PRP and Microneedling in Coral Gables: How They Work and What to Expect

2026-03-20 | Skin Treatments

Medically reviewed by Dr. Asheline Marmolejos, Licensed Aesthetic Injector, ILU Collective

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) combined with microneedling at ILU Collective in Coral Gables uses the patient's own growth factors to support skin renewal, texture improvement, and collagen production under physician supervision at 135 Madeira Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134. The combination of controlled micro-injury and concentrated growth factor application is one of the most requested skin rejuvenation protocols at our practice - and for practical reasons. It uses your body's own biology rather than synthetic compounds, requires minimal downtime, and may produce progressive improvement over a series of treatments.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling - also called collagen induction therapy - uses a device equipped with fine, sterile needles to create thousands of controlled micro-channels in the skin's surface. These micro-injuries trigger the body's natural wound-healing response, which includes the production of new collagen and elastin fibers.

The depth of needle penetration is adjusted based on the treatment area and the specific concern being addressed. Shallower depths are used for fine lines and general texture refinement. Deeper settings may be appropriate for acne scarring or more significant textural irregularities. At ILU Collective, microneedling depth and technique are determined by your provider based on a clinical assessment of your skin.

Microneedling alone may support improvement in skin texture, pore appearance, fine lines, and overall skin quality over a series of sessions. The addition of PRP amplifies the collagen induction process by delivering concentrated growth factors directly into the micro-channels while they are open. Individual results vary.

What Is PRP and How Is It Made?

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It is derived from a small sample of the patient's own blood - typically one to two vials drawn at the beginning of the appointment. The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which separates it into its component layers. The platelet-rich layer is then extracted and prepared for application.

Platelets contain growth factors - including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-b), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) - that play a role in tissue repair and regeneration. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery (Aust et al.) demonstrated that PRP applied in conjunction with microneedling may enhance collagen deposition compared to microneedling alone.

PRP is autologous - meaning it comes from your own body. This significantly reduces the risk of allergic reaction or adverse immune response. PRP is not FDA-approved as a standalone treatment for aesthetic indications. At ILU Collective, PRP is used off-label under physician supervision as part of a personalized skin rejuvenation protocol. Individual results vary.

Why Combine PRP With Microneedling?

The logic behind the combination is straightforward: microneedling creates the micro-channels, and PRP delivers concentrated growth factors directly into those channels while they are still open and receptive. This means the growth factors reach the dermal layer - where collagen production occurs - rather than sitting on the surface of intact skin where penetration is limited.

The combination may support a more robust collagen induction response than either treatment performed independently. The micro-channels also allow the PRP to distribute more evenly across the treatment area, which may contribute to more uniform results. Individual results vary based on skin type, age, baseline skin condition, and the number of sessions completed.

What Skin Concerns Does This Address?

PRP microneedling at ILU Collective is most commonly requested for the following concerns:

Texture and Enlarged Pores: The collagen remodeling process may support improvement in overall skin texture and the appearance of enlarged pores. As new collagen fibers form and organize, the skin surface may become smoother and more refined over a series of treatments. Individual results vary.

Fine Lines: Fine lines - particularly around the eyes, forehead, and mouth - may respond to the increased collagen and elastin production stimulated by the combination protocol. PRP microneedling is not a substitute for neurotoxin or filler in cases where deeper lines or volume loss are the primary concern. Individual results vary.

Acne Scarring: PRP microneedling may support improvement in the appearance of atrophic (depressed) acne scars by stimulating collagen production in the scarred tissue. Multiple sessions are typically needed, and results depend on the type, depth, and age of the scars. This treatment does not address active acne - only residual scarring. Individual results vary.

Uneven Tone and Dullness: The cellular turnover and collagen remodeling process may support a more even skin tone and improved radiance over time. For patients in South Florida dealing with cumulative UV exposure and environmental stress, PRP microneedling may help restore a more vital appearance to sun-affected skin. Individual results vary.

For a broader view of skin rejuvenation services, visit our Skincare page. If your primary goal is a refreshed, more youthful appearance, explore I Want Younger-Looking Skin.

What to Expect: Before, During, and After

Before: Avoid retinoids, AHA/BHA exfoliants, and excessive sun exposure for approximately 5 to 7 days before your session. Arrive with clean skin - no makeup, sunscreen, or active skincare products on the treatment area. If you are on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, discuss this with your provider before scheduling.

During: A topical numbing cream is applied for approximately 20 to 30 minutes before the procedure begins. Your blood is drawn and processed in the centrifuge during this numbing period. The microneedling treatment itself takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes depending on the treatment area. PRP is applied to the skin during and immediately after the needling process. Most patients describe the sensation as mild pressure with occasional warmth.

After: Expect redness and mild swelling similar to a moderate sunburn for 24 to 72 hours. Some patients experience light peeling or dryness in the days following treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure, heavy exercise, swimming, and active skincare products for 48 to 72 hours post-treatment. A gentle cleanser and hydrating moisturizer are recommended during recovery. SPF 30 or higher is required on treated areas once the initial redness subsides.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Most patients at ILU Collective complete 3 to 6 PRP microneedling sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. The spacing allows the collagen remodeling cycle to progress between sessions - new collagen formation takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks to reach its peak after each treatment.

Patients addressing fine lines and general texture refinement may see meaningful improvement within 3 sessions. Those addressing acne scarring or more significant textural concerns may benefit from 4 to 6 sessions or more. Dr. Asheline Marmolejos evaluates progress at each visit and adjusts the protocol as needed.

Maintenance sessions - typically once or twice per year - may help sustain results over time. Collagen production naturally declines with age, so periodic treatment may support the longevity of the initial improvement. Individual results vary.

PRP vs. Other Skin Treatments at ILU

PRP microneedling occupies a specific role in the spectrum of skin rejuvenation options at ILU Collective. Here is how it compares to other commonly requested treatments:

PRP Microneedling vs. HydraFacial: HydraFacial is a surface-level treatment focused on hydration, extraction, and immediate glow. PRP microneedling works at a deeper level, targeting collagen remodeling and textural improvement over time. They serve different purposes and are often used together - HydraFacial for maintenance, PRP microneedling for structural improvement.

PRP Microneedling vs. Laser Resurfacing: Laser treatments use light energy to create controlled thermal injury. PRP microneedling uses mechanical micro-injury combined with growth factors. Laser resurfacing may be more appropriate for certain types of scarring or pigmentation. PRP microneedling may be better suited for patients with deeper Fitzpatrick skin types, as it carries lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation than some laser modalities.

PRP Microneedling vs. Injectables: Fillers and neurotoxins address volume loss and dynamic lines respectively. PRP microneedling addresses skin quality - texture, tone, pore size, and surface-level scarring. Many patients at ILU Collective combine PRP microneedling with injectable treatments as part of a comprehensive rejuvenation protocol. Individual results vary.

Book Your Consultation

ILU Collective is located at 135 Madeira Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134. To schedule a PRP microneedling consultation, call (786) 539-3085 or book online. All treatments are performed under physician supervision. Individual results vary.

Medical Disclaimer: PRP microneedling at ILU Collective is performed under the supervision of Dr. Lourdes Bosch, Medical Director, under Florida Statute 458.3265. PRP is not FDA-approved for aesthetic indications and is used off-label under physician supervision. Individual results vary based on skin type, age, baseline condition, and number of sessions. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether PRP microneedling is appropriate for your skin goals.

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