Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: Why PRP is the preferred treatment option over mesotherapy
Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH), commonly known as dark circles under the eyes, is a prevalent cosmetic concern that affects many individuals in Cape Town and around the world. This condition can significantly impact a person's appearance and self-confidence. Dermatologists often encounter patients seeking effective solutions for this stubborn issue. While there are various treatments available, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a particularly effective and preferable option for many patients.
Understanding Periorbital Hyperpigmentation
Before diving into the treatments, it's essential to understand what periorbital hyperpigmentation is and what causes it. Periorbital hyperpigmentationis characterized by dark discoloration of the skin around the eyes, giving an appearance of tiredness or aging. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:
Genetics
Sun exposure
Allergies
Lack of sleep
Dehydration
Aging
Certain medical conditions
Given its multifactorial nature, treating POH often requires a comprehensive approach. This is where advanced treatments like PRP come into play.
Why PRP therapy is preferred for periorbital hyperpigmentation
PRP therapy has gained significant attention in the field of cosmetic dermatology, and for good reason. Here's why it's often recommended over other treatments:
Natural and Autologous: PRP uses the patient's own blood, making it a completely natural treatment. This significantly reduces the risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
Growth Factor Rich: PRP is packed with growth factors that stimulate collagen production, improve blood circulation, and promote tissue regeneration.
Versatile: PRP can address multiple aspects of periorbital hyperpigmentation, including skin thickness, texture, and pigmentation.
Minimal Side Effects: Since PRP is derived from the patient's own blood, side effects are minimal and typically limited to mild swelling or bruising.
Long-lasting Results: Many patients experience long-lasting improvements with PRP treatment.
How PRP Works
A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient.
The blood is then centrifuged to separate the platelet-rich plasma.
This concentrated plasma, rich in growth factors, is then injected into the periorbital area.
PRP stimulates collagen production, improves blood circulation, and promotes tissue regeneration. These effects can help reduce the appearance of dark circles and improve skin texture and tone in the under-eye area.
Comparing PRP with other treatments
While PRP is often preferred, it's important to understand how it compares to other treatments, such as Mesotherapy with tranexamic acid and vitamin C.
Mesotherapy for periorbital hyperpigmentation
Mesotherapy involves injecting a cocktail of beneficial substances directly into the mesoderm (middle layer of skin) to treat various cosmetic issues. For POH treatment, a combination of tranexamic acid and vitamin C is often used:
Tranexamic acid: This compound helps reduce melanin production, addressing the hyperpigmentation aspect of dark circles.
Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant, vitamin C brightens the skin and promotes collagen production.
While mesotherapy can be effective, it often requires more frequent treatments and carries a risk of allergic reaction due to the introduction of external substances.
Recent Research Insights
A recent study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology by Iranmanesh et al. compared the efficacy of PRP injections with tranexamic acid plus vitamin C mesotherapy for treating POH. The study found that both treatments showed significant improvements, with PRP having slightly higher patient satisfaction.
These findings support the preference for PRP, especially considering its natural origin and reduced risk of allergic reactions.
Choosing PRP Treatment
While PRP is often recommended, the choice of treatment may depend on various factors:
Skin Type: PRP is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile option.
Underlying Cause: PRP can address multiple causes of POH, from skin thinning to pigmentation issues.
Personal Preference: Many patients prefer PRP due to its natural, autologous nature.
Treatment Schedule: PRP typically requires fewer sessions compared to other treatments.
At Panorama Dermatology Clinic, Dr Louw can assess your specific case and discuss whether PRP is the best option for you.
What to Expect During PRP Treatment
If you choose PRP treatment for your POH, here's what you can generally expect:
Consultation: A dermatologist will assess your POH and discuss your medical history.
Blood Draw: A small sample of your blood will be taken.
PRP Preparation: Your blood will be processed to extract the platelet-rich plasma.
Treatment: The PRP will be injected into the periorbital area using fine needles or applied via microneedling.
Post-treatment: You may experience mild swelling or bruising, which typically subsides within a few days.
Follow-up: Multiple sessions are usually recommended for optimal results, though often fewer than with other treatments.
Complementary Treatments and Skincare
To enhance the effects of PRP, consider these complementary approaches:
Sun Protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to prevent further pigmentation.
Topical Treatments: Gentle, non-irritating products may be recommended to maintain results.
Healthy Lifestyle: Adequate sleep, hydration, and a balanced diet can improve overall skin health.
Conclusion
While there are several treatment options for periorbital hyperpigmentation, PRP therapy is often preferred due to its natural origin, effectiveness, and reduced risk of allergic reactions. PRP harnesses the body's own healing capabilities to improve the appearance of dark circles and rejuvenate the delicate under-eye area. PRP therapy represents an exciting advancement in the treatment of periorbital hyperpigmentation, providing natural-looking and long-lasting results.
If you're struggling with periorbital hyperpigmentation, consider consulting with a dermatologist about PRP treatment. Panorama Dermatology Clinic offers expert guidance to help you achieve brighter, more youthful-looking eyes using the power of your own platelets.
Remember, everyone's skin is unique, and what works best for one person may not be the optimal solution for another. That's why personalized treatment plans and expert guidance are crucial in addressing periorbital hyperpigmentation effectively.
Reference
Iranmanesh, B., Rastaghi, F., Hashemi, N. S., & Kaveh, R. (2024). Comparison of the Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Tranexamic Acid Plus Vitamin C Mesotherapy in the Treatment of Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: A Split-Site, Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 0, 1-6. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16548
