Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) are two of the most advanced natural skin rejuvenation treatments available today. Both use growth factors from your own blood to stimulate collagen, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture. But what’s the difference between PRP and PRF? While they share similarities, PRF is an advanced version of PRP, offering longer-lasting benefits with a more natural approach. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the best treatment for your skin goals.
TL;DR – Quick Guide
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) are both regenerative treatments that use your blood’s healing properties.
- PRF contains more growth factors and fibrin, making it longer-lasting and more effective.
- PRP is often used for faster healing in microneedling and hair restoration, while PRF is ideal for deep skin rejuvenation.
- PRF is processed without anticoagulants, allowing for a more natural and gradual release of healing properties.
- Mirabile M.D. offers both PRP and PRF treatments, tailored to individual skin needs.
Detailed Breakdown
What Is PRP?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is a treatment that involves drawing a small sample of your blood, processing it in a centrifuge, and extracting the plasma rich in platelets and growth factors. These growth factors are then injected or applied to the skin, stimulating collagen production, cell repair, and overall skin rejuvenation.
How PRP Works:
- Blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate plasma from red blood cells.
- Anticoagulants are used to keep the blood from clotting.
- The platelet-rich plasma is applied during microneedling or injected into the skin.
- Growth factors promote healing, skin renewal, and collagen production.
Common Uses of PRP:
- Microneedling “Vampire Facial” – Enhances skin texture, reduces fine lines, and improves overall tone.
- Hair restoration – Stimulates hair follicles for thicker, healthier hair.
- Post-laser or post-procedure healing – Speeds up recovery after treatments like CO2 laser.
What Is PRF?
PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin, is the next-generation version of PRP. It follows a similar process but is spun at a lower speed without anticoagulants, allowing for a higher concentration of platelets, white blood cells, and fibrin matrix. This results in a slower, more sustained release of growth factors, leading to more effective and long-lasting skin rejuvenation.
How PRF Works:
- Blood is drawn and spun at a slower speed than PRP.
- No anticoagulants are used, allowing for natural clotting.
- The fibrin-rich plasma is applied via microneedling or injections.
- PRF releases growth factors over time, leading to prolonged skin regeneration.
Common Uses of PRF:
- Under-eye rejuvenation – Reduces dark circles, hollowness, and fine lines.
- Facial volume restoration – Provides subtle plumping and skin tightening.
- Acne scar treatment – Improves skin texture over time.
Key Differences Between PRP and PRF
| Feature | PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) | PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) |
| Processing Speed | Spun at high speed | Spun at low speed |
| Anticoagulants | Used to prevent clotting | Not used, allowing fibrin to form |
| Platelet Concentration | High | Higher than PRP |
| Growth Factor Release | Immediate release | Slow, sustained release |
| Longevity of Effects | Lasts a few months | Lasts up to a year |
| Best For | Faster healing after treatments | Deeper skin rejuvenation & volume restoration |
Which One Is Right for You?
- Choose PRP if you want quick healing and collagen stimulation for microneedling or hair restoration.
- Choose PRF if you need longer-lasting results for facial rejuvenation, especially for under-eye hollowness or acne scars.
- If you’re unsure, Mirabile M.D. can customize a treatment plan that fits your skin goals.
Key Takeaways
- PRP and PRF both use your own blood to stimulate skin healing and collagen production.
- PRF is a more advanced form of PRP, offering higher growth factor concentration and longer-lasting benefits.
- PRP is ideal for faster healing after treatments, while PRF is better for volume loss and deep rejuvenation.
- PRF does not use anticoagulants, allowing for a slow, sustained release of growth factors.
- Mirabile M.D. offers both PRP and PRF treatments, customized for optimal skin renewal.
FAQs
1. Is PRF better than PRP for skin rejuvenation?
PRF offers higher concentrations of growth factors and a longer-lasting effect, making it better for under-eye rejuvenation, facial volume loss, and deep skin renewal. However, PRP is still highly effective for microneedling and hair restoration.
2. How long does PRF last compared to PRP?
PRF results can last up to a year, while PRP typically lasts a few months. PRF’s slow release of growth factors makes it more effective over time.
3. Is PRF painful?
Both PRP and PRF involve a simple blood draw and injections or microneedling application. Most patients experience minimal discomfort with numbing applied beforehand.
4. Can PRP or PRF be combined with other treatments?
Yes! PRP and PRF are often paired with microneedling, laser treatments, and fillers for enhanced skin rejuvenation.
5. Where can I get PRP or PRF treatments?
Mirabile M.D. Beauty, Health & Wellness offers PRP and PRF treatments, customized for your skin’s unique needs.
