The Princess and the PRP

Regenerative expert, nurse Claudia McGloin looks at the best way to administer PRP: cannula vs. needle

CLAUDIA MCGLOIN

Claudia McGloin is a registered nurse and holds dual registration in both the UK and Ireland. With more than 27 years’ nursing experience, McGloin is the clinical director and nurse practitioner at The New You Clinic in Sligo. She is one of Ireland’s leading platelet-rich plasma experts and has performed thousands of PRP treatments. She has shared her expertise on the international stage and in various publications.

While the science behind PRP is well-established, the method of administration plays a crucial role in both safety and clinical outcomes. Two primary techniques are widely used: needle injection and blunt-tip cannula. Each method has its place in practice, and choosing the appropriate approach requires understanding the indication, anatomy, patient tolerance and injector expertise.

NEEDLE INJECTION: PRECISION AND CONTROL

Needle injection has been the traditional method for PRP delivery. It allows for precise placement of small amounts of PRP in targeted areas. This is particularly beneficial in:

- Fine lines and wrinkles

- Under-eye tear troughs

- Localised scars or acne pitting

- Scalp treatments for hair restoration

Using a needle enables the injector to access superficial and deeper dermal layers by varying the angle and depth. However, this technique involves multiple entry points, which can lead to increased bruising, swelling, discomfort and greater risk of vascular injury, especially in high-risk areas like the periorbital region.

CANNULA: SAFETY AND PATIENT COMFORT

The blunt-tip cannula technique has gained traction in recent years due to its reduced trauma and safety profile. A cannula allows for a wider area to be treated from a single entry point, reducing punctures and minimising trauma to blood vessels. Benefits of cannula administration include: - Less bruising and swelling - Lower risk of vascular occlusion - Improved patient comfort - Efficient product distribution Cannula is particularly effective in under-eye rejuvenation, midface volume support and neck treatments, where tissue fragility and vascular complexity raise concerns. PRP can be evenly fanned across the treatment area, delivering regenerative benefits with reduced post-treatment downtime.

NEEDLE VS. CANNULA: CHOOSING THE RIGHT TECHNIQUE

The decision to use a needle or cannula depends on several clinical and anatomical factors:

In areas where fine control is essential, such as treating individual wrinkles or scars, a needle may offer superior accuracy. For larger treatment zones or high-risk areas, a cannula is often preferred.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING AND TECHNIQUE

Regardless of method, injector skill and anatomical knowledge are paramount. Cannula use, while safer in some respects, requires more advanced training and confidence. Understanding facial layers, danger zones and injection planes is non-negotiable for both techniques.

PRP outcomes are closely tied not just to platelet concentration and preparation, but to how and where it is delivered. An improperly administered treatment can lead to poor results or even adverse events. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to PRP delivery. Cannulas offer safety and comfort, particularly in delicate or broad areas, while needles offer pinpoint accuracy for targeted corrections. A skilled practitioner will understand when and how to use each tool, tailoring the approach to the individual patient and treatment goals.

As the field of regenerative aesthetics continues to evolve, so too must our techniques. Mastery of both methods ensures the best outcomes, happy patients, and a thriving practice rooted in safety and science.