Often, yes, PRF can support longer-lasting biological activity than PRP because its fibrin matrix releases derived growth factors more sustainably. Clinical results still vary depending on the treatment plan, body area, and your skin biology. Evidence is growing, but direct, head-to-head aesthetic trials remain limited.
PRP vs PRF in plain language
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) comes from your blood sample. A centrifuge separates red cells from plasma and concentrating platelets gives a fluid rich in growth factors that play an important role in the natural healing process.
PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is spun at lower speeds and without anticoagulant. That lets a soft fibrin clot form (think of a natural scaffold). Cells and growth factors sit inside this mesh, which supports cell migration, access to oxygen and nutrients, and signaling to nearby mesenchymal stem cells in connective tissue.
Quick Take
Among minimally invasive treatment options in regenerative medicine, platelet rich fibrin (PRF) and platelet rich plasma (PRP) start when blood is drawn. Platelets and growth factors drive the healing process, improving skin cells, scar tissue, fine lines and wrinkles. PRF’s sustained release of growth supports the body’s natural healing longer.
Why PRF may “last longer”
A landmark study showed PRP gives a fast burst of growth factors, while advanced PRF (A-PRF) provides a sustained release over days. Several reviews confirm this longer release profile and favorable gene expression and cellular behavior with A-PRF variants. In simple terms: PRP delivers “now,” PRF delivers “now and later.”
What does that mean for you? The biologic signal that reduces inflammation, supports micro-blood vessels, and drives the layers of skin to make collagen and elastin may persist longer with PRF—especially helpful in thin areas like under-eyes. Clinical durability still depends on the parts of the body treated and habits (sleep, sun, skincare).
Science Spotlight
Choosing PRF or PRP for your aesthetic goals starts with clear science. After we draw blood samples, the products signal endothelial cells that line blood vessels. This signaling plays an important role in natural healing. It guides how each cell migrates, brings oxygen and nutrients, and removes carbon dioxide.
PRF’s fibrin mesh can recruit mesenchymal stem cells in nearby parts of the body, which may support longer benefits. Timelines vary depending age, skin, and plan. If you search online and find articles or Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, remember those sources are general. Your risk profile is personal.
Tell your provider about a history of blood clots or medicines that raise increased risk. Results cover a wide range, from texture to hair support. Use our guide’s toggle the table of contents to jump to under-eye, face, or hair sections so you can match treatment to real goals with your provider today.
How long do results last? (What patients usually notice)
Real-world timelines are guidance, not promises. Protocols differ by clinic and indication:
- Under-eyes (skin quality, crepiness):
- PRP often uses 3 sessions about 4 weeks apart, then maintenance every 3–6 months. PRF frequently needs 2–3 sessions, then maintenance closer to 6–12 months, thanks to that sustained release in the fibrin matrix.
- Face/neck skin rejuvenation (texture, fine lines):
- Expect a series (PRP 3–4, PRF 2–3), with touch-ups 2–3×/year for PRP and 1–2×/year for PRF. Combining with hyaluronic acid skincare or light resurfacing can support results.
- Hair restoration:
- Many start with monthly sessions for 3–4 months. With PRF or injectable PRF (i-PRF), clinics often stretch maintenance to every 4–6 months after the initial build. Early data favors PRF’s longer growth-factor window, but larger studies are still underway.
Remember: biology varies. Chronic stress, chronic inflammation, or chronic disease can blunt response. We set expectations upfront and adjust your treatment plan to your timeline and goals.
Safety notes you should know
Both PRP and PRF use your own blood components, so allergy risk is very low. Temporary swelling, bruising, or tenderness are common. Because PRF forms a fibrin clot, injectors must respect anatomy to avoid rare increased risk events like vascular compromise. Qualified medical providers use careful technique, often with a blunt cannula, to protect blood vessels and reduce inflammation safely.
The science, simply
- Scaffold matters: PRF’s fibrin network acts like a natural healing “sponge,” slowly releasing signals while cells migrate through it.
- Timing matters: PRP = quick peak; PRF = longer curve (days). That longer curve may extend visible benefits before you need a booster.
- Evidence is evolving: Recent reviews favor PRF’s cell activity and release profile; aesthetic head-to-head durability data are still limited, so clinics use best-practice protocols and track outcomes.
Chicago update (licensure & standards)
If you get treatment in Chicago, check your provider’s credentials. Illinois updated online licensing (CORE) in Oct 2024, and issued 2025 notices on professional requirements. A properly licensed team helps keep you safe and within state standards.
Best-in-class checklist
- Medical evaluation before treatment (medications, blood clots history).
- Clear treatment plan with session count and maintenance schedule.
- Device settings and spin times explained (so you know how PRP or PRF is made).
- Photos and measurable goals (texture scale, hair counts when applicable).
- Aftercare that supports healing (sleep, sunscreen, topical routine).
FAQ
Does PRF always last longer than PRP?
Not always, but PRF often sustains the biological signal longer. Visible results still vary depending on age, baseline laxity, and the area treated.
Can I combine PRF with hyaluronic acid filler?
Yes; many plans layer hyaluronic acid fillers for volume and use PRF for natural healing and skin quality. Your injector will space visits to reduce swelling and treatment overlap.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients need a series, then maintenance. Under-eyes: PRF 2–3 to start; face: PRF 2–3; hair: PRF or i-PRF 3–4 start, then spaced boosters.
Is there downtime?
Usually minimal: brief redness or swelling. Avoid heavy exercise the day of treatment and follow your aftercare.
Bottom line
PRF vs PRP longevity comes down to biology and release kinetics. PRF’s fibrin scaffold sustains growth-factor delivery for days, so many patients enjoy longer intervals between maintenance sessions especially in thin skin like the under-eyes. But results are individual. The best path is a clear plan, honest timelines, and follow-up to fine-tune care.
Sources
- Kobayashi et al. Comparative release of growth factors from PRP vs A-PRF (Clin Oral Investig, 2016). PubMed
- Wang et al. Kinetic release profile of L-PRF (Biology, 2022). PMC
- Pereira et al. A-PRF cellular properties & growth-factor release (Systematic review, 2023). PMC
- Asubiaro et al. PRP in aesthetic dermatology (Systematic review, 2024). PMC
- IDFPR Illinois licensing updates (2024–2025). IDFPR+1
