Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Tubes for Facial Rejuvenation: A Guide to ACD Gel, Sodium Citrate Gel, and HA-Enhanced Tubes

Introduction to PRP in Facial Skin Care

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has revolutionized non-surgical facial rejuvenation, offering a natural, autologous solution for:
✔ Wrinkle reduction (stimulates collagen & elastin)
✔ Skin tightening (improves texture & firmness)
✔ Scar revision (softens acne & surgical scars)
✔ Hyperpigmentation correction (brightens uneven tone)

The effectiveness of PRP depends heavily on the type of blood collection tube used. This article compares three specialized PRP tubes for facial aesthetics:

1. ACD GEL PRP TUBES
2. Sodium Citrate Gel PRP tubes
3. ACD Gel + Hyaluronic Acid (HA) PRP Tubes

1. ACD Gel PRP Tubes for Facial Rejuvenation

Composition & Mechanism

Anticoagulant: Acid Citrate Dextrose (ACD) – Preserves platelets with citrate + dextrose.

Gel Separator: Ensures high-purity PRP by removing RBCs.

Benefits for Skin

✅ Superior growth factor release (VEGF, TGF-β) → Boosts collagen synthesis.
✅ Gentle on platelets (dextrose prevents premature activation).
✅ Ideal for long PRP storage (up to 8 hours before processing).

Best For:

Deep wrinkle treatment (e.g., nasolabial folds).

Overall skin regeneration (first-time PRP users).

Protocol:

1. Draw blood → Centrifuge (1500–3000 RPM, 10 mins).
2. Extract PRP layer → Inject into dermis or mix with microneedling.

2. Sodium Citrate Gel PRP Tubes for Quick Facial Treatments

Composition & Mechanism

Anticoagulant: 3.2% Sodium Citrate – Rapid calcium chelation.

Gel Separator: Faster plasma separation than ACD.

Benefits for Skin

✅ Faster PRP preparation (ready in 5–10 mins).
✅ Higher fibrinogen content → Better for “PRP fibrin matrix” techniques.
✅ Cost-effective for clinics.

Best For:

Immediate PRP facials (no waiting time).

Combination therapies (e.g., PRP + laser).

Protocol:

1. Centrifuge immediately after blood draw.
2. Combine PRP with calcium chloride for enhanced clotting.

3. ACD Gel + Hyaluronic Acid (HA) PRP Tubes – Premium Rejuvenation

Composition & Mechanism

ACD Anticoagulant + Low-MW Hyaluronic Acid (pre-loaded in tube).

Gel Separator: Maintains platelet integrity.

Benefits for Skin

✅ HA hydrates & volumizes (synergizes with PRP growth factors).
✅ “Liquid facelift” effect (fills fine lines instantly).
✅ Longer-lasting results vs. standard PRP.

Best For:

Severe skin laxity.

Patients wanting “PRP + filler” in one step.

Protocol:

1. Centrifuge → HA-PRP mixture forms naturally.
2. Inject as a dermal booster or under eyes.

Comparative Summary: Which PRP Tube is Best for Facial Aesthetics?

How to Use PRP Tubes for Facial Treatments?

1. Blood Draw: Collect 10–20 mL into chosen PRP tube.
2. Centrifugation: Spin at clinic-specific protocol (e.g., 4000 RPM × 10 mins).
3. PRP Extraction: Isolate middle plasma layer (avoid RBCs).

Application:

Injections (mesotherapy, under eyes).

Microneedling (PRP as topical serum).

Fibrin Masks (for post-laser recovery).

Conclusion: Optimizing PRP for Skin Care

Choosing the right PRP tube for facial rejuvenation depends on:
✔ Treatment goals (collagen vs. hydration vs. speed).
✔ Clinic workflow (immediate vs. delayed processing).

For best results:

ACD Gel PRP → Long-term collagen remodeling.

Sodium Citrate PRP → Fast, cost-effective treatments.

ACD + HA PRP → Premium anti-aging combo therapy.

�� Pro Tip: Combine PRP with microneedling or radiofrequency for 2x collagen stimulation!