Aging changes more than lines on the surface. Blood flow slows, skin cells get less oxygen and nutrients, and gene expression that supports repair can drop. Chronic inflammation and chronic disease can speed that change. The result: fine lines and wrinkles, laxity, dull tone, and under-eye hollows or dark circles.
PRP and PRF use your own blood to signal repair. Both are popular for face, neck, and under-eyes. This guide explains how they differ, what results to expect, and how to pick the right option for you.
PRP vs PRF, in plain terms
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is plasma with a high concentration of platelets and growth factors. It stays liquid. Injectors can place it with needles or pair it with microneedling to improve skin texture and elasticity.
PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is spun more slowly, without anticoagulant. It forms a soft fibrin matrix (a gel-like clot) that traps platelets and white cells. That matrix releases growth factors more steadily over time. Studies show PRF tends to release growth factors over many days, while PRP peaks earlier, then tapers.
What time and biology do to skin
With time, the layers of skin thin. Fewer nutrients reach the dermis. Oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation rise. These shifts alter gene expression that controls collagen and elastin.
If you also manage a chronic disease (for example, diabetes), repair may slow further. Treatments that nudge healing like PRP or PRF aim to reset this balance in a gentle, biologic way.
Results, downtime, and longevity
Results:
- PRP often shows quicker, early radiance because growth factors are available fast.
- PRF builds more gradually as the fibrin holds and sustained-release signals continue for days. Early comparative work supports this kinetic difference.
Downtime:
- Expect mild swelling, redness, or pinpoint bruising for 1–3 days for both.
- Under-eyes can look puffy for 24–72 hours. Cool compresses help.
Longevity:
- Many patients notice PRF results last longer between visits because of its slower release. Clinical facial studies report favorable, longer-term effects and high satisfaction, though more large trials are needed.
Under-eyes and face: where each shines
Under-eyes (hollows/dark circles):
PRF’s soft gel and slower release make it a strong choice for delicate tissue. In small clinical studies, intradermal PRF improved fine lines and pigmentation with good safety.
Texture, acne scars, tone (full face):
Microneedling with PRP has robust evidence for acne scars and texture. A meta-analysis shows adding PRP to microneedling improves clinical outcomes and satisfaction versus microneedling alone, without higher adverse events. If your main goal is smoother skin, PRP + microneedling is a data-backed plan.
Neck and crepey areas:
Both options help by signaling collagen. Choose based on desired speed (PRP) versus staying power between visits (PRF), your downtime, and budget.
How PRP/PRF Pair With Other Treatments
When choosing between platelet rich plasma prp and platelet rich fibrin prf, think about how each pairs with other treatment options to match your aesthetic goals. PRP has a higher concentration of platelets, so platelets and growth factors reach the blood vessels fast.
This often improves skin texture quickly, especially when combined with gentle laser treatments or microneedling. PRF builds results more gradually, with a sustained release of growth signals from its fibrin matrix an advantage for thin, delicate areas like the under-eyes. Many patients choose a blended plan: prp and platelet rich signaling for early glow, followed by prf offering longer support between visits.
You can also pair either option with hyaluronic acid fillers, placed conservatively, to restore structure while biologic treatments upgrade skin quality. Typical side effect profiles are mild for both approaches: brief redness, swelling, or pinpoint bruising that fades within days.
Space energy devices and injections as directed to limit bruising near active blood vessels. Used in the right sequence, PRP and PRF act as effective treatments to lift tone, smooth texture, and refresh fine lines. Your provider can help time each step so you see steady gains now and maintain them over the long term.
Common questions
Does PRF last longer than PRP for anti-aging?
Often yes, in practice, because PRF releases growth factors steadily over days. That can translate to less frequent maintenance once you reach your goal. Evidence for release kinetics supports this, while long-term head-to-head facial trials remain limited.
Is PRF better than PRP for under-eye rejuvenation?
For many, yes. PRF’s matrix sits nicely in thin tissue and can soften hollows and color over time. Expect a series of visits for best results.
How many PRF sessions do I need vs PRP?
Typical plans start with 2–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, then maintenance every 6–12 months. Your plan may vary by age, skin quality, and goals.
PRP vs PRF: which gives faster results?
PRP usually gives quicker glow; PRF often gives steadier, longer-lasting change due to sustained release.
Safety notes
Both treatments use your own blood (low allergy risk). Expect temporary swelling or bruising. You should avoid treatment if you are pregnant, have active infection, a bleeding disorder, uncontrolled autoimmune disease, or recent isotretinoin use. Discuss medications that affect clotting. Choose clinics that follow sterile technique and use validated preparation systems.
Quick decision guide
- You want fast glow or are pairing with microneedling for acne scars: choose PRP. Evidence is strong here.
- You want fewer maintenance visits and subtle volume support under the eyes: choose PRF.
- You have fine lines, uneven texture, and mild laxity: start with PRP + microneedling, then switch to PRF for longevity.
Our “Best-in-Class” approach (Chicago)
At PURE Medical Spa in River North, we design a layered plan: assessment of skin quality, clear photo baselines, sterile processing, and precise placement. We often start with microneedling + PRP for texture, then add targeted PRF for under-eyes or smile lines.
- Learn about PRF for under-eyes (hollows and dark circles): [/treatments/prf-under-eyes-chicago]
- Explore PRP microneedling for texture and scars: [/treatments/prp-microneedling-chicago]
- Book a free consultation: [/book]
Tip: If you have a big event, schedule PRP 2–3 weeks before for glow, and PRF 4–6 weeks before for steady improvement.
Sources:
- Chatterjee A, et al. Comparative evaluation of growth factors from PRF and PRP (release over days; PRF steady vs PRP early peak). PMC
- Mahmoodabadi RA, et al. Intradermal PRF for facial rejuvenation: safe, long-term technique with favorable outcomes. PMC
