The Natural Way to Rejuvenate Skin
Collagen Enhancing Medical Spa Treatments - Minimally Invasive Options for Radiant Skin
Written by Dr. Courtney Austin, MD
Collagen, the protein responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity, naturally declines with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Collagen production naturally declines starting in your 20s, decreasing by about 1 to 1.5 % per year. By age 40, collagen levels can be significantly reduced, causing age-related skin changes.
Using a patient's own cells to create new, healthier cells is a safe and effective way of improving skin texture, elasticity and to prevent progression of age-related skin changes. Fortunately, there are numerous treatments that help to boost collagen production, delivering youthful, radiant skin without any extensive downtime.
Several examples of minimally invasive treatments include microneedling, platelet rich plasma therapy, laser resurfacing, with laser such as Fraxel, Clear and Brilliant, and BBL, platelet-rich fibrin, and Ultherapy. Depending on your skin type, texture and the areas that you wish to improve, one or a combination of these modalities may be helpful in improving your body's ability to create natural collagen and improve skin quality.
All these therapies are readily available in a good-quality medical spa like Glacier Med Spa. It is essential to be sure your treatments are being administered by a qualified professional to ensure safe, personalized care for the best possible outcome.
Always remember that while medical spa treatments are helpful in rejuvenating collagen levels, avoidance of excessive UV exposure, quitting smoking, improving your diet and limiting exposure to environmental and oxidative stress are critical in maintaining glowing, healthy skin. A diet rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, bone broth for bioavailable collagen and amino acids, and high-protein foods help with natural collagen synthesis.
What are PRP and PRF, and how do they differ?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) are regenerative therapies created from a patient's own blood. PRP is spun at high speeds and remains in liquid form, offering an immediate boost of growth factors. PRF, spun slower and without additives, forms a fibrin matrix that delivers a slower, steady release of healing properties, resulting in longer-lasting rejuvenation.
What aesthetic benefits do PRP and PRF offer?
Both PRP and PRF naturally stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping to smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and refresh overall skin quality. PRP is popular for improving skin radiance, while PRF is highly effective in treating delicate areas like under the eyes by delivering prolonged regenerative effects.
How are PRP and PRF used in cosmetic treatments?
PRP and PRF are utilized to rejuvenate facial skin, reduce wrinkles, enhance skin texture, restore under-eye volume, and reduce scarring. They are often combined with microneedling or laser treatments to maximize results.
How long do PRP and PRF results last?
PRP typically delivers results within a few weeks that can last several months whereas PRF offers a more gradual transformation, with effects that can persist for 6 to 12 months due to ongoing collagen stimulation. Both usually require a series of 2-3 treatments for best outcomes de- depending on indication being treated.
Are PRP and PRF safe treatments?
Yes. Because they are made from your own blood, PRP and PRF are extremely safe, with minimal risk of adverse reactions. Common side effects are mild and temporary, such as minor swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site.
What is PRF EZ Gel, and how long do the results last?
PRF EZ Gel is an enhanced form of PRF, processed through a heating and cooling technique to create a thick, smooth gel suitable for volumizing aesthetic treatments. It combines the regenerative properties of PRF with immediate, natural-looking volume, making it a popular filler alternative for areas like cheeks, temples, and tear troughs especially for clients who are not a candidate for filler or who would like a safer alternative. Results typically last between 6 to 12 months, offering both instant improvement and long-term collagen stimulation for a refreshed, youthful appearance.
Read The Natural Way to Rejuvenate Skin by DR. Courtney Austin, MD, and other Glacier Med Spa articles in 406 Woman Magazine.