Your complete guide to PRP injections, PRF therapy, the vampire facial, PRP for hair loss, under-eye rejuvenation, and PRP microneedling — how they work, what they cost, and what results to expect.
PRP, or Platelet-Rich Plasma, is a regenerative medical treatment that harnesses the healing power of your own blood. A small sample of your blood is drawn and processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets — the tiny cells responsible for clotting and tissue repair.
These concentrated platelets contain growth factors — proteins that signal your body to regenerate tissue, produce new collagen, and repair damage. When injected into targeted areas, PRP triggers a natural healing cascade that rejuvenates skin, stimulates hair growth, and reverses signs of aging from the inside out.
| Growth Factor | Full Name | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| PDGF | Platelet-Derived Growth Factor | Stimulates cell growth, tissue repair, and new blood vessel formation |
| TGF-β | Transforming Growth Factor Beta | Promotes collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix formation |
| VEGF | Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor | Creates new blood vessels, improves tissue oxygenation |
| EGF | Epidermal Growth Factor | Stimulates skin cell renewal and wound healing |
| FGF | Fibroblast Growth Factor | Activates fibroblasts for collagen and elastin production |
| IGF-1 | Insulin-like Growth Factor | Cell proliferation and differentiation for tissue regeneration |
The PRP preparation process takes about 30-60 minutes from blood draw to injection. Here's exactly what happens during a PRP treatment session:
10-60 mL of blood is drawn from your arm (similar to a routine blood test)
Blood is spun at high speed (1,500-3,500 RPM) for 5-15 minutes to separate components
The platelet-rich layer (golden-yellow plasma) is carefully extracted from the tube
PRP is injected or applied topically to the targeted area (with numbing if needed)
After centrifugation, your blood separates into three distinct layers:
| Layer | Contents | % of Volume | Used in Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP) | Plasma with few platelets | ~55% | Sometimes used as activator |
| Buffy Coat / PRP Layer | Concentrated platelets + white blood cells | ~5% | ✔ This is the PRP |
| Red Blood Cells | Red blood cells (erythrocytes) | ~40% | Discarded |
PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) is an advanced evolution of PRP therapy. Developed by Dr. Joseph Choukroun, PRF represents the next generation of platelet-based treatments with several key advantages over traditional PRP.
The critical difference is in the processing: while PRP uses anticoagulant-coated tubes and high-speed centrifugation that strips away many beneficial components, PRF uses plain tubes with no additives and a slower centrifugation speed. This preserves the natural fibrin matrix and retains white blood cells, stem cells, and a broader range of growth factors.
| Type | Form | Best For | How It's Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| i-PRF (Injectable PRF) | Liquid | Injections, skin rejuvenation, hair restoration | Injected like traditional PRP but with superior growth factor release |
| A-PRF (Advanced PRF) | Membrane/clot | Wound healing, surgical sites, dental procedures | Placed as a membrane directly over treatment area |
| PRF Gel / Bio-Filler | Gel | Volume restoration, under-eye hollows, facial contouring | Heated A-PRF mixed with i-PRF to create an injectable bio-filler |
Understanding the differences between PRP and PRF helps you and your provider choose the right treatment for your specific goals.
| Feature | PRP | PRF |
|---|---|---|
| Blood draw amount | 20-60 mL | 10-40 mL |
| Tube type | Anticoagulant (ACD-A, sodium citrate) | Plain glass or plastic (no additives) |
| Centrifuge speed | 3,000-3,500 RPM (hard spin) | 700-1,500 RPM (soft spin) |
| Processing time | 10-15 minutes | 3-8 minutes (must be used quickly) |
| White blood cells | ✘ Filtered out | ✔ Preserved |
| Stem cells | ✘ Filtered out | ✔ Preserved |
| Fibrin matrix | ✘ Anticoagulant prevents formation | ✔ Natural scaffold |
| Growth factor release | Rapid burst (2-4 hours) | Sustained release (10-14 days) |
| Platelet concentration | 5-10x baseline | 3-5x baseline (but more bioactive) |
| Activation needed | Sometimes (calcium chloride/thrombin) | No (self-activating) |
| Shelf stability | Can be stored briefly | Must be used within 15-20 minutes |
| Can be used as bio-filler | ✘ Too liquid | ✔ PRF Gel/Bio-Filler |
| Research volume | Extensive (30+ years) | Growing (20+ years) |
| Cost per session | $400-$1,000 | $500-$1,500 |
| Best for | Hair restoration, joint therapy | Facial rejuvenation, under-eyes, bio-filler |
The Vampire Facial — made famous by Kim Kardashian in 2013 — is a combination treatment that pairs microneedling with PRP application. The microneedling device creates thousands of micro-channels in the skin, and PRP is applied topically during and after the procedure, allowing the growth factors to penetrate deeply into the skin.
This combination is more effective than either treatment alone because the micro-channels deliver PRP directly to the dermal layer where collagen is produced, while the microneedling itself triggers additional collagen induction.
Topical anesthetic applied for 30-45 min before treatment
10-20 mL drawn from arm and centrifuged to extract PRP
Device creates micro-channels (0.5-2.5mm depth) while PRP is applied
Additional PRP massaged into skin to saturate micro-channels
Stimulates collagen production to smooth forehead lines, crow's feet, and perioral wrinkles
Most PopularRemodels scar tissue and promotes new collagen to fill pitted and rolling acne scars
High EfficacyImproves hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and melasma through cell turnover
Tightens pore size through collagen remodeling and skin tightening
Creates the "PRP glow" — smoother, more luminous skin through cellular renewal
TrendingCan be performed on the body to improve stretch marks on abdomen, thighs, and arms
PRP injections for hair loss are one of the most studied and effective non-surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) in both men and women. The growth factors in PRP stimulate dormant hair follicles, extend the growth phase (anagen), and increase blood supply to the follicles.
PRP is injected directly into the scalp at the level of the hair follicles using a series of small injections spaced approximately 1 cm apart across the thinning area. The growth factors then:
| Metric | Typical Improvement | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Hair count increase | 30-40% more hairs per cm² | After 3-4 sessions |
| Hair thickness | Up to 46% thicker individual hairs | 3-6 months |
| Shedding reduction | Noticeable within 1-2 months | After first session |
| New growth visible | "Baby hairs" appear at hairline and crown | 3-4 months |
| Duration of results | 6-12 months per session cycle | Maintenance every 4-6 months |
| Phase | Sessions | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Treatment | 3-4 sessions | Every 4 weeks | Activate dormant follicles, establish growth |
| Maintenance | 1 session | Every 4-6 months | Sustain results and prevent regression |
| Booster | 1-2 sessions | As needed | Address new areas of thinning or seasonal shedding |
PRP under-eye treatment is an increasingly popular alternative to dermal fillers for treating dark circles, hollowing, and crepey skin in the delicate periorbital area. Because PRP uses your own blood, it avoids the risk of Tyndall effect (bluish tint) that can occur with hyaluronic acid fillers in this thin-skinned area.
| Concern | How PRP Helps | Expected Results |
|---|---|---|
| Dark circles (volume loss) | Thickens thin skin, reducing visibility of blood vessels beneath | 50-70% improvement after 2-3 sessions |
| Hollow tear troughs | Stimulates collagen and tissue volume over time | Gradual volume restoration over 3-6 months |
| Crepey/thin skin | Builds collagen density and skin thickness | Smoother, firmer under-eye skin |
| Fine lines (crow's feet) | Collagen remodeling softens dynamic and static lines | Progressive improvement with each session |
PRP and PRF can be used across the face, scalp, and body for a variety of regenerative purposes:
Injected across the face to improve overall skin quality, texture, and radiance
Most PopularInjected into thinning areas to stimulate hair follicles and increase hair density
High DemandTreats dark circles, hollowing, and crepey skin in the delicate periorbital area
TrendingAddresses crepey skin, horizontal lines, and sun damage on the neck and chest
Rejuvenates aging hands by improving skin quality and reducing visible veins/tendons
Combined with microneedling to remodel scar tissue and fill pitted scars
High EfficacyPRF Gel can be injected to naturally fill smile lines with regenerative benefits
PRF Gel provides subtle, natural lip enhancement with a regenerative approach
New ApplicationOrthopedic PRP for knee osteoarthritis, tennis elbow, and tendon injuries (medical)
Medical UsePRP and PRF results develop gradually as your body produces new collagen and regenerates tissue. Here's a realistic timeline:
Mild swelling, redness, and possible bruising at injection sites. For vampire facial: sunburn-like redness and skin tightness. This is the normal inflammatory response that triggers healing.
Swelling resolves, bruising fades. You may notice a temporary "glow" from the initial inflammatory response and increased blood flow. Skin may feel slightly tighter.
Growth factors have activated fibroblasts. New collagen synthesis begins. Hair patients may notice reduced shedding. Subtle skin texture improvements emerge.
Noticeable improvement in skin texture, tone, and firmness. Hair patients see "baby hairs" emerging. Dark circles under eyes begin to lighten as skin thickens. This is typically when patients schedule their second session.
Maximum collagen remodeling occurs. Skin is visibly smoother, firmer, and more radiant. Hair density and thickness measurably increase. After completing 3-4 sessions, most patients see their best results in this window.
Results continue to improve for several months after the last session and typically last 12-18 months for facial treatments, 6-12 months for hair. Maintenance sessions recommended every 6-12 months to sustain improvements.
PRP and PRF treatment costs vary by treatment area, geographic location, and whether PRP or PRF is used. PRF treatments typically cost 15-30% more than PRP due to the specialized processing technique.
| Treatment Area | PRP Cost/Session | PRF Cost/Session | Sessions Needed | Total Investment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vampire Facial (PRP + Microneedling) | $400-$800 | $500-$1,000 | 3 sessions | $1,200-$3,000 |
| Full Face Rejuvenation (Injections) | $600-$1,000 | $700-$1,200 | 3 sessions | $1,800-$3,600 |
| Hair Restoration | $800-$1,200 | $1,000-$1,500 | 3-4 sessions | $2,400-$6,000 |
| Under-Eye Treatment | $600-$900 | $700-$1,100 | 2-3 sessions | $1,200-$3,300 |
| Neck & Décolletage | $500-$900 | $600-$1,100 | 3 sessions | $1,500-$3,300 |
| Hands | $400-$700 | $500-$900 | 2-3 sessions | $800-$2,700 |
| Acne Scar Treatment | $500-$900 | $600-$1,100 | 3-4 sessions | $1,500-$4,400 |
| Treatment | Cost Per Session | Sessions/Year | Annual Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRP Facial | $600-$1,000 | 3 initial + 1 maintenance | $2,400-$4,000 (year 1) | 12-18 months |
| Botox | $300-$600 | 3-4 | $900-$2,400 | 3-4 months |
| Dermal Fillers | $600-$1,200 | 1-2 | $600-$2,400 | 6-18 months |
| Microneedling (alone) | $200-$400 | 3-6 | $600-$2,400 | Ongoing |
| Laser Resurfacing | $1,000-$3,000 | 1-2 | $1,000-$6,000 | 1-3 years |
| Exosomes | $800-$2,000 | 2-3 | $1,600-$6,000 | 12-18 months |
Because PRP uses your own blood, it is one of the safest aesthetic treatments available — but it is not right for everyone. Your platelet count and overall health affect how effective the treatment will be.
PRP has an excellent safety profile because it uses your own blood — there is no risk of allergic reaction, rejection, or disease transmission. The most common side effects are related to the injection process itself, not the PRP.
| Side Effect | Frequency | Duration | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild swelling | Very common (80%+) | 1-3 days | Cold compress, sleep elevated |
| Redness at injection site | Very common (80%+) | 1-3 days | Resolves on its own |
| Bruising | Common (40-60%) | 5-10 days | Arnica cream, avoid blood thinners pre-treatment |
| Tenderness/soreness | Common (50%+) | 1-3 days | Acetaminophen (NOT ibuprofen) |
| Mild headache (scalp PRP) | Occasional (20-30%) | 1-2 days | Acetaminophen, hydration |
| Temporary hair shedding | Occasional (15-20%) | 2-4 weeks | Normal "shock shedding" — hair regrows stronger |
| Side Effect | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Infection | Very rare (<1%) | Risk is from injection technique, not PRP itself — proper sterile protocol prevents this |
| Nerve injury | Extremely rare | Temporary numbness or tingling if a nerve is nicked during injection |
| Tissue damage | Extremely rare | Only with intravascular injection — proper injection technique prevents this |
| No improvement | Uncommon (5-10%) | May occur in patients with low platelet counts or poor healing capacity |
Proper aftercare helps maximize PRP results. The key principle is: don't interfere with the inflammatory healing response that PRP intentionally triggers. This means avoiding anti-inflammatory medications and treatments that could suppress the healing cascade.
Our hands-on PRP and PRF certification course covers blood draw protocols, centrifugation techniques, injection methods, and combination therapies with live patient demonstrations.
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