment unless medically necessary — discuss with your doctor or nurse first.
- Apply topical Arnica or Hirudoid cream to the affected area.
- We offer LED Light Therapy for more significant bruising not responding to home management.
Lumpiness or fullness A feeling of lumpiness, pressure, or fullness at injection sites is normal in the first few days after treatment.
- Do not massage the area unless specifically instructed by your clinician.
- This typically resolves as the plasma is absorbed and the healing response progresses.
When to contact us
If you have questions or concerns regarding your treatment, please contact Avery during business hours (call 02 4002 4150). If you have a concern out of business hours, please send an SMS to the out of hours Avery phone (0499 352 954); or visit your nearest emergency department. Your health and well-being is our priority.
Seek urgent care if you experience any of the following:
- Severe or worsening pain, swelling, or redness beyond the first few days
- Signs of infection (increasing warmth, pus-like discharge, or fever)
- Signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue)
- Any unexpected or worsening symptoms
If you would like to talk to your Clinician about your skin health journey so far, please book a complimentary 15-minute follow up consultation by calling the clinic on 02 4002 4150.
