If you’re exploring the best way to elevate your skin’s health and glow, you’ve likely encountered two very different approaches: the relaxing spa-standard facial, and the advanced regenerative therapy — commonly called PRP combo therapy — offered by specialized clinics like ours at PRP In Seattle. In this post, we’ll compare the two, unpacking what they can and cannot do, and help you decide which is the right fit — or whether both have a place in your skin-care journey.
Here’s a quick glance at what we’re comparing:
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Traditional facials (cleansing, exfoliation, masks, hydration)
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Combo therapy (for example, Platelet‑Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) + microneedling + exosomes + lasers at PRPInSeattle)
We’ll highlight benefits, risks, downtimes, investment and outcomes — and how combo therapy stacks up when you’re serious about skin-quality improvement.
What is a Traditional Facial?
Traditional facials are spa-based treatments that focus on surface skin improvement. They typically include cleansing, gentle exfoliation, extraction, a mask, massage and hydration. The goal: refreshed, clean and glowing skin. They feel good, they give immediate visible brightness and comfort.
Advantages
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Minimal downtime – you often walk out refreshed.
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Relatively lower cost.
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Great for maintenance, stress relief, surface hydration and general pampering.
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Works nicely when skin needs a “reset” after environmental stress or if you want a glow for an event.
Limitations
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Because the treatment is mostly superficial, the results are short-term. One source states that standard facials “offer immediate radiance” but “microneedling offers enduring improvements.” That Face Place
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Do not reach deep skin structures (dermis) where collagen, elastin and true structural change occur.
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If your concern is more than surface glow (deep scars, texture, laxity, pigmentation) a traditional facial may not provide the outcome you desire.
What is Combo Therapy?
At PRPInSeattle (serving Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland), we offer what we call combo therapy — a synergistic advanced aesthetic approach that typically combines:
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PRP (platelet-rich plasma) — your body’s own growth factors.
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Microneedling — creating micro-injuries to stimulate collagen.
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Exosomes — biologic “messengers” that support regeneration. MDPI+2Highlander Dermatology+2
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Lasers (as needed for texture/pigmentation) to boost results further.
This combination is designed not just to refresh the skin temporarily, but to rehabilitate and rebuild skin quality at a deeper level.
How it works
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Microneedling creates micro-channels in the skin, which allow deeper delivery of growth factors. Eternity Wellness+1
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PRP delivers concentrated platelets and growth factors into the skin to accelerate healing and matrix remodeling. Healthline+1
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Exosomes (cell-derived vesicles) have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, regenerative and remodeling effects in the skin. MDPI+1
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Lasers target pigmentation, texture irregularities, vascular issues or stimulate further collagen depending on the device and setting.
When combined, you get the sum of each part — deeper, longer-lasting improvements than any one therapy alone.
Benefits vs Traditional Facials
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Longer-lasting structural change. Traditional facials improve appearance but not the underlying architecture; combo therapy rebuilds.
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Improved skin texture, tone, laxity and scars — not just surface glow. For example, studies show microneedling + PRP improves acne scars and texture more than microneedling alone. Healthline+1
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Deeper penetration and biologic activation via exosomes and PRP. Highlander Dermatology
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Fewer sessions needed for some concerns (though maintenance is still encouraged). modMD
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More “medical-aesthetic” approach rather than spa service — requires expertise and proper equipment.
Considerations & Trade-Offs
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Cost is higher than a traditional facial.
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Slightly more downtime: you may have mild redness or sensitivity for 24-48 hours.
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Requires commitment: often multiple sessions spaced weeks apart.
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Need proper provider and setting (sterility, trained operators) to maximize safety and outcome.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Facial | Combo Therapy (PRP + Microneedling + Exosomes + Lasers) |
|---|---|---|
| Depth of treatment | Superficial: surface skin only | Deep: dermis + regeneration pathways |
| Goal | Immediate refresh, glow, mild skin health | Structural improvement: texture, tone, laxity, scars |
| Downtime | Minimal to none | Mild: 24-48h of redness, sensitivity |
| Sessions | Often monthly for maintenance | Typically series of 3-6, with maintenance thereafter |
| Cost | Lower | Higher investment |
| Outcome duration | Short-term (weeks) | Longer-lasting (months) and cumulative |
| Ideal for | Glow, hydration, surface concerns | Texture irregularities, aging signs, scars, serious skin quality goals |
Which Should You Choose?
If your priority is a relaxing treatment, improved radiance, or you want something low-maintenance, a traditional facial remains valid and beneficial. However, if your goals include deep texture refinement, scar improvement, visible tone/laxity changes, or longer-term skin-quality investment — then PRP combo therapy offers markedly enhanced results.
At PRPInSeattle we often guide patients as follows:
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Begin with a consultation: we assess your skin concerns (texture, scars, laxity, pigmentation).
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If concerns are mostly cosmetic / surface → traditional facial for maintenance is fine.
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If concerns are structural → build a plan around combo therapy.
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Many patients choose a hybrid path: a combo therapy series for the “big leap” then periodic traditional facials for maintenance.
Call to Action
Ready to learn which path is right for you? Schedule your consultation at PRP In Seattle in Seattle/Bellevue/Kirkland. Call 425-391-3322 to speak with our team and book your assessment. Take the first step toward skin that not only looks good — but is healthier, stronger and more resilient.
FAQ (Footer)
Q: Does combo therapy hurt more than a traditional facial?
A: You may feel mild prickling or warmth during microneedling or laser, and some redness afterwards. It’s well-tolerated when done by our trained team, and many patients compare the sensation to a “good workout” for the skin.
Q: How many sessions of combo therapy are needed?
A: For most patients we recommend a series of 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Then maintenance every 6-12 months depending on your skin goals.
Q: How soon will I see results?
A: You’ll notice initial improvements in skin tone and glow within 1-2 weeks. Deeper changes (texture, firmness) typically develop over 2-3 months as collagen rebuilds.
Q: Can I still get traditional facials after combo therapy?
A: Absolutely. In fact, combining advanced therapy with regular facials often yields the best long-term skin health and glow.
Q: Is combo therapy safe for all skin types?
A: Yes — when performed by experienced clinicians who tailor treatments to your skin tone, type and history. We will assess your suitability during your consultation.
Let us help you decide whether the surface refresh of a traditional facial is enough — or if it’s time to step up and invest in the deeper, longer-lasting benefits of combo therapy. Call 425-391-3322 now to book your consultation at PRPInSeattle.
