Both come from your own blood. The processing difference produces a meaningful clinical difference.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) are both autologous, meaning derived from your own blood. They are used for skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, and orthopaedic applications. Their processing differs, and that difference matters clinically.
The shared foundation. Both start with a small blood draw. The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate its components. Both concentrate platelets, which release growth factors that support tissue repair and cellular regeneration when placed back into the target tissue.
How PRP is made. Higher-speed centrifugation, sometimes with anticoagulant added. The resulting plasma is liquid and typically injected within minutes of processing. Growth factors are released relatively quickly after injection.
How PRF is made. Lower-speed centrifugation, no anticoagulant. The resulting product is a fibrin matrix that concentrates platelets, white blood cells (including stem-cell-adjacent monocytes), and growth factors within a scaffold structure. Because the fibrin holds everything together, the growth factors are released more gradually over 7 to 10 days rather than in a rapid burst.
Clinical implications of the difference. PRP is faster to prepare and can be delivered with more precision (topical, injection, or infusion into microneedling). PRF has a longer release window and often produces a more sustained clinical response in the same tissue, particularly for regenerative uses.
Where we use each. PRP for post-microneedling infusion, when we want a fast release of growth factors to accelerate healing. PRF for scalp injections for hair restoration, where the longer release window supports follicle stimulation. PRF for facial skin rejuvenation when we want a slower, more regenerative response.
The session. Blood draw (about 20 to 60ml depending on protocol), 10 to 15 minutes of centrifugation while the client waits, then application (topical after microneedling) or injection (facial or scalp). Total appointment time approximately 45 to 75 minutes.
Downtime. Some pinpoint redness or bruising from the injections. Facial swelling for 24 to 48 hours is common with PRF facial injections. Full activity same day.
Session cadence. Typically three sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, then a review to plan maintenance. Hair restoration protocols often use a longer initial course of six sessions.
Who these treatments suit. Clients wanting a regenerative treatment that uses their own biology. Clients preferring to avoid synthetic injectables. Clients with early hair thinning where medical treatment plus PRF has better outcomes than either alone.
Who they do not suit. Clients on blood-thinning medications (relative). Clients with active infection at the treatment site. Clients with certain haematological conditions, which we screen for.
The honest read. PRP and PRF are both legitimate regenerative options, and the choice between them depends on what tissue is being treated and what release profile suits the goal. Not every clinic explains the difference, we do because it matters to the outcome.