What Is PRF?
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is an autologous material, meaning it’s prepared from a small sample of the patient’s own blood rather than from synthetic ingredients. After the blood is drawn, similar to routine bloodwork, it’s processed in a centrifuge, which concentrates platelets and fibrin so they can be incorporated into certain facial esthetic procedures.
A Brief History, From PRP to PRF
PRF belongs to a broader category of materials called platelet concentrates, used across several fields for more than three decades. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) was one of the earliest platelet concentrates, prepared with an anticoagulant additive and a longer centrifugation process. Over time, practitioners studied how adjusting centrifugation speed and duration changes the resulting preparation, and PRF emerged as a newer approach that skips the anticoagulant step entirely.
Because PRF is prepared differently than PRP, it has a different consistency and a shorter window for use after collection, typically applied within about 15 minutes of processing.
How PRF Is Prepared and Used
At CARE Esthetics, PRF is prepared in two general forms depending on the procedure.
- Liquid PRF has a thinner consistency and is commonly incorporated into microneedling procedures.
- Fibrin PRF has a firmer, gel-like consistency and may be incorporated into certain injectable procedures as part of a customized treatment plan.
PRF is never offered as a stand-alone therapy at CARE Esthetics. It’s incorporated as a material within physician-directed facial esthetic procedures, such as microneedling or the Bio-CARE and Bio-Lift treatment plans, alongside elements like laser therapy and customized fillers.
What Happens During a PRF Appointment
A small blood sample is drawn in the office, then processed in a centrifuge while your physician reviews your treatment plan with you. The resulting PRF is then applied to the treatment area. Appointments are typically completed in under an hour, and most patients return to their normal activities the same day. Mild, temporary redness or swelling in the treated area is common for a day or two afterward.
Scheduling a Consultation
If you’re considering a facial esthetic treatment plan that includes PRF, schedule a consultation with a CARE Esthetics physician to discuss your goals and medical history. Individual results vary, and your physician can walk you through a realistic timeline during your consultation.
