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PRF vs PRP at a glance
- Shared: made from your own blood; supports skin renewal and collagen gradually, not instantly like a filler
- PRP: platelet-rich plasma, usually prepared with an anticoagulant; liquid
- PRF: prepared without an anticoagulant; a fibrin network that releases growth factors more slowly
- What studies show: PRF is the newer generation; around the eyes PRF did better for texture and wrinkles, PRP has stronger evidence for pigmentation
- Not a filler replacement: no immediate, measurable volume
- The choice depends on your skin and goals; the doctor decides at consultation
What PRF and PRP have in common
Both PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) are autologous: a small sample of your blood is drawn and centrifuged, and the platelet concentrate is placed back into the skin with fine needles. Platelets carry growth factors that stimulate fibroblasts, collagen production and tissue repair. Results are gradual, over weeks and months.
What is the difference?
PRP is usually prepared with an anticoagulant so it stays liquid. It is plasma with concentrated platelets. Laboratory work suggests PRP may release some growth factors faster.
PRF is usually prepared without an anticoagulant, so a fibrin network forms naturally. Injectable PRF (i-PRF) is liquid at first and gradually turns into a gel. Some PRF formulations release growth factors more slowly and steadily [1].
There is also a gelled form of PRP that works as a „natural filler“: PRP Cellular Matrix, which ESTERA also offers.
What the studies say: is PRF better than PRP?
Short answer: PRF is the newer generation and did better for texture and wrinkles around the eyes, while PRP has stronger evidence for pigmentation. In a direct comparison for facial rejuvenation (three treatments one month apart), PRF had a small advantage only in some parameters at the outer corner of the eye (smoothness and wrinkles), at about three months; the difference disappeared later, and patient satisfaction and side effects were the same [2]. A systematic review of 14 studies of the eye area found PRF was associated with improvement in texture, wrinkles and crepiness, while PRP had stronger evidence for hyperpigmentation; how long results last remains unclear, and PRF improvements often faded by six months [3]. Protocols vary widely between studies, so larger head-to-head trials are needed.
When is PRF chosen, and when PRP?
- Fine lines, texture and crepey skin (for example around the eyes): PRF is more often considered.
- Pigmentation, dark circles linked to pigment: PRP has stronger evidence.
- A „natural filler“ effect: PRP Cellular Matrix.
- Acne scars, recovery after sun and peels: either approach may fit; the plan depends on your skin.
These are guidelines, not rules. The final choice, number and spacing of sessions are set by the doctor at consultation.
Can PRF or PRP replace fillers?
No. Hyaluronic acid fillers add immediate, measurable volume and reshape features. PRF and PRP are regenerative treatments that improve skin quality gradually. Some PRF preparations can give temporary fullness, but this is less predictable than a filler. They are often combined with fillers, botox or microneedling.
What treatment involves at ESTERA
A small blood sample is taken, as for a routine test, and centrifuged using the protocol for the chosen method. The preparation is then placed into the skin of the treated area with fine needles. Afterwards, temporary redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness can occur and settle within days. Treatments are performed by doctors. More on the methods: PRF treatment and PRP treatment.
How many sessions?
There is no universal rule. Many studies use a series of about three treatments one month apart. At ESTERA, depending on the skin, 2-6 treatments about 4 weeks apart are usually planned. How long results last cannot be promised to everyone.
Are PRF and PRP safe?
Because they are made from your own blood, allergic reactions to the preparation itself are practically excluded. Reported short-term effects are redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness and dryness. Recent reviews reported no serious adverse events, but the research is limited and does not mean complications are impossible. Sterile blood handling, correct preparation, patient screening and a doctor who knows facial anatomy matter.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between PRP and PRF?
PRP is usually prepared with an anticoagulant and is liquid; PRF is prepared without one and forms a fibrin network that releases growth factors more slowly.
Is PRF better than PRP?
PRF is the newer generation. Around the eyes PRF did better for texture and wrinkles, PRP for pigmentation; differences are small.
Can PRF or PRP replace fillers?
No. Fillers give immediate volume; PRF and PRP improve skin quality gradually.
How many treatments are needed?
Usually a series of 2-6, individually; studies often use three.
Is it safe?
Allergic reactions are practically excluded because the preparation comes from your blood, but redness, swelling and bruising can occur, and an experienced doctor is needed.
References
- Miron RJ, Fujioka-Kobayashi M, Hernandez M, et al. Injectable platelet rich fibrin (i-PRF): opportunities in regenerative dentistry? Clin Oral Investig. 2017;21(8):2619-2627. doi:10.1007/s00784-017-2063-9
- Atsu AN, Ekinci-Aslanoglu C, Kantarci-Demirkiran Z, Caf N, Nuhoglu A. The comparison of platelet-rich plasma versus injectable platelet-rich fibrin in facial skin rejuvenation. Dermatol Ther. 2023;2023:3096698. doi:10.1155/2023/3096698
- Sollitto, Narduzzi, Wolinsky. A systematic review of platelet-rich plasma versus platelet-rich fibrin for periorbital rejuvenation. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(11). doi:10.1111/jocd.70524
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