A Guide to Plasma Facial Treatments
- Charis Aesthetics
- Aug 15
- 12 min read
Let’s be honest, the world of advanced skincare can feel a bit like alphabet soup—PRP, PRF, NeoGen… what does it all mean? At its heart, a plasma facial treatment is a clever way of getting your skin to repair and rebuild itself.
Think of it as giving your skin’s own construction crew a serious upgrade. Instead of just patching things up on the surface, these treatments work from the inside out, kickstarting your body's natural healing powers to create a genuinely more youthful appearance.
What Are Plasma Facial Treatments?
Plasma facials are a move away from simply applying creams and serums, and towards working in sync with your body’s own biology. The core idea is brilliantly simple: prompt your skin to produce fresh collagen and elastin—the two proteins that act as the scaffolding for firm, smooth, and healthy-looking skin.
When people talk about a "plasma facial," they're usually referring to one of two distinct approaches, each using a unique method to achieve that revitalised glow.
For a quick overview, here's a simple breakdown of what these treatments entail.
Plasma Facial Treatments At A Glance
Now, let's explore these two methods in a bit more detail.
Understanding the Two Main Types
The first, and probably most famous, type is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. You might have heard it called the "vampire facial." It starts with drawing a small amount of your blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge. This process separates out the plasma and concentrates the platelets, creating a potent, golden-coloured serum.
This "liquid gold" is packed with growth factors—powerful little messengers that tell your cells, "Hey, it's time to repair and regenerate!" This supercharged plasma is then reintroduced into your skin, often with microneedling, to tackle everything from fine lines to uneven texture.
The second category is a bit different: Plasma Skin Regeneration. This method uses energy, not blood. A specialised device, like the NeoGen system, converts inert nitrogen gas into plasma and delivers controlled pulses of thermal energy deep into your skin's architecture. It’s a powerful way to kickstart the healing response without ever breaking the surface of the skin, leading to impressive skin tightening and remodelling over time.
While the methods differ, the goal is the same: to get your body to build fresh, new skin cells and structural proteins. It's all about genuine regeneration, not just a superficial fix.
It's no surprise these treatments have become so popular, especially here in the UK. In fact, the cosmetic surgery sector accounts for over 84.3% of the total revenue in the European PRP market. This boom is largely driven by people seeking out minimally invasive treatments that work in harmony with their own bodies.
You can dive deeper into how these treatments work in our guide on plasma treatment for the face to see how you can revitalise your own skin. By getting to grips with these core concepts, you can start to see why plasma facials deliver such natural-looking, long-lasting results.
How Plasma Rejuvenates Your Skin
The end goal is the same whether we're using components from your own blood or a controlled beam of energy: waking up the cells responsible for creating strong, youthful skin. This is what leads to genuine, lasting improvements in texture, tone, and firmness.
The Role of Platelets in PRP Facials
With a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment, your own platelets are the stars of the show. We essentially concentrate them into a powerful serum—think of them as supercharged messengers. When this PRP is applied to your skin, it delivers a flood of growth factors straight to the dermal layer where they’re needed most.
These growth factors are like a wake-up call for dormant fibroblast cells. Fibroblasts are the tiny factories in your skin that produce collagen and elastin, the two essential proteins that give it structure, firmness, and bounce. As we get older, these factories naturally slow down, but a PRP facial effectively switches them back into high gear, ramping up the production of new, healthy collagen.
To learn more about how this works, check out our complete guide on PRP treatments.
By instructing your skin to build its own support structure, a PRP facial helps smooth fine lines, improve texture, and restore a natural, healthy glow. It’s a classic example of your body healing and rejuvenating itself.
How Plasma Energy Ignites Renewal
Plasma energy treatments, on the other hand, take a different path to get to the same destination. Instead of using platelets, these devices create what’s known as a "controlled healing response." They deliver precise pulses of thermal energy deep into the skin's architecture, all without harming the outer layer.
This gentle heating kickstarts a natural repair mechanism. Your body detects the controlled thermal effect and responds by sending resources to the area, which includes stimulating those same crucial fibroblast cells. This leads to significant collagen remodelling and skin tightening over time.
A study on NeoGen plasma treatments within the UK population showed this effect clearly. This pioneering technology, safe for various skin types, demonstrated major improvements in skin properties and appearance with minimal downtime. It’s all thanks to the controlled plasma energy kickstarting collagen production. This scientific backing confirms that both approaches are brilliant at harnessing your body’s own ability to create healthier, more resilient skin.
Your Journey Through a Plasma Facial
Knowing what to expect during a plasma facial can make the whole experience feel far less intimidating. It’s a carefully planned process, designed to be as smooth and comfortable as possible, from the moment you walk through the door to the final, soothing steps. Let’s break down what actually happens.
The journey doesn't start on the day of the treatment itself. It begins with a proper consultation. This first chat is absolutely vital—it’s where we assess your skin, talk about your goals, and figure out which type of plasma facial is the right match for you. Think of it as drawing a personalised map for your skin's renewal.
Your Treatment Day Experience
If you’re having a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) facial, the first step is a simple blood draw. It’s no different from a routine test at your doctor's surgery, and only a small amount is needed. This sample then goes into a centrifuge—a machine that spins it at high speed to separate all the different components of your blood.
This spinning process isolates the platelet-rich plasma, which is a beautiful, golden-coloured liquid packed with powerful growth factors. It’s this "liquid gold" that holds the key to rejuvenating your skin.
Once the PRP is ready, your face will be cleansed thoroughly. We usually apply a topical numbing cream to make sure you’re completely comfortable. The PRP is then applied to your skin, often using a microneedling device. The tiny micro-channels created by the needles allow the potent plasma to sink deep into the dermis, where it can get to work stimulating collagen and elastin right at the source.
For plasma energy treatments, the prep is quite similar, starting with a clean face. But instead of a blood draw, a special handpiece is used to deliver controlled pulses of thermal energy across your skin. Most people describe the sensation as a gentle, radiating warmth as the device moves over the treatment area.
This image shows the straightforward flow for a plasma energy treatment, highlighting its main stages.
As you can see, every step is deliberate, from preparing the skin to delivering the energy and finally calming everything down afterwards.
No matter which method you choose, the final step is always about soothing the skin. A hydrating serum or a calming mask is applied to cool the skin, reduce any initial redness, and lock in moisture. This kickstarts the healing process straight away.
This carefully structured journey ensures every part of the treatment is handled with precision, setting the stage for fantastic results and a smooth recovery.
So, Is This Treatment Right for You?
While the science behind plasma facial treatments is fascinating, the big question is always the same: is it right for your skin? It helps to think of this treatment as a way to rebuild your skin’s fundamental support system. This makes it a brilliant choice for specific concerns that stem from a loss of collagen and general skin vitality over time.
This approach truly shines for those wanting to tackle the classic signs of ageing and sun damage. By restoring that underlying structure, it delivers visible, lasting improvements.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Plasma Facial?
Generally speaking, you’re likely a great fit for a plasma facial if you’re looking to improve any of the following:
Fine Lines and Wrinkles: By kick-starting new collagen production, plasma facials help plump the skin from the inside out, softening those tell-tale creases around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
Sun Damage and Hyperpigmentation: The treatment’s regenerative power helps to break down pigmented areas and encourage the growth of fresh, evenly toned skin cells.
Acne Scarring: For those textural scars left behind by breakouts, the treatment promotes tissue remodelling, which helps to smooth and level out the skin’s surface.
Dull or Uneven Skin Tone: By giving cellular turnover a boost and improving microcirculation, plasma facials bring back a natural, healthy glow to tired-looking skin.
The best candidates are always those with realistic expectations. They're looking for gradual, natural-looking improvements rather than an instant, dramatic overhaul. It’s about restoring your skin’s vitality, not changing who you are.
When You Should Probably Consider Other Options
That said, plasma facial treatments aren’t a magic wand for every single person or skin issue. Certain health conditions can make the procedure unsuitable or simply less effective.
It’s absolutely vital to be completely open with your practitioner about your medical history. You might not be a suitable candidate if you have:
Active skin infections or inflammatory conditions like eczema or psoriasis in the area you want to treat.
Certain blood disorders, particularly those affecting clotting or bleeding.
A history of developing keloid (raised) scars.
An autoimmune disease that impacts the skin.
This initial chat is non-negotiable—it’s there to protect you and ensure you get the best possible outcome. Understanding both the pros and the cons is the key to making a confident, informed decision on your skincare journey.
Navigating Aftercare and the Recovery Process
What you do after leaving the clinic is just as crucial as the treatment itself for getting that incredible, long-lasting glow. Think of your aftercare as protecting your investment; you're giving your skin the calm, supportive environment it needs to heal beautifully and really make the most of the regenerative effects.
For the first 24 to 48 hours, your skin will probably look a bit pink or red, a lot like a mild sunburn. It might feel a little tight or warm, too. This is all completely normal—in fact, it’s a good sign! It means the growth factors have got to work and the healing process has kicked off. You might see some mild swelling, but that usually goes down quickly.
Your First Week Post Treatment
During the week after your plasma facial, your skin is still sensitive as it gets on with its renewal cycle. To help it along, you’ll need to switch to a very gentle and protective skincare routine. The main goal here is to keep irritation to an absolute minimum while flooding the skin with hydration, which helps those newly stimulated cells to thrive.
Here are the essential 'dos and don'ts' to stick to:
Do use a gentle, soap-free cleanser with lukewarm water. No scrubbing.
Do apply a simple, hydrating moisturiser—your practitioner will recommend the best one.
Don't use any harsh or 'active' skincare ingredients. That means putting away the retinoids, exfoliants (like AHAs/BHAs), and vitamin C serums for now.
Don't expose your skin to direct, prolonged sunlight. A high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable if you have to be outside.
Sticking to these simple rules is paramount. Your skin is delicate and healing, and exposing it to harsh chemicals or UV rays can cause inflammation, lead to hyperpigmentation, and seriously undermine the results you’re hoping for.
The Timeline for Visible Results
Patience is a virtue here, because the most important changes are happening deep beneath the surface first. The initial redness will fade within a few days, but the real magic—all that new collagen and elastin being built—takes a little more time. You'll likely notice an initial "glow" within the first week, which is down to reduced inflammation and better hydration.
The deeper, structural improvements will start to show up gradually. Over the next four to six weeks, you’ll begin to see a real difference in your skin’s texture and tone. Fine lines will appear softer, your complexion will look more even, and your skin will feel firmer to the touch. These results don't stop there; they continue to develop as your skin’s new support network of collagen strengthens over several months, giving you a naturally refreshed appearance that just gets better with time.
Understanding Risks and Costs in the UK
Making an informed decision is a confident one, especially when you’re considering an aesthetic treatment. While plasma facial treatments are rightly praised for their natural, regenerative approach, it's essential to have a clear picture of the potential side effects and the financial investment before you jump in.
Like any cosmetic procedure, there are some risks, though most are mild and short-lived. It’s completely normal to experience a bit of redness, minor swelling, or even some bruising where the treatment was done. These effects usually settle down within a few days as your skin gets to work on its healing and rebuilding process. The single biggest thing you can do to minimise risks? Choose a medically qualified, experienced practitioner who has a deep understanding of facial anatomy and follows strict safety protocols.
Breaking Down the Financial Investment
The cost of a plasma facial in the UK can vary quite a bit, depending on a few key things. The clinic's location, the practitioner's level of expertise, and the exact type of treatment you need for your skin will all play a part in the final figure.
As a rough guide, a single session of PRP might start from a few hundred pounds. A full course of treatments, or a more advanced plasma energy procedure, will naturally represent a larger investment.
It’s helpful to think of the cost not just as a one-off expense, but as an investment in your skin’s long-term health. Paying for high-quality care from a reputable clinic is what ensures your safety and delivers the kind of lasting results you're hoping for.
Leading UK experts are now calling PRP a ‘game-changer’ for delicate areas like under the eyes, with top clinics in places like London offering advanced protocols for retexturing the skin. A complete treatment plan can cost around £2,000, which shows just how much medical recognition these procedures are gaining. You can read more about how aesthetic treatments are becoming recognised medical interventions on Harper's Bazaar.
Ultimately, the only way to get a precise quote is through a proper consultation, where a plan can be tailored specifically to you. It’s also worth exploring other options, which you can do by reading our guide on UK anti-aging treatments that actually work. This way, there are no surprises, you can budget properly, and you can move forward feeling completely confident in your choice.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Even after getting to grips with the science, it's completely normal to have a few practical questions about plasma facial treatments. We get it. So, let's clear up some of the most common queries to make sure you feel completely confident and in the loop.
Does the Plasma Facial Hurt?
This is probably the number one question we hear, and the short answer is no, not really! Most people find the treatment very manageable.
If your plasma facial involves microneedling (like with PRP), we’ll apply a topical numbing cream to your skin beforehand. This desensitises the area so well that you'll likely only feel a light pressure or a gentle vibrating sensation, rather than any actual pain.
For plasma energy treatments, the feeling is usually described as a mild warmth as the device moves across your skin. Your comfort is our absolute priority, and we’ll check in with you every step of the way.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, as it all comes down to your unique skin and what you want to achieve. A single treatment can definitely give your skin a beautiful boost and a healthy glow, but for more significant changes, a course of treatments is the way to go.
For tackling things like deeper lines, acne scarring, or uneven texture, we typically recommend a series of three to four treatments. Spacing them four to six weeks apart allows the collagen-building process to really gain momentum, delivering more dramatic and lasting improvements with each session.
We'll map out a personalised plan just for you during your initial consultation.
How Long Do the Results Last?
This is one of the best parts. Because plasma facials work by getting your own body to produce more collagen and elastin, the results you see are real and built to last.
You’ll notice improvements developing for up to six months after your treatment course as that new collagen network matures and strengthens your skin from within. The natural ageing process does continue, of course, but many of our clients enjoy their results for well over a year.
To keep that regenerative process ticking over, a single top-up session every 12–18 months is a fantastic strategy. It helps maintain that firm, smooth, and radiant complexion long-term.
Ready to see how a plasma facial can rejuvenate your skin from the inside out? At Charis Aesthetics, we blend medical expertise with a personal touch to achieve natural, beautiful results. Book your consultation with us today and let's start your journey to skin you feel amazing in.
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