PRP or PRF injections: what's the difference and which one to choose?
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The desire for natural results and the use of the body’s own resources has become a dominant trend in aesthetic medicine. More and more often, people are choosing methods that do not mask aging with synthetic products, but rather stimulate cell regeneration using a “fountain of youth” derived from the patient’s own blood.
However, when faced with these options, confusion often arises regarding the terminology—what exactly are PRP and PRF injections? Although both procedures are related, their extraction technology and mechanisms of action differ significantly. To provide clarity and help navigate the nuances, information is provided by Jevgenija Vladimirova, a dermatologist at the Adoria Health and Beauty Center.
In this article, you will learn:
- What is the technological difference between PRP (plasma) and PRF (fibrin).
- Which method is better for stimulating hair growth, and which is better for the under-eye area.
- Why these procedures should only be performed by a certified doctor and how to ensure safety.
What exactly do PRP and PRF mean, and what is the technological difference between the injections?
Although both abbreviations refer to preparations derived from the patient’s own blood, their structure and effects differ. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is plasma enriched with platelets, while PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) is enriched fibrin.
Professional Beauty Care clearly distinguishes between these methods. The start of the procedure is identical in both cases—a small amount of blood is drawn from a vein. However, further processing determines which product we obtain. The main difference lies precisely in the centrifugation speed and whether the blood is processed in its pure form or with the addition of special substances that prevent it from clotting.
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Blood is collected in a tube containing an anticoagulant—a substance that prevents the blood from clotting. Centrifugation separates the liquid plasma with a high concentration of platelets. When injected into the skin, the platelets rapidly release growth factors, creating a powerful but short-lived regenerative impulse.
- PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin): This is a next-generation method. Blood is collected in a tube without any chemical additives or anticoagulants. Centrifugation occurs at a lower speed, which allows not only platelets but also leukocytes and stem cells to be preserved. The result is not a liquid but a fibrin matrix (a gel-like structure).
When assessing whether PRP or PRF injections are necessary, the doctor takes into account that, in the case of PRF, growth factors are released from the fibrin network more slowly and gradually (over approximately 7 days), ensuring longer-lasting tissue regeneration.
In which cases is PRP therapy the more effective choice?
The PRP method has been known worldwide for a long time and has proven itself excellently in situations where rapid and extensive improvement of tissue blood supply and nourishment is required. Since the preparation is liquid, it is easy to administer to large areas using mesotherapy techniques. PRP injections are most commonly recommended:
- For treating hair loss (alopecia): it is one of the most effective methods for nourishing and “reawakening” hair follicles. If you are concerned about excessive hair loss and want to gain a deeper understanding of its causes, you will find valuable information by reading the article “Why Hair Falls Out and When to See a Trichologist”.
- To improve skin tone and radiance: if your facial skin looks tired, dull, and lacks vitality.
- For recovery: to speed up skin regeneration after aggressive laser procedures or chemical peels.
In terms of results, this method is often compared to biorevitalization, as both procedures provide deep hydration. In the case of PRP, this is achieved by utilizing the body’s own internal resources and bioactive substances, which is an excellent alternative for patients who prefer 100% natural solutions.
Photo: freepik.com/Freepik
When should PRF or i-PRF injections be preferred?
PRF is considered the next step in regenerative medicine. Since this method does not use anticoagulants, the resulting material is 100% natural and forms a fibrin scaffold. This is particularly important in areas where the skin is thin or a subtle volumizing effect is needed. PRF injections are most commonly recommended:
- For under-eye area correction: this is one of the few methods that safely improves skin quality around the eyes, reducing dark circles and fine lines without the risk of swelling.
- To reduce deeper wrinkles: fibrin acts as a natural filler, helping to smooth out, for example, pronounced furrows that extend from the nose to the corners of the mouth.
- To improve acne scars and skin texture: thanks to the slow release of growth factors and stem cells, active tissue regeneration and collagen synthesis occur, which significantly improve skin structure, increase elasticity, and smooth out micro-relief.
Can these procedures be combined with other aesthetic procedures?
Photo: adoria.lv
Yes, regenerative medicine methods work very well in combination with other aesthetic dermatology procedures, creating a synergistic effect. PRP or PRF injections are often included in a comprehensive treatment plan.
For example, to address the problem of expression lines, the therapy can be combined with botulinum toxin injections. While botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles and prevents the formation of new wrinkles, plasma injections improve the quality and structure of the skin itself directly in the problem areas. However, the sequence and intervals of the procedures must be strictly followed, which are carefully evaluated and determined by the doctor during the consultation.
Are PRP and PRF injections safe, and who is authorized to perform them?
The greatest advantage of PRP and PRF injections is their complete compatibility with the patient’s body. Since the preparation is derived from the patient’s own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or rejection is eliminated. However, this does not mean that the procedure can be performed by any beauty specialist.
According to Latvian law, injections involving the processing of blood products are considered a medical procedure. It may only be performed by a certified physician (dermatologist, surgeon) and only at an officially registered medical facility. This is critically important not only for sterility but also for professional execution.
The doctor must have a thorough understanding of facial anatomy to administer injections at the correct depth and in safe areas. Unprofessional practice can lead not only to the risk of infection but also to serious complications, so you should entrust your health only to qualified specialists.
Want to find out which method is right for you?
Photo: adoria.lv
Although both methods are effective, achieving the best results requires a personalized approach. Only an experienced specialist, after assessing your skin condition and type of aging, will be able to accurately determine whether you need PRP or PRF injections, or perhaps a combination of both. If you want to restore your skin’s radiance naturally and learn more about your options, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Adoria’s dermatologists by calling +371 67 315 000 or by filling out the form on our website.