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PRP and PRF are the most common methods that patients request. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used for years to help improve hair growth, make skin look younger, and even treat orthopedic injuries.
On the other hand, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has become a more advanced and effective product in both musculoskeletal and anesthetic medicine. Even though the names sound alike and the treatments are used similarly, PRF differs from PRP in some critical ways.
At Eden Medical Spa, we’re proud to offer both PRP and PRF treatments. You can also count on our doctors, who are skilled in performing both methods. But to help you first, here’s how these two modern treatments work and how they differ.
PRF
PRF, or Platelet-Rich Fibrin, is a remarkable medical advancement that harnesses the power of your body’s own blood to promote healing. This innovative treatment involves spinning a small sample of your blood in a special machine called a centrifuge, which allows us to create a concentrated mixture rich in growth factors, platelets, and fibrin.
One key difference with PRF is the slower processing speed during centrifugation. This unique method results in a solution that’s packed with healing components, including white blood cells, stem cells, and more platelets than traditional methods. In fact, the slower pace allows clots to form during the process.
The magic of PRF lies in its fibrin concentration, which forms a supportive matrix or scaffold in the solution. This scaffold acts as a slow-release system, enabling the platelets to work their healing wonders over an extended period.
In essence, PRF is like your body’s own natural supercharger for healing. It’s a cutting-edge approach that can help you recover and feel your best, all with the power of your own blood.
PRP
Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP, is a specialized treatment crafted from a patient’s own blood, expertly enriched with growth factors and platelets to stimulate healing.
In the creation of PRP, the patient’s blood is spun in a centrifuge, but here’s the key difference: it’s processed at a notably faster pace. This high-speed spinning causes the heavier components in the blood to settle at the bottom, while the lighter elements like platelets and plasma are carefully collected to form PRP.
The end result of this swift process is a PRP solution with fewer platelets, which are also lighter due to the rapid processing speed. To prevent clotting during this procedure, anticoagulants are added.
It’s important to note that because of the use of anticoagulants and the absence of fibrin, PRP is recognized for releasing platelets and growth factors at a more rapid rate.
In simple terms, PRP is a medical marvel that uses your blood’s own components to kickstart healing, but it works a bit faster than its cousin PRF, making it ideal for certain applications.
PRP & PRF
PRP and PRF, often called Liquid Gold, are the best way to make the body make new cells. The first step in treating someone is getting blood from them. The blood is then sorted and used to treat the patient. PRP and PRF have a lot of great uses, like making hair grow faster, reducing scars, boosting collagen production, and more.
All About PRP
Your blood is used to make PRP. This high number of platelets moves through your blood and is a vital part of how your blood clots. Blood plasma and platelets have many essential factors that help cells find each other, multiply, and change.
All About PRF
Platelet Rich Fibrin is one of the most natural ways to cause collagen to form. PRF can be given as an injection or put on with tiny needles. Platelets from the second generation of PRP are in platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). PRF has leukocytes that help soft, and hard tissues heal faster.
PRP/PRF Difference
The most crucial difference between these treatments is how your blood is taken before treatment. With PRP, your blood is spun quickly in a centrifuge, separating the plasma layer.
With PRF, your blood is spun slower so that some white blood cells, stem cells, and fibrin stay in the platelet layer. The slow spin also means fewer cells are hurt, so more healing platelets are left.
PRF has about ten times as many platelets as what is usually found in the body, while PRP has about 2–5 times as many.
The use of anticoagulants is also a big difference. A PRP treatment is added to a vial that already has anticoagulants in it. These chemicals keep the blood from clotting when it is injected.
There are also no anticoagulants added to PRF. This makes it possible for a spongy fibrin matrix to form, which tells the platelets to release their growth factors slowly. PRP releases growth factors for a few hours and by PRF for up to a week. People think this slow release’s effects will be stronger and last longer.
How treatments are used
PRF is used as a filler, while PRP is usually done as a facial treatment or with microneedling. Because fibrin and slow-release growth factors in PRF add volume to the skin, this natural filler is an excellent alternative to fillers made from chemicals.
Treatment Areas
PRP and PRF are most often used to make the skin on the face look younger, but you can also use them to regrow hair and treat stretch marks on other parts of the body. Some of the skin problems that you can fix with PRP and PRF are:
- Small lines and creases
- Skin laxity
- Uneven color and texture of the skin
- Dull skin
- Acne scars
- Bigger pores
Results and Recovery
PRP and PRF don’t usually need any time off. Patients can return to doing what they typically do, but some may have mild pain, bruises, itching, or scabs at the treatment sites for a day or two. So it would be best to consult your physician first about this matter.
Our team at Eden Medical Spa suggests you plan two weeks ahead of any events or trips to avoid bruises and swelling from injections. When PRP/PRF is used in microneedling, the skin may be red for 1–2 days.
The first results will be seen in about three months, and the final results will be seen in 6–12 months. Once all the results are in, you’ll be able to see how the treatment rejuvenated your skin by making it brighter, healthier, and smoother.
How long do the effects of PRP/PRF often last?
Results from PRP/PRF treatments are expected to last for a long time, but they may be different for each person.
How many times should I get PRP or PRF?
The total number of treatments will vary, but we recommend three to four sessions, each about four weeks apart, followed by one or two maintenance treatments per year.
What treatment should I get?
PRP works best for people with uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, or a combination of these things. Within a month, your skin should feel better, and your blemishes and dark spots should be less noticeable.
PRP needs to be done 3–4 times, four weeks apart, for the best result. PRP doesn’t work as well on deep lines or hollows. It will fix all the same problems as PRP, but it’s a better choice if you have deeper wrinkles, hollows, or other signs of aging that are further along.
Conversely, PRF is often referred to as a natural filler because it is so good at adding volume. You should see results about two to three weeks after your treatment and a bigger change in four to six weeks.
PRF must be done at least twice, six months apart, for best results. However, the results may be different if you combine PRF with other treatments, such as microneedling.
PRP and PRF use your blood, so they are safe and have a minimal chance of making you sick. You are not a good candidate for PRP or PRF treatments if you have a blood disorder, bleed easily, or take medicines that stop blood from clotting or thinning. No matter what you do, you’ll be beautiful no matter what.
You can talk to us at Eden Medical Spa if you have more questions about these or our other treatments. PRP and PRF have been around for a long time and have been very helpful. We’re happy to offer them here in Austin, TX. Schedule your consultation today.
