PRP vs PRF—which is more effective? PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) are both repairing, skin rejuvenation treatments that use the super healing growth factors in your own blood. PRP treatments are popularly known as vampire facials. These treatments are very similar and highly effective, with a few key differences. Let’s take a look at both treatments:
What are PRP and PRF?
PRP and PRF are natural growth factors found in your own blood. Rich in platelets, white blood cells, and fibrin (in the case of PRF), these substances stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and new skin cells. Both treatments are effective in treating fine lines and wrinkles, and improving tone and texture, and fading dark spots and other signs of aging.
PRP and PRF are typically used to treat under eye dark circles, nasolabial folds, cheeks, smile lines, lips, and chin. It is also used on the scalp to stimulate hair growth and can be used to firm the hands, décolleté, and for neck rejuvenation.
PRP vs PRF—how do they work?
Both PRP and PRF work by kickstarting new cell growth and collagen production. When your body is injured, in this case by microneedling, or an injection, the platelets in your blood become activated and release growth factors. These growth factors start the wound healing process by creating new skin cells, collagen, elastin, and blood vessels. This results in firmer, plumper skin, and a reduction in fine lines and dark spots.
PRP vs PRF—what’s the difference?
The difference between these treatments lies primarily in how your blood is collected prior to treatment. With PRP, your blood is spun in a centrifuge at high speed, completely separating the plasma layer. With PRF your blood is spun at a lower speed so that some of the white blood cells, stem cells, and fibrin remain in the platelet layer. The slow spin also means fewer cells are damaged which leaves a higher concentration of healing platelets. PRF contains approximately 10 times the platelet concentration that is found within the body, whereas PRP contains roughly 2-5 times.
Another notable difference is the use of anticoagulants. A PRP treatment is added to a vial containing anticoagulants, which prevent the blood from clotting during injection. With PRF, no anticoagulants are added. This allows for the creation of a spongy fibrin matrix that signals the platelets to release their growth factors slowly. PRP releases growth factors for a few hours and PRF releases them for up to a week. This slow release is thought to have more robust, longer-lasting results.
The final difference is how the treatments are used. PRP is typically performed as a facial or microneedling session while PRF is used like a filler. The fibrin and slow-release growth factors in PRF build volume in the skin, so this natural filler is a wonderful alternative to synthetic filler.
Which treatment is right for me?
PRP is most effective if you have uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, or fine lines and wrinkles. You should see an improvement in the texture of your skin and a reduction in scarring and dark spots within a month. For optimal results, PRP requires 3-4 treatments, 4 weeks apart. PRP is not as effective on deep wrinkles or hollows.
PRF will address all the same issues as PRP, but it’s a better option if you have deeper wrinkles, hollows, or more advanced signs of aging. PRF is often called a natural filler because it’s highly effective at building volume. You can expect to see results approximately 2-3 weeks following your treatment, and a larger difference by 4-6 weeks. For optimal results, PRF requires at least 2 treatments, 6 months apart. Results may differ if you combine PRF with other treatments like microneedling.
Because PRP and PRF use your own blood, both treatments are extremely safe with a very low chance of adverse reaction. If you have a blood or bleeding disorder, or you’re on anti-clotting or blood thinning medications, you are not a good candidate for PRP or PRF treatments. Whichever treatment you choose, you’ll be a natural beauty.
If you have further questions about these treatments, or any of our treatments, you can contact me directly at the VBeauty Spa. PRP and PRF are proven procedures with many great benefits, and I’m delighted to provide them here in Toronto. Book your free consultation today.
