Autologous blood therapy
Autologous blood therapy uses the body’s own blood to regenerate the skin, with a particular focus on platelet-rich plasma (PRP), as well as techniques such as PRF and ACP.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
The use of the body’s own resources for regeneration and rejuvenation is one of the strongest trends in modern aesthetic medicine. The focus here is particularly on PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy using the patient’s own blood; alongside which there are other autologous blood procedures such as PRF or ACP. Having gained popularity through the striking name „vampire facelift“, this method promises a natural improvement in the skin and a strengthening of the hair follicles.
But what exactly do these terms mean, how does the procedure work, and what can it really achieve? In this glossary entry, we provide a thorough and objective explanation of the science behind autologous blood therapy and offer a realistic assessment of its potential and limitations.
Definition: What is autologous blood therapy (PRP)?
Autologous blood therapy in aesthetic medicine is a regenerative procedure that utilises platelet-rich plasma (PRP). PRP is a highly concentrated component derived from the patient’s own blood. It is rich in thrombocytes (blood platelets), proteins and, above all, growth factors.
These growth factors are the active ingredients themselves: when injected directly into the skin or scalp, they can stimulate cell renewal, collagen production and the regeneration of tissue such as hair follicles.
How is PRP extracted?
- Blood sampling: A small amount of blood is taken from the patient’s arm vein.
- Centrifugation: The blood is placed in a special tube and put into a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins the blood and, using centrifugal force, separates the heavier red blood cells from the lighter, golden-yellow blood plasma.
- Extraction: The doctor draws up the upper portion of the plasma – rich in platelets and growth factors – known as PRP, into a fine syringe. This concentrate is now ready for use.
Application 1: Skin rejuvenation (vampire facelift)
In the skin, PRP acts as a biological „wake-up call“ for the cells. It is a biostimulating treatment, not a filler treatment.
Effect
The growth factors released stimulate the fibroblasts (connective tissue cells) to produce more collagen and elastin. Over a period of weeks, this results in firmer, more supple and more radiant skin.
Areas of application
Fine lines, a tired complexion, dull skin, acne scars, improvement in overall skin texture.
Method
The PRP is either injected directly into the skin (similar to mesotherapy) or – and this is the most common method used in the so-called ‘vampire facelift’ – applied to the skin in combination with microneedling. The microchannels created by the microneedling allow the PRP to penetrate deep into the skin.
Application 2: Treatment of hair loss
In the treatment of hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia), PRP therapy targets the hair roots (hair follicles) directly.
Effect
The growth factors injected into the scalp can improve microcirculation around the hair follicles, increase the supply of nutrients and reactivate under-nourished but still viable hair follicles. The aim is to To slow down hair loss and to strengthen hair that has become thinner.
Important limitation
PRP therapy can only be effective where hair follicles are still intact. New hair cannot grow on a completely bald patch.
PRP, Vampire Facelift & PRF: What’s the difference?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different things.
- PRP (platelet-rich plasma): This is the active ingredient – the processed blood concentrate.
- Vampire facelift: This is the name of a cosmetic facial treatment that usually combines microneedling and PRP.
- PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin): This is a further development of PRP. It is centrifuged differently (more slowly, without anticoagulants) and, in addition to growth factors, contains fibrin, white blood cells and other cells that form a biological scaffold and prolong the release of the growth factors; the possible presence of stem cells is under discussion, but its significance has not yet been conclusively established. Special plasma gels, known as ‘biofillers’, can be produced using PRF.
Safety in autologous blood therapy
- Hygiene is everything: The most important thing is to maintain absolutely sterile working practices during blood collection, preparation and injection. Poor hygiene poses a serious risk of Infections.
- Common side effects: As with any injection, slight swelling, redness and small bruises (Haematomas) may occur, but these subside after a few days.
- User qualifications: The treatment should only be carried out by qualified doctors or alternative practitioners who have experience with the procedure.
- Contraindications: People with blood clotting disorders, autoimmune diseases, active infections and cancer should not undergo treatment. During pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding, PRP treatment should only be carried out after a careful medical assessment of the risks; many practitioners choose not to perform the treatment at all during this period as a precaution.
If, despite all precautions, a complication requiring treatment – such as a serious infection – should arise, you will often have to bear the costs of the medical treatment yourself. Taking out insurance to cover follow-up costs before treatment begins protects you from these unexpected financial burdens.
How much does a PRP treatment cost?
Facial treatment (vampire facelift)
Approx. €300–€600 per session. Three sessions at four-week intervals are often recommended.
Treatment of hair loss
Approx. €400 – €800 per session. To begin with, 4–6 sessions at four-week intervals are often required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on autohaemotherapy
Having blood taken involves a quick prick. Injections into the skin or scalp can be uncomfortable. For this reason, the areas are usually treated with an anaesthetic cream beforehand.
As PRP stimulates the body’s own regenerative processes, the results are not immediately visible. With skin treatments, the first improvements in texture become apparent after a few weeks, and the final result is visible after around 3 months. In cases of hair loss, it can take 3–6 months before a reduction in hair loss and increased hair density become visible.
Following a course of several sessions, the results of skin rejuvenation last for around 12 months. In the case of hair loss, regular maintenance treatments (e.g. every 6–12 months) are necessary to maintain the results.
The scientific evidence is promising, but not always conclusive. Its effectiveness in improving skin quality and slowing hair loss has been well established. However, it is not a miracle cure for deep wrinkles or complete baldness.
Yes. After a scalp treatment, you’ll be ready to go out in public straight away. After a ‘vampire facelift’, the skin will be red and slightly swollen for 1–2 days, much like a sunburn.