Innovations in regenerative medicine take time to prove their worth. That’s exactly the case with PRP and PRF. While they might seem like the latest trend, these treatments have been researched, tested, and refined for decades.
Yet, people still have questions, and that’s 100% reasonable. Do PRP injections actually work? Is PRF better? How do they help with skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, and injury treatments?
The fact is that PRP has been used for over 50 years in skincare, aesthetics, and injury recovery. It has a well-documented history. What do Angelina Jolie, Kim Kardashian, Tiger Woods, and Kobe Bryant all have in common? PRP.
Of course, their reasons were completely different. Angelina and Kim sought it for skin rejuvenation, while Tiger and Kobe used it for faster injury recovery.
You’ve probably heard about PRF as the “next evolution” in regenerative medicine. But this isn’t just a PRP vs PRF benefits debate. Both are backed by science. Both use growth factors to boost healing. But they work in different ways and offer distinct benefits.
So, which one is right for you? I’m Dr. G, MD, a certified regenerative medicine physician—and I’m here with expert answers, so let’s dive in.
What Are PRP and PRF?
Let’s start with the basics. PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma, and PRF stands for Platelet-Rich Fibrin. While they aren’t the same, both are regenerative medicine treatments that follow a similar process:
- Blood extraction
- Minimal centrifuge processing
- Reinjection into the treated area.
So, exactly what is PRP? Platelet-Rich Plasma is a liquid concentrate packed with growth factors and platelets extracted from the blood. It’s spun at higher speeds in a centrifuge with anticoagulants to prevent clotting. This ensures an immediate release of growth factors upon injection.
PRP first became popular in the mid-80s for surgical recovery. It has since become a go-to treatment for skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, and injury healing.
Now, what is PRF? Platelet-Rich Fibrin has a thicker, gel-like consistency because it undergoes a slower centrifugation process without anticoagulants. When injected, PRF forms a fibrin matrix, allowing a slow release of growth factors over 7–10 days.
This is why many refer to PRF as the next-generation PRP—it provides longer-lasting collagen production, wound healing, and natural volume enhancement. But before you assume PRF is better than PRP, hold on.
It’s not as simple as one replacing the other. Their differences in composition and application lead to distinct benefits. That is what I will talk about next.
Key Differences Between PRP and PRF
Both PRP and PRF come from the patient’s blood, but their composition makes all the difference.
Since PRP has added anticoagulants, it remains in a liquid state, delivering an instant release of healing factors. This makes it a fast-acting treatment, ideal for sports medicine, where quick recovery is essential.
PRF, on the other hand, is processed at a lower speed, without additives. When injected, it forms a fibrin matrix that slowly releases growth factors over 7 to 10 days. Today it is a preferred choice for natural, gradual beauty and rejuvenation treatments.
You can even spot the difference straight from the blood tube. PRP separates into three layers: a deep red layer at the bottom (red blood cells), a middle layer (platelets and white cells), and a top layer of Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP). Only the middle layer is used in PRP treatments.
With PRF, you get just two layers with a gradient look. The top layer is packed with platelets, white blood cells, and stem cells—this is what’s reinjected. The bottom layer consists of red blood cells, which are discarded.
So, what does this mean for results? PRP has been around for decades, making it the more researched and tested option. PRF is newer, but comparative studies suggest it provides added benefits for deep wrinkle treatments and even acne scars.
But when it comes to muscles and joints, the story shifts. PRP has been proven effective for tendon and ligament injuries, particularly Achilles tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, and mild cartilage damage.
Benefits of PRP vs PRF
So, does this mean PRP is better for injury recovery and PRF is better for beauty? That’s the general idea. PRF is slowly replacing PRP in certain aesthetic and anti-aging treatments because of its slow, sustained growth factor release.
But the answer isn’t that simple.
PRF also has strong potential for scar tissue regeneration, while PRP remains the go-to for faster healing. And in some cases, they work even better together. Let’s see how.
The benefits of PRP: Faster Healing
Since PRP releases growth factors immediately, it’s still the preferred choice for treatments where fast recovery and visible results matter. We’re talking about arthritis, sprains, knee pain, rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
PRP is also widely used for post-laser and post-surgery healing, making it a key treatment in sports medicine—Tiger Woods and Kobe Bryant know this well. And now, so do you.
But PRP isn’t just for recovery. Remember Angelina Jolie and Kim Kardashian’s experiences with PRP? They both shared how PRP works wonders for beauty and skin rejuvenation. That means reducing dark circles, fine lines, acne scars, and improving overall skin texture.
Ever heard of the famous “Vampire Facial”? That’s Microneedling + PRP, a powerhouse combo for skin renewal and collagen stimulation.
PRP is also a popular treatment for androgenic alopecia—what we commonly refer to as hair loss. Since it’s easier to inject into the scalp than PRF, it remains a popular choice for hair restoration.
Yet, one of the most interesting developments in regenerative medicine for hair restoration is the combination of PRP and PRF: It boosts follicle stimulation for even better results.
The benefits of PRF: Lasting Healing
This combo approach brings us to the next step beyond PRP. Since PRF releases growth factors gradually, it’s better suited for long-term skin regeneration and deep tissue healing.
PRF certainly offers great potential for cutting-edge beauty treatments.
You’ve probably heard of PRF as a natural alternative to dermal fillers. Many patients—especially women—seek a natural way to restore volume in their cheeks and lips. With its thicker consistency and collagen-stimulating properties, PRF leads to firmer, smoother skin with longer-lasting anti-aging benefits.
PRF has also gained popularity for treating wrinkles, skin discoloration, and sun spots. And it’s not just for the face—it’s also effective for scars and stretch marks anywhere on the body.
So, as you can see, PRP vs PRF isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. But there is a proven approach to help patients find the right treatment for their needs.
PRP vs PRF – Which One Is Better for You?
At True Contour, we see patients with all kinds of goals. Some want faster healing after an injury. Others are looking for long-lasting skin rejuvenation.
Different stories, different goals. That’s why choosing between PRP and PRF isn’t about which one is better—it’s about what works for you. Every treatment plan is built around your needs, lifestyle, and desired results.
As your go-to regenerative medicine center in Scottsdale, that’s always our approach: personalized, transparent, and professional.
During consultations, we go over your concerns, expectations, and comfort level. We talk about how many sessions you’ll need, recovery times, and whether PRP or PRF is the right fit.
Yes, for anti-aging and facial rejuvenation, PRF is taking the lead. Patients seeking natural volume restoration, collagen stimulation, and wrinkle reduction benefit from its slow release of growth factors.
For active individuals and chronic pain patients, PRP remains the go-to. We’ve treated everything from knee pain to rotator cuff injuries and tendonitis, all cases where fast-acting PRP injections helped speed up recovery and reduce inflammation.
No matter the case, we always find the right answer—what to expect and the next steps to take.
What to Know Before Getting PRP or PRF
Choosing PRP or PRF is an investment in your skin, hair, or recovery—but like any treatment, it’s important to know what to expect.
Here are a few key things we usually go through before starting any treatment:
Patients’ Health Plays a Role in PRP and PRF Results
Since both treatments use your own blood, results depend on your overall health, lifestyle, and ability to heal. Staying hydrated, eating well, and avoiding smoking can enhance your results and support better recovery.
Not all PRP & PRF treatments are equal.
The quality of PRP and PRF depends on the provider, technique, and equipment used. Choosing a specialized regenerative medicine center like True Contour, ensures proper protocols, preparation, and safety.
Do PRP and PRF Hurt?
Most people aren’t fans of needles—we get it. But PRP and PRF are not painful procedures. Patients typically experience mild swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection site. These effects fade within a few days, but full results develop over weeks or months as collagen builds and tissue repairs.
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications before and after treatment
Since PRP and PRF trigger your body’s natural healing response, using NSAIDs (like aspirin and ibuprofen) can interfere with the process. We’ll guide you on what to take and what to avoid before your session.
How Many Sessions are Needed
It depends on your case and the treatment plan. Some patients see great results after just one session, while others—depending on the condition and desired outcome—may need multiple treatments for the best results.
How To Choose Between PRP and PRF
By now, you know PRP and PRF share the same foundation—your own platelets, growth factors, and healing power. But their differences in composition and effects make them better suited for different goals.
Both treatments offer benefits that can enhance how you look, how you feel, and your overall quality of life.
Maybe you’re considering PRP to treat a chronic condition like tendonitis, knee pain, or rotator cuff injuries.
Or perhaps, after learning about the anti-aging power of PRF, you’re excited about reducing wrinkles, restoring volume, and boosting collagen production.
Whatever your story, we’d love to hear it at True Contour and help you decide the best path forward. We’ll walk you through your options, your concerns, and what works best for your body and goals.
So, PRP or PRF? Schedule a consultation today, and let’s find the answer that’s right for you.
