Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)
What Is Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF)?
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a newer regenerative treatment that, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), comes from your own blood. Unlike PRP, PRF is prepared without anticoagulants. Clotting results in a fibrin matrix that can trap platelets and other blood-derived healing components that allow for slower, more sustained release of growth factors post-treatment.
A PRF hair treatment is intended to:
- Support follicle regeneration.
- Encourage tissue repair in the scalp.
- Reduce inflammation.
- Promote gradual improvements in hair thickness (calibre) and density.
Early studies suggest PRF may be beneficial for treating androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss as well as assisting with hair transplant recovery.
How PRF differs from PRP?
PRP and PRF are closely related, but they are not the same treatment. Because PRF contains a fibrin scaffold, it is often described as a more extended-release version of platelet-based therapy. PRP offers faster delivery of growth factors, while PRF is thought to potentially be more powerful due to slow release of regenerative signals over a longer period of time.
- Both PRP and PRF come from your own blood.
- PRP uses a faster centrifugation process and anticoagulants
- PRF uses slower processing and natural blood clotting
- PRP provides a more immediate burst of growth factors while PRF offers slower, sustained release
- PRF includes a fibrin matrix that may help support healing and cell migration
While PRF has some exciting potential healing advantages over PRP, it is newer and less standardized. PRP has a longer clinical track record and proven protocols.
Which Treatment Is Right For You?
The best treatment depends on your hair loss pattern, treatment goals, and provider experience. PRP may be a great fit if you want a well-established option with more published use in hair restoration. PRF may appeal to patients looking for a newer, cutting edge regenerative approach.
PRP may be ideal if:
- You prefer a more established and predictable treatment.
- You are in the earlier stages of hair thinning.
- You want a widely used option with more clinical familiarity.
PRF may be ideal if:
- You are interested in a newer regenerative option (PRP 2.0).
- You want a treatment with the boost of sustained growth-factor release.
- You’ve seen some results with PRP but want to see if results can be boosted.
What To Expect
Both PRP and PRF are minimally invasive in-office procedures. A small blood draw is taken, the sample is processed, and the concentrated product is applied to treatment areas with microneedling.
Most treatment plans involve a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart, with visible changes developing gradually over months. Results typically focus on improved hair thickness, scalp health, and slowing further shedding rather than overnight regrowth. Maintenance is required.
Start Your Hair Restoration Journey
A PRF treatment always begins with a personalized consultation to determine if it’s the best option. Let’s assess your hair goals together and find the right, confident approach for your needs.
Linkov Hair Surgery
150 E 56th St, #1A
New York, NY 10022
(212) 970-9404