PRF Injections
What are PRF injections?
Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) is an all-natural solution is derived from your own blood to naturally and safely improve skin texture, firmness, and thickness.
The process involves drawing your own blood and spinning it down in a centrifuge to separate cells responsible for skin rejuvenation. The PRF is then reinjected into your skin which stimulates healing and over time promotes new collagen production.
How does it work?
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a concentrated matrix sourced from your own blood which contains platelets, white blood cells, stem cells, and growth factors which are key factors in stimulating production of collagen and new blood vessel formation and wound healing.
Administration of this fibrin matrix results in improved skin texture, firmness, and thickness. This treatment is completely natural and organic as it comes from your own blood which is spun down in a centrifuge to separate the key components. PRF is then either injected into your skin or applied topically after microneedling treatment.
How is PRF different from PRP (platelet rich plasma)?
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) has been used in orthopedics and dentistry for decades for tissue regeneration. It' s applications have been expanded to aesthetic medicine for skin rejuvenation.
However more recently Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) has surfaced as a superior alternative.
Both PRF and PRP use blood plasma separated from red blood cells. However, unlike PRP, PRF retains blood fibrin . Fibrin is an insoluble protein that is arranged in chains that form a matrix that acts as scaffolding for platelets, white blood cells, and stem cells. This fibrin matrix allows the more growth factors to be released over a longer period (1 week). To obtain PRF, blood is spun in at lower speeds and for less time in tubes that have no additives or anti-coagulants.
To make PRP, blood is spun at higher speeds, for a longer time with the addition of anticoagulants to prevent clotting/fibrin formation. This ultimately decreases the number of platelets and concentration/release of growth factors. Growth factors in PRP are released over a much shorter period of time (hours) which can decrease the overall effectiveness of the rejuvenation process.
So compared with PRP, PRF is a more effective and potent method to achieve skin rejuvenation.
Where can PRF be injected?
Platelet Rich Fibrin can be injected in many locations to improve the overall appearance of the skin. It is most often used under the eyes prior to considering dermal fillers to provide natural results without potential complications. Other areas that may benefit from PRF injections include the cheeks, temples, jaw, chin, and scalp for hair growth PRF hair restoration. PRF is also an effective treatment for acne scars. Platelet Rich Fibrin can also be combined with CIT/miconeedling / microchanneling treatments.
It is important to understand that PRF does not take the place of dermal fillers as it is primarily used for skin rejuvenation rather than providing volume. PRF alone may not improve deep lines and advanced wrinkles in which case it can be combined with dermal fillers for volume restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is this new service painful?You betcha! 😉
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When will I see results?Results are generally visible at 3-4 weeks and continue to improve gradually over the next three to six months
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What about aftercare?Apply ice packs to scalp as needed. Avoid sun exposure to the area, heat and strenuous activity that involves excessive sweating. Avoid touching or scrubbing the area for a minimum of 12 hours after treatment. You can generally resume regular activities on the day following your procedure
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How long does it take?About 45-60 minutes
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What are common side effects?Scalp tenderness, tightness, minor bleeding, and headache are the most common side effects, directly following the procedure. These generally subside after 1-2 days. All risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation
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Is it painful?There is some discomfort associated with the injections. To minimize discomfort your provider can apply topical numbing agents and use a small vibrating anesthetic tool near area of injections
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Who is not a good candidate?People who experience complete baldness will not respond to this treatment. Procedure may not be safe for those with active scalp conditions/infections, uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer/chemotherapy, pregnancy and breastfeeding
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How long does it last?Results may last 18-24 months. Once your results are achieved yearly maintenance treatments will be required to maintain your results
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How much will I need?Generally, three treatments are advised spaced at one month apart, however, more may be indicated for some individuals
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How many treatments will I need?A series of 3-6 treatments spaced one month apart is necessary for optimal results. In one study, a series of three PRF injections resulted in significant rejuvenation of the face skin at 3 month follow up 1
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How long does it last?6-12 months depending on skin quality and skin care routine/maintenance
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What are common side effects?Minimal swelling and possible bruising
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How long does it take?The whole process should take about 30-60 minutes
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What is the aftercare?Don’t touch or rub treatment area or apply makeup on day of procedure. Avoid strenuous activity, and do not touch, rub, or apply makeup for 24 hours following the procedure
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Who is not a good candidate?Women who are pregnant. Also those with poorly controlled diabetes, active herpes in treatment area, any condition causing a suppressed immune system (active cancer, autoimmune disease, on auto immune medications) active cystic acne, open skin wounds, skin infection or other active skin condition in treatment area
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When will I see results?Most patients see improvement in 2- 4 weeks, with greater success after multiple treatments
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Is it painful?There is minimal discomfort with PRF. A cannula is used most of the time to inject PRF which causes less discomfort, skin trauma, and risk of bruising
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What is the aftercare?Avoid applying makeup for 24 hours following the procedure. Keep skin moisturized, avoid sun exposure for 2-3 few days
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Who is not a good candidate?Dermaplaning is generally safe for everyone. However, if you have an active skin condition, inflammation, or infection, you should wait until the issues are resolved before getting the procedure or consult with your medical professional
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When will I see results?Benefits are immediate
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What are common side effects?Skin may become dry and red on day of procedure. Dryness may last for a couple of days so it is important to keep your skin moisturized. Small incidental abrasions may also occur during the procedure
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Is it painful?This procedure is completely painless
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How often should I get it done?Every 4-6 weeks for maximum benefits
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How long does it take?45-60 minutes
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What is the aftercare?Patients are advised to refrain from strenuous activity for 12-24 hours post injection
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Is it painful?There is minor discomfort. Some describe it feeling like a bee sting
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How long before I see results?You may see results in as little as 2 days; however, it takes up to 14 days for full effects
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How much will I need?That depends on number of areas treated and wrinkle depth. The amount will be determined during your consultation
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How long does it last?Studies have shown results may last up to 5 months or more. On average they last 3-4 months after which additional treatments will be necessary to maintain results
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Who is not a good candidate?Those with allergies to any ingredients in the product are not good candidates. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have active facial skin infections or neuromuscular conditions (ALS, Myasthenia Gravis, Lambert Eaton Syndrome) are also not good candidates
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What are common side effects?Side effects are minimal. Most common are minor swelling and bruising at the injection site which is temporary. You provider will have a thorough discussion about all possible side effects during your consultation
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Can I insert an image, video, or gif in my FAQ?Yes. To add media follow these steps: 1. Enter the app’s Settings 2. Click on the “Manage FAQs” button 3. Select the question you would like to add media to 4. When editing your answer click on the camera, video, or GIF icon 5. Add media from your library.
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How do I add a new question & answer?To add a new FAQ follow these steps: 1. Click “Manage FAQs” button 2. From your site’s dashboard you can add, edit and manage all your questions and answers 3. Each question and answer should be added to a category 4. Save and publish.
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How do I edit or remove the “FAQ” title?You can edit the title from the Settings tab in the app. If you don’t want to display the title, simply disable the Title under “Info to Display”.
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What are common side effects?Light peels may cause mild itching and dryness Medium peels cause skin redness, tenderness, itching, skin peeling. Your skin will peel for up to 7 days
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When will I see results?Light peels results will be noticeable the following day. Your face will glow Medium peels you will see results after 7-10 days
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Who is not a good candidate?Those with open wounds, skin infections, sun burn, active cold sores. Allergies to peel ingredients or Aspirin, weakened immune system, problems with excessive scarring and hyperpigmentation also lead to poor candidacy. Use of Accutane in past 4 months, recent cosmetic surgery, laser skins procedures, or dermabrasion are also associated with poor candidacy for peels. This can be discussed further during your consultation.
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How long does it take?20 minutes
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How often should I get it done?Light peels can be performed every 2 weeks Medium peels can be performed every 4 weeks. Although you can obtain great improvement with one treatment, a series of peels is recommended for optimal results
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Is it painful?There may be minimal discomfort which may feel like light tingling or stinging upon application. This resolves within 15 minutes
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What is the aftercare?Light peel: Avoid makeup, excessive sweating on day of peel. You may return to regular skin care and makeup routine on day three. Wear sun protection. Medium peel: You will be given a post-care home kit which is an essential part of the peeling and healing process. Each patient should carefully follow instructions given in post peel kit
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When will I see results?The results are immediate and may improve over time
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What are the common side effects?Swelling and bruising are most common which subside within couple days to a week. Using topical and oral supplements as well as cold packs can diminish these side effects. All potential side effects will be discussed at time of your consultation
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How much will I need?This depends the amount of volume loss and your overall treatment goals in terms of how many areas you wish to treat (i.e.., lips, cheeks, chin…). This can be discussed during your consultation
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Who is not a good candidate?If you have active infection or skin inflammation. Known allergies to HA fillers or their ingredients. Also if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
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How long does it last?Typically fillers last up to 15 months or longer. However that depends on the individual and location treated
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How long does it take?That will all depend on the number of areas treated but in general it can take up to 45 minutes. If topical numbing cream is used that will be an additional 20 minutes.
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What about aftercare?Avoid any activities that make you red and sweaty (exercise, tanning, hot baths/showers) for 24 hours. Do not touch or apply pressure or makeup to area treated for first 24 hours. You will receive detailed post care instructions outlining restrictions.
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Is it painful?There is some discomfort when injecting dermal fillers however many contain a numbing agents. In addition, the use of cannulas, which are blunt round devices, instead of needles to place filler results in much less tissue trauma which significantly decreases pain, swelling and bruising. In some cases, needles are still used when precision is required, however topical numbing agents and vibrating devices can be used to decrease discomfort
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What about aftercare?You will be given a post care instructions and skincare kit. It is imperative that you stay out of the sun or wear sun protection during the healing process
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How long does it last?Greatly depends on amount of treatments, lifestyle and preventative skin care. Since aging is a progressive process maintenance treatments will likely be recommended
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When will I see results?Many patients see results just after one treatment. Skin will continue improve in texture over the next month. In order to get optimal results from these procedures, it is recommended that they are done in either a series of 3 or 6 treatments, spaced one month apart
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What are common side effects/downtime?Downtime will vary depending on device and depth of needles used. Because microneedling/microchanneling penetrates the skin, it’s common to experience redness, tightness, dryness, burning, swelling, bleeding and some pain. You may also experience some peeling several days post procedure. Although these symptoms may take 2-7 days to resolve completely, they should diminish within a few hours after treatment
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Who is not a good candidate?Poor candidacy includes patients who are pregnant, or patients with poorly controlled diabetes, active herpes/cold sores in treatment area, any condition causing a suppressed immune system (active cancer, autoimmune disease, use of autoimmune medications), active cystic acne, open skin wounds, skin infections, sun burn, or other active skin condition in the treatment area. Current or recent (within 6 months) use of Accutane®, extremely dry/cracked skin, or allergy to steel lead to poor candidacy. Neurotoxins and fillers can be used 2 weeks prior to or 2 weeks after your CIT procedure
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How long does it take?About 60 minutes. If numbing and PRF used treatment time may be longer
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How many treatments will I need?Depends to skin quality and treatment goals. Many people see great results in as little as one treatment. Optimal results require 3-6 treatments spaced one month apart then, 1-2 treatments per year for maintenance. Number of treatments can be further discussed and determined with provider at time of consultation
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Is there anything I do to prepare for treatment?If you are on blood thinners such as Aspirin or high dose no-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) you should stop them 10 days prior to treatment. If you have a history of cold sores you may need pre-treatment with antiviral medications. Also discontinue topical vitamin A/Retinoids or other skin irritants 5 days prior to treatment
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Is it painful?There is some discomfort depending on needle depth used. Numbing cream can be used although it is not always necessary
Still have questions? Call us and we would be happy to discuss your concerns!
References
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Hassan H, Quinlan DJ, Ghanem A. Injectable platelet-rich fibrin for facial rejuvenation: A prospective, single-center study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020 Dec;19(12):3213-3221. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13692. Epub 2020 Sep 23. PMID: 32852873.
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