By Anne Marie McNeill, MD, PhD
Board-Certified Dermatologist, Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery
If you have been exploring options to rejuvenate your skin, you may have heard of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and may also have come across a newer treatment called VAMP. Both treatments stimulate skin regeneration naturally, but they work in different ways. Understanding which is best for your skin can help you achieve more effective results.
What Is PRP?
PRP, sometimes referred to as a "vampire facial," involves drawing a patient’s blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets, and then applying or injecting those platelets into the skin. These platelets are rich in natural growth factors that stimulate collagen production and skin healing.
PRP works well in younger patients whose platelets remain highly potent. However, as we age, platelet concentration and growth factor content diminish, and PRP may not produce the same level of skin regeneration in patients over 40.
What is VAMP?
An easy way to understand the difference between PRP and VAMP is to think of the skin like a lawn. If the lawn is dull, adding fertilizer (such as growth factors) can help. But if the lawn is sparse or aging, adding new grass seed can produce much better results.
VAMP is designed to do both. It is a bio-revitalizing topical treatment that hydrates, repairs, and regenerates skin. It contains:
- PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), a DNA fragment derived from salmon DNA that is 95% similar to human DNA and highly regenerative. PDRN is used worldwide in burn units and hospitals, and is known to have angiogenic properties and help in wound healing. When used topically after dermatologic procedures, PDRN can reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen production, and improve overall skin health
- Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
- Vitamins, amino acids, and minerals to nourish skin cells and promote healing
Who Is VAMP For?
VAMP is an excellent option for:
- Patients seeking skin rejuvenation without traditional fillers
- Patients over 40 who may not respond as well to PRP alone
- Those seeking faster healing after treatments such as microneedling, Morpheus8, or laser
- Individuals looking to improve skin tone, minimize pores, soften fine lines, and restore a healthy glow
How Does It Compare to PRP?
| PRP |
VAMP |
| Uses the patient’s own platelets (bioidentical) |
Uses PDRN, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins |
|
Most effective in younger patients |
Effective across all age groups |
|
No added hydration |
Provides deep hydration and regeneration |
| Requires a blood draw
Can be injected or applied topically, alone or after other dermatologic procedures |
No blood draw needed
Applied topically after dermatologic procedures |
Is VAMP Right for You?
At Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, we are committed to offering the most advanced, effective treatments for our patients. VAMP is one of the latest innovations in skin rejuvenation and offers excellent results, particularly for patients who want to maintain vibrant skin as they age.
If you are interested in learning more about VAMP or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today. We would be happy to help you determine whether this treatment is right for your skin goals.
About Anne Marie McNeill, MD, PhD:
Anne Marie McNeill, MD, PhD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Dr. McNeill is known for combining cutting-edge treatments with natural-looking outcomes, offering individualized care to help patients achieve their best skin health.
