01
Nov
Rejuvenate Your Skin With Microneedling and PRP
As you age, time leaves its mark on your skin in the form of wrinkles, fine lines, and droopy skin. And in sunny California, the added sun exposure that kisses our skin also creates dark spots and sun damage.
At Apex Dermatology, located in Westlake Village, California, our goal is to help you achieve optimal skin health with state-of-the-art treatments and services. Dr. Karin Harp, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Eva Hurst PA-C, and Lani Keene LME, and our compassionate staff understand the challenge aging skin brings and the best ways to fight back.
There’s good news for those hoping to reverse these signs of aging and even to prevent the signs of aging for those who wish to rejuvenate. The struggle against aging skin is now easier thanks to two tools that rejuvenate your skin without the need for invasive surgery — microneedling and PRP therapy.
That’s why our office offers microneedling with PRP. This effective treatment combination rejuvenates your skin and prompts your own healing capabilities for rejuvenated, younger-looking skin that lasts.
Read on to learn more about how microneedling with PRP can rejuvenate your skin.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling refers to a process that pushes tiny needles into the outer layer of your skin. While these microscopic pricks are too superficial to cause bleeding, they do create minuscule wounds on the surface of your skin.
When your skin is wounded, signals are sent to increase collagen production. Collagen is the key component in new cell growth, and as new skin forms on the surface of your face it erases sun damage, reduces scarring, and smoothes away fine lines and wrinkles.
The result? A smoother, brighter, firmer complexion. And because collagen production operates using the domino effect, the more collagen you have, the more you continue to produce, helping your results last longer.
What is PRP?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, therapy is a revolutionary treatment that uses your own platelets to boost healing and new cell production. Platelets are the cells that hold important nutrients and growth factors to stimulate new cell growth.
When you have PRP, an adjacent labs at Apex Dermatology draws a small amount of your blood and uses a centrifuge and very special vials to separate the platelets and create a plasma. Via this special process, your fresh platelets will spill their multitude of natural growth factors into that serum layer. Your provider then injects this highly concentrated solution of platelets into your skin to promote new cell growth.
How can microneedling with PRP help my skin?
PRP augments the effects of microneedling by further increasing collagen production and maximizing the effects of treatment. PRP also increases the speed of your natural healing process that microneedling and fractional laser treatments trigger, meaning you’ll see results faster.
This combined treatment also helps you:
1. Say hello to smoother, firmer skin
As you get older, your skin’s elasticity diminishes, making it less and less likely to move back into place after you smile or frown. That’s when fine lines and wrinkles appear. Since microneedling and PRP increase collagen production, your skin becomes smoother and firmer.
2. Say goodbye to sun damage
Skin damage and photoaging, or an increased aging process, happen as UV rays from the sun hit your skin, something that’s hard to avoid in sunny California. Microneedling with PRP fights back against the effects of the sun, giving you clearer, more even skin.
3. Scars become a thing of the past
No one enjoys looking at recent or decades-old acne scars. Microneedling with PRP can fill in the scars as your natural collagen production improves skin texture. This is great news if you have darker skin since, unlike other treatment options, microneedling with PRP works with all skin tones.
4. No more pigment problems
When melanin, or skin pigment, is distributed unevenly across your skin, you end up with hyperpigmentation or areas of darker skin. Because microneedling with PRP replaces the outer layer of skin, your new complexion will find improvement from pigment problems. This treatment can also be combined with our top of the line skin products to improve tone and reduce discoloration.
5. Results that last and last
Microneedling with PRP increases collagen production helping your results last longer than topical treatments. With this combined powerhouse, your rejuvenated skin looks younger, longer. Your skin still ages, so booster treatments over time are recommended.
Can I combine the power of PRP with other treatments?
Yes! It’s possible to combine PRP with other treatments we offer. For example, you can add PRP to Clear + Brilliant Laser treatments. This safe, nonsurgical treatment improves skin tone and texture, making your skin radiant and youthful. PRP boosts its effects and helps your skin heal faster. You can also add PRP to other services, like the Fraxel Dual Laser, a fantastic option for skin resurfacing, Fractional Erbium rejuvenation and the Juliet treatment, a groundbreaking method for vaginal revitalization.
Ready to learn more about rejuvenating your skin with microneedling and PRP?
If you’re ready to rejuvenate or prejuvenate your skin in time for the holiday season, don’t wait. Contact our office or request an appointment online today!
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.