Summary: Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) under-eye injections aim to improve dark circles, crepey skin, and hollows using your own blood. Evidence suggests PRF can improve skin quality and fine lines, with a safety profile similar to other injectables when performed in a medical setting.
What PRF Is—and Why It Is Used Under the Eyes
PRF is a second-generation, blood-derived concentrate. Your blood is drawn and spun at a lower speed than PRP, creating a fibrin matrix rich in platelets and white blood cells. This matrix releases growth factors slowly. The goal is better skin quality and gradual softening of fine lines.
Under the eyes, injectors use small amounts of PRF to target thin skin, mild volume loss, and texture. Patients choose it when they want a “natural” option that uses their own blood rather than a synthetic filler.
Does PRF Under the Eyes Work?
What the research shows
- A 2022 split-face study found greater improvement in skin texture and laxity with PRF than with PRP, with strong patient satisfaction. While not tear-trough specific, it supports PRF’s rejuvenation effects.
- Dermatology guidance notes that platelet-based aesthetic treatments are still building evidence, so patient selection and medical oversight matter.
What to expect in real life
Most patients see early changes in 2–6 weeks, with continued improvement over several months as growth factors act. Results appear subtle and natural. They tend to improve crepiness and shadows more than deep hollows.
PRF vs. Fillers Under the Eyes
PRF works by skin improvement and gentle collagen stimulation. It can brighten and soften.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers create instant volume to lift a groove.
Many under-eye plans use PRF first to improve skin, then small, precise HA filler later if volume is still needed. This layered approach aims for smooth texture with minimal product. (Ask your injector which sequence fits your anatomy.)
PRF vs. PRP Under the Eyes
PRP and PRF both use your platelets. PRF’s fibrin network releases growth factors more slowly, which may support longer-lasting tissue effects in some patients. Studies comparing the two show equal or better aesthetic outcomes with PRF for skin quality. Your provider may still choose PRP in some cases due to handling and flow characteristics.
How PRF Works in the Tear Trough.
PRF under eye treatment offers a natural approach for the delicate eye area. Using platelet rich fibrin PRF from your own blood, clinicians place a small amount into the treatment area of the tear troughs and eye hollows to improve skin texture while stimulating collagen. Unlike dermal fillers, PRF platelet rich fibrin focuses on platelets and growth factors, releasing growth factors slowly to support repair.
In comparisons of PRP and PRF, both prp platelet rich plasma and PRF aim to rejuvenate, but PRF forms a fibrin matrix that extends the release of growth factors for longer activity. This method suits patients who want subtle brightening and firmness that aligns with aesthetic goals. Because it is autologous, the risk of allergic reaction remains low when performed in a medical setting.
Your provider can discuss treatment options, session number, and placement to match anatomy, maximize results, and keep the under-eye contour smooth.
Safety, Setting, and Chicago-Specific Updates
Under-eye injections must be performed by qualified medical professionals with sterile technique. In 2024, Illinois regulators (IDFPR and IDPH) issued a joint memo reminding med spas to maintain physician oversight and infection-control standards for services including platelet-based procedures. This is relevant to all Chicago clinics and patients.
National dermatology guidance also stresses that platelet procedures are promising but not fully proven for every cosmetic use, so informed consent is key.
PRF Under Eyes: Results Timeline & Longevity
- After treatment: Mild swelling or bruising can occur and usually settles within days.
- Early results: 2–6 weeks as PRF integrates and releases growth factors.
- Peak changes: 3–6 months as collagen remodeling progresses.
- How long results last: Many patients refresh every 6–12 months, depending on skin quality, sleep, allergies, and sun exposure. Evidence in facial rejuvenation supports durable, measurable improvements over time with PRF.
Cost Considerations in Chicago
PRF under-eye cost varies by the number of sessions, clinician experience, and whether you pair it with microneedling or fillers. Expect a personalized plan after an in-person assessment. (We will provide transparent pricing at consultation.)
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- You have dark circles, fine lines, or crepiness rather than very deep hollows.
- You prefer autologous treatments and accept gradual change.
- You can complete a series (often 2–3 sessions) and follow aftercare.
- You do not have a blood disorder, active infection, or recent use of blood thinners unless cleared by your physician.
PRF Under Eyes: Before and After—What Impacts Results?
Lifestyle, sleep, allergies, hydration, and sun protection all affect the under-eye area. Technique, depth, and product handling also matter. Choose a clinic with medical oversight, imaging-based anatomy training, and strict sterilization protocols.
FAQs
Does PRF help dark circles?
Yes, PRF can brighten pigment-like shadows caused by thin skin and micro-vessels. It is less effective for true pigment or strong genetic hollows. Combination plans often work best. PMC
How many sessions will I need?
Most plans start with 2–3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, then maintenance 1–2 times per year.
Is PRF FDA-approved for under eyes?
Devices that prepare platelet concentrates may have FDA clearance for processing blood, but cosmetic under-eye use is off-label and should be discussed with your physician.
How We Do It at PURE (Chicago)
Our clinicians assess tear-trough anatomy, skin thickness, and venous show. We may begin with PRF, then refine with micro-dosed HA filler if needed. We also suggest skin-health add-ons such as HydraFacial MD with Dermaplaning to support brightness and texture between sessions.
Internal links: PURE Medical Spa — PRF & PRP and HydraFacial MD + Dermaplaning.
Bottom Line
Does PRF under the eyes work? For the right candidate, yes. Studies show meaningful gains in skin quality, fine lines, and overall appearance, and many patients value that it uses their own blood. Results are gradual and improve with a series. Work with a qualified Chicago medical team that follows the latest safety guidance and builds a plan tailored to your eyes. PMCIDFPR
References
- American Academy of Dermatology — guidance on platelet-based cosmetic procedures. American Academy of Dermatology
- Comparative and review data on PRF/PRP for facial rejuvenation. PMC
- Illinois IDFPR/IDPH 2024 joint memo on med spa safety and oversight. IDFPR
