PRF (platelet rich fibrin) usually costs more than PRP (platelet rich plasma) because it needs stricter preparation, specialized kits and equipment, more clinician time, and often fewer but denser treatment sessions for delicate treatment areas like the under-eyes. The fibrin matrix in PRF supports the sustained release of growth factors, which many providers value for texture change and wound-healing processes.
Difference between PRP and PRF (what you pay for)
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrate that concentrates platelets in plasma. It is prepared in tubes with an anticoagulant and spun in a standard centrifuge.
Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) skips the anticoagulant. It uses a low-speed, short spin so more platelets and some white blood cells remain in a soft fibrin matrix. The spin must start within ~90–120 seconds of the draw, and many protocols prefer horizontal (swing-out) centrifuges for even layers. These steps add cost but help preserve cells and support a slower growth-factor release.
This biology matters for fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, and thin skin under the eyes. PRF’s matrix can give a sustained release of growth factors (including platelet derived growth factor), while traditional PRP often releases factors faster. The slower profile can support effective treatments that aim to remodel tissue, not just boost hydration.
Six cost drivers that make PRF pricier than PRP
- Preparation method and supplies. PRF uses specific tubes, low-speed protocols, and often a horizontal centrifuge. The no-anticoagulant method means tighter timing and handling, which raises supply and equipment costs versus typical PRP kits.
- Clinician time and workflow. Because the clock starts at the blood draw, teams book fewer overlaps. Extra attention shows up in the fee.
- Dose density and treatment design. PRF injections are often delivered in fewer, denser treatment sessions for delicate treatment areas (for example, prf vs prp under eyes).
- Protocol variability and quality controls. PRF protocols vary (speed, time, rotor type). Clinics invest in training and QA to keep results consistent.
- Evidence by indication. PRP hair treatment results show growing support and prp success rates in female hair loss; PRF evidence is expanding in facial rejuvenation. Pricing often reflects this evidence map.
- Higher unit value. Even with a series, PRF sessions are positioned as higher-value because of sustained release of growth and tissue support.
Where PRF can justify the premium
- Under-eyes (tear trough, skin quality). Thin skin may benefit from gradual factor release and gentle volume from the fibrin matrix. Providers use prp or prf under eyes based on goals; many prefer PRF for support with fewer additives.
- Texture change and acne scars. Clinics choose PRF for acne scars when collagen remodeling is the goal and pair it with needling or lasers to optimize results.
- Face rejuvenation generally. PRF supports healing processes after energy treatments and can complement prf vs prp for face plans that target signs of aging.
- Hair restoration. For stimulate hair growth and hair regrowth, many start with prp platelet rich plasma because of its broader treatment options and data in women; PRF may be added as protocols mature.
PRF vs PRP pricing in Chicago: what to expect
Local fees vary by location, clinician experience, and plan design. In Chicago, practices often price PRF above PRP. PRF under eyes cost will depend on how much product your plan needs, whether we add microneedling or laser, and visit length. The best method is to price the treatment plans for your treatment areas, not a single session, so the price of prp and prf is clear up front.
How to choose for your goal
- Choose PRF when you need a sustained release effect in thin or delicate skin, when smoothing fine lines and wrinkles is a priority, or when you want a gentler matrix without anticoagulant.
- Choose PRP when the indication has stronger published data today (for example, female-pattern hair loss) and when more frequent, budget-friendly visits fit your schedule.
- We can also combine prp prf injections across areas or stages.
FAQs (quick answers)
Q1. How much is PRF?
How much is prf varies by plan. A denser session and longer chair time usually increase cost. Under-eye plans often need fewer visits but longer prep.
Q2. Why does PRF under the eyes cost more than PRP?
It needs rapid, precise prep separating the platelets without anticoagulant, strict timing, and careful handling, which adds cost.
Q3. Are there side effects?
Both PRP and PRF are autologous (your own blood component). Typical side effects are brief redness or swelling at injection sites. Serious events are rare with proper sterile technique.
Q4. “If PRP and PRF normal?”
Patients often ask if prp and prf normal blood-based options. Yes. They are prepared from your own blood; the difference between prp and prf is the presence or absence of anticoagulant and the spin method.
Q5. Do platelet concentration levels matter?
Yes. Protocols affect platelet concentration and cell makeup. Technique and rotor type can change yields, which is why training and QA matter.
Key takeaways
- Biology drives price. PRF’s fibrin matrix supports sustained release of growth factors for tissue remodeling.
- Process drives price. Tight timing, specialized devices, and horizontal centrifuges raise overhead versus PRP.
- Evidence guides choice. PRP holds stronger data for female hair loss; PRF is rising in facial applications.
Plan your next step (Chicago): Book a consultation at our River North (N. Dearborn), Skokie (Old Orchard), Oakbrook, or Roscoe Village locations. We will map goals, review benefits of prp and PRF, and build clear treatment options to match budget and results.
References
- Miron RJ. Ten years of injectable platelet-rich fibrin — growth-factor dynamics and matrix biology. Wiley Online Library
- Dashore S. Platelet-Rich Fibrin: Preparation and Use in Dermatology — no anticoagulant, timing, and centrifuge guidance. PMC
- Yuan J. Effectiveness of PRP in female hair loss: systematic review and meta-analysis. PMC
