Brooks Nader and Grace Ann Nader Try Platelet-Rich Plasma Microneedling

The 2023 SI Swimsuit Issue cover star and her sister visited Manhattan’s Dermatology and Laser Group and took us behind the scenes.

Brooks Nader and Grace Ann Nader.

Kristina Bumphrey/Getty Images

Brooks Nader, one of four 2023 SI Swimsuit Issue cover stars, is taking fans along as she tries the latest and greatest beauty treatments for the brand’s “No Filter” video series.

After testing JUVÉDERM, a popular form of hyaluronic acid-based filler, Nader brought along a very special guest, her sister Grace Ann Nader, to try out microneedling. The two visited Dr. Arash Akhavan at The Dermatology and Laser Group in Midtown Manhattan.

“We’re gonna drain. We’re gonna sculpt. We’re gonna lift,” Nader began. “Should we start a band? I’m gonna let you know what’s worth it [and] what’s not. I’m going to be trying all of them out. Let’s do it!”

What is platelet-rich plasma microneedling?

Microneedling means stimulating the skin’s natural healing process, which includes collagen production, by creating controlled micro-injuries. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is often referred to as a “vampire facial” because it involves using a small sample of your own blood cells. The blood is spun in a centrifuge for about 15 minutes, allowing platelets to separate by density. A dermatologist then extracts PRP and applies it to the skin’s surface.

“We’re going to draw your blood, take the growth factors out of it and use little tiny needles to introduce the growth factors into your skin,” Dr. Akhavan explained before the treatment.

PRP microneedling is meant to help fade acne scars and surgical scars and can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and stretch marks. It targets “general skin revitalization to get a glow,” Dr. Akhavan added.

The treatment takes two hours or less and doesn’t require any downtime or recovery.

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Grace Ann’s experience

Brooks jokingly asked if it would be “weird” to put her sisters blood on her face. “Yeah. Illegal,” Dr. Akhavan responded.

Following the blood test, he spread a bit of plasma all over Grace Ann’s face and then used a different microneedling tool to create tiny breaks in the skin to stimulate collagen production underneath the surface.

“It hurts to be beautiful,” Grace Ann said with a laugh. “It is super cool that they used my own blood for this.”

“Don’t worry, baby, it’s almost over,” Brooks reassured as she grabbed her sister’s hand.

The results

After the treatment, Dr. Akhavan placed a cooling sheet mask on Grace Ann’s skin to reduce redness and irritation.

“Immediately following the microneedling facial, you will notice that your skin will be a little pink. Starting that third day after, your skin will definitely have a glow to it,” he explained. “It will feel and look a little tighter and that is a signal that your skin has started producing new collagen.”

“I am so hydrated and glowing,” Grace Ann said, looking into a handheld mirror. “Wow.”

“So, does the microneedling with PRP have the Nader sisters’ approval?” Brooks asked.

“Definitely,” Grace Ann quickly replied. “Check.”

“You heard it here first,” Brooks finished.

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