Book Now

Microneedling with Exosomes vs PRP: What’s Better for Skin Rejuvenation?

In This Article

If you’re considering Microneedling, you’ve likely come across two buzzworthy boosters: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and Exosomes. Both are designed to amplify collagen stimulation and recovery — but which one suits you best?

Here at Lovoir Day Spa in Christchurch, it’s our ongoing mission to educate our clients (and non-customers too!) on all things beauty, skincare, facial treatments, and everything in between. And that includes today’s topic: Microneedling with Exosomes vs. PRP.

Now, just to be completely transparent – although we do specialise in Microneedling with Exosomes, we are always appreciative of other treatments and trends that promise REAL results, much like PRP.

So in this article, you can trust us to give you the good, honest low-down on both Exosomes and PRP. We’ll compare the benefits, the process, downtime, and more — including which option is best based on different preferences. After all, we all share one goal anyway: beautiful, bright, smooth, youthful-looking skin!

Ready to learn? Let’s get started.

How Microneedling Works

First thing’s first: What is microneedling?

Microneedling creates precise micro-channels on your skin that spark collagen and elastin production for a firmer, smoother skin texture and an even, more vibrant skin tone. 

While those tiny needles may seem off-putting at first, the treatment is totally safe – as long as you leave it to experts. 

Some quick facts to keep in mind:

  • Length of treatment: Between 50 to 70 mins
  • Pain level: Mild discomfort
  • Side effects: Mild redness, warmth, puffiness; occasional flaking/peeling for a few days.
  • Downtime: Typically 24–72 hours of visible redness/sensitivity; gentle cleanse, moisturiser and SPF; avoid heavy workouts/heat briefly.
  • How soon results show: Subtle glow/texture improvements can appear within a few days; collagen changes unfold over several weeks and a series.
  • How long results last: Cumulative with a course; maintained with periodic top-ups + good skincare/SPF.
  • How often / spacing: Plan every 2–6 weeks depending on skin condition and treatment intensity.
  • Ideal number of sessions: Commonly 3–6+ for best results (then maintenance as advised).

✨ Why clients love it: Microneedling targets tone, texture, pores, fine lines — and can be planned as a series for best results!

📌 Want to learn more? Read: Ultimate Guide on Microneedling

How PRP Works

PRP is your own blood’s plasma concentrated with platelets and growth factors. When used with microneedling, it’s applied topically (and sometimes injected in medical settings) to support collagen and wound-healing pathways. 

Many people choose PRP for scar refinement and overall rejuvenation; comfort depends on your tolerance for a quick blood draw and clinic protocol.

  • Length of treatment
    Varies by provider/protocol. If combined with microneedling (“vampire facial”), total time is longer than microneedling alone due to blood draw + processing.
  • Pain during treatment (if any)
    Venipuncture (blood draw) is required. If injections are used, expect needle sensitivity/tenderness in treated areas.
  • Side effects
    Usually transient redness, swelling, bruising and injection-site tenderness (if injected). PRP is autologous (low allergy risk); sterile handling is essential.
  • Downtime
    If topical with microneedling: similar to microneedling (about 1–3 days of redness). If injected: add localised bruising/swelling for a few days.
  • How soon results show
    Gradual (typically weeks) as collagen remodels, but the timing ultimately depends on topical-with-needling vs injection protocols.
  • How long results last
    Often months, with maintenance recommended; varies by age, concern, lifestyle and delivery method.
  • How often / spacing
    Common clinical patterns: every 4–6 weeks across an initial series when paired with microneedling; maintenance every few months as needed.
  • Ideal number of sessions
    Frequently ~3 sessions to start (face), then periodic maintenance per provider guidance.

✨ Why clients love it: For those comfortable with needles, PRP is an evidence-forward pathway for texture and scarring!

What are Exosomes?

Exosomes are tiny, cell-derived messengers carrying proteins, peptides and other signals that help coordinate repair. When paired with microneedling, they’re applied topically so that actives can diffuse through freshly created channels — clients often report that “post-treatment glow” and comfortable recovery.

✨ Lovoir’s upgrade option:

  • We offer an exosome add-on using EXO-SKIN™ in step with our Dermapen-based protocols — highlighting immune-tolerant design and smart delivery systems that support hydration and barrier repair post-treatment.

✨ Lovoir snapshot:

  • Easy topical upgrade (no blood draw)
  • Often chosen for comfort and fast “radiance” recovery days (need to edit here, we’ve had amazing results with wrinkles, deep lines, acne etc)
  • Priced as a simple treatment upgrade (popular with series)
  • Amazing results with wrinkles, deep lines, acne, and other skin conditions. 

📌 Want to learn more? Read: The Hype Behind Microneedling with Exosomes

Exosomes vs. PRP: What’s The Difference?

It’s also important to note the PRP relies on the health and age of your own plasma (because it’s from you) while the exosomes are the youngest and freshest simulation.

Our Microneedling Approach at Lovoir (so you know exactly what to expect)

Here at Lovoir Day Spa in Christchurch, we specialise in Microneedling with Exosomes. And while we do recognize PRP’s various skin benefits, we personally advocate and believe in Exosomes as a superior skin rejuvenation approach. 

Here’s a quick guide on how we offer our treatment:

  • Skinonsultation first:
    • Skin assessment
    • Photos with OBSERV
    • Recommended treatment plan for your goals and timeline
  • Treatment Protocol:
    • Dermapen4 microneedling device + DP Dermaceuticals pro serums
    • Soothing and SPF to finish
    • Sessions can target face, neck, décolletage, hands and scalp
  • Upgrades that fit your treatment plan:
    • EXO-SKIN™ exosomes to supercharge results
    • LED Light Therapy for enhanced collagen production
  • Series mindset:
    • Best results come from multiple sessions (3–6 depending on your agreed treatment plan)
    • Save 10% when purchasing your treatment as a concession

📅 Book your skin consultation today at our award-winning day spa in Christchurch. Click here to schedule.

Safety, Recovery & Who Should Skip It

  • Expect temporary side-effects: Mild redness/sensitivity for 24–72 hours
  • We’ll provide a short, simple aftercare list: Cleanser, moisturiser, SPF, avoid intense workouts for a couple of days
  • Like all treatments, it’s not for everyone: we may defer treatment if you’re pregnant, have active skin infections, or a history of keloid scarring — don’t worry, our aesthetician will give you the go-signal during your consult.

Quick Guide: Which Microneedling Add-On is Right For Me?

“I want amazing results and easy comfort without a blood draw.” 

Try the Exosomes upgrade — topical, no blood draw, designed to support hydration and barrier repair while you heal.

“I’m okay with a blood draw if it means having beautiful skin.”

Consider PRP instead, which we unfortunately don’t offer in Lovoir, but we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have during our skin consultation.

“I want maximum collagen support.”

Try Microneedling with both upgrades: Exosomes + LED with your series for cumulative benefits.

DP Dermaceuticals EXO-SKIN Serum

Book Microneedling with Exosomes at Lovoir Day Spa Christchurch

If you’re interested in trying Microneedling with Exosomes, our team of Lovoir aestheticians are here to tailor a results-driven plan for your skin.

For starters, book a skin consultation with us and we’ll guide you through a treatment plan that fits your goals, comfort, and timeline. And don’t worry, we’ll discuss other beauty treatments that you may want to consider, just in case microneedling may not be the best fit for you..

Sounds good? Visit our Christchurch Central or Avonhead locations, and let’s start your skin journey together!

Book your skin consultation

Book Microeedling with Exosomes

Got Other Beauty Needs?

We’ve got it all for you! Check out our wide range of beauty treatments at Lovoir Day Spa:

When in doubt, just consult our expert aestheticians, and we’ll help recommend the best treatment for your beauty goals. We hope to see you soon!

Visit our Beauty Salon & Day Spa at Lovoir The Crossing:

Explore more of our expert Microneedling guides:

You might also enjoy