Platelet-Rich fibrin (PRF) / Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) are different cosmetic treatment approaches, although both involve processing a small sample of the patient’s own blood as part of a personalised treatment protocol.

PRP is prepared using an anti-coagulant during processing to maintain the plasma consistency throughout treatment preparation.

PRF is prepared without added anti-coagulants and is processed using a different preparation method, resulting in a fibrin-based preparation used within selected cosmetic treatment protocols following practitioner assessment.

Due to the differences in preparation methods, PRF and PRP may have different handling characteristics, treatment approaches and practitioner applications.

Treatment recommendations vary depending on individual cosmetic concerns, practitioner assessment and treatment goals.

PRF is prepared using a small sample of the patient’s own blood as part of a personalised cosmetic treatment approach. Unlike PRP, no anti-coagulants are added. 

PRF is a personalised cosmetic treatment process that typically takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on the treatment area and individual treatment plan.

First, your clinician will assess your suitability for treatment, discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have.

Your skin is cleansed and the treatment process is explained prior to commencing the procedure.

A small sample of blood is then collected using specialised collection tubes and placed into a centrifuge for processing and separation of the blood components.

Once prepared, the PRF sample is carefully extracted and prepared for use within the selected cosmetic treatment protocol.

Your skin is cleansed and prepared again prior to treatment.

Depending on the treatment approach:

• PRF may be administered to targeted treatment areas using a cannula or injection technique 
• for facial treatments, PRF may be incorporated into microneedling procedures 
• for scalp treatments, PRF may be administered to selected scalp treatment areas 

Following treatment, the skin is cleansed and personalised aftercare instructions are provided.

Many patients are able to return to normal daily activities shortly after treatment, although temporary redness, swelling, bruising or sensitivity may occur and vary between individuals.

Your practitioner may recommend future appointments depending on your personalised treatment plan and cosmetic goals.

Patients may be advised to follow practitioner-provided pre-treatment instructions prior to their appointment.

General recommendations may include:

• avoiding alcohol and recreational substances for 24–48 hours prior to treatment 
• remaining well hydrated prior to your appointment 
• avoiding smoking or vaping on the day of treatment where possible 
• avoiding active skincare products such as retinoids for several days before and after treatment unless advised otherwise 
• ensuring you are able to follow recommended aftercare instructions following treatment 
• planning social activities appropriately, as temporary redness, swelling or bruising may occur following treatment 

Certain medications and supplements may affect suitability for treatment or increase the likelihood of bruising. Patients should discuss all medications, supplements and relevant medical history with their treating practitioner prior to treatment.

Patients should not cease prescribed medications unless specifically advised to do so by their prescribing medical practitioner.

Exercise recommendations before and after treatment may vary depending on the treatment area and procedure performed.

Some aftercare recommendations may include:

• Ensure home pillowcases and towels are clean following treatment. 
• Avoid touching or applying pressure to treated areas where possible. 
• Avoid strenuous exercise for several days following treatment unless advised otherwise by your practitioner. 
• Avoid heavy lifting with the arm used for blood collection for 24 hours where possible. 
• Minimise alcohol intake for 24–48 hours following treatment where possible. 
• Avoid smoking or vaping following treatment where possible. 
• Avoid swimming for several days following treatment. 
• Avoid saunas, steam rooms and excessive heat exposure for several days following treatment. 
• Avoid active skincare products unless advised otherwise by your practitioner. 
• Light makeup may generally be applied several hours after treatment if advised appropriate by your practitioner. 
• A cool compress may be used if temporary swelling occurs. 
• Temporary redness, swelling, bruising or sensitivity may occur following treatment and generally improve over time. 

Patients should discuss all medications and supplements with their treating practitioner prior to treatment. Patients should not cease prescribed medications unless advised by their prescribing medical practitioner.

• You may apply basic serums that contain no actives such as retinoids, AHAs or BHAs.
• Avoid Retinol and retinoids for 5 days post-treatment.
• Wash only with lukewarm water for 3 days, you may then continue to use active cleaners.
• Exfoliate at day 5 after treatment.
• An ice pack may be utilised if swelling sustained.
• Avoid bruise creams if any bruising is sustained.
• Moisturisers without actives may be applied from the day after treatment.
• Apply sunscreen religiously from day after treatment.
• Light make-up can be applied from 4 hours post treatment.

PRF may not  be suitable for people who:

• are pregnant or breastfeeding 
• have an active infection or current illness 
• have certain blood or clotting disorders 
• have a low platelet count 
• have certain autoimmune or immune-related conditions 
• are currently undergoing cancer treatment 
• have uncontrolled medical conditions, including uncontrolled diabetes 
• are currently taking certain immunosuppressive or steroid medications 
• are currently taking or have recently taken isotretinoin (Roaccutane) 
• are considered unsuitable following practitioner assessment 

A consultation and medical assessment are required prior to treatment to determine individual suitability and discuss potential risks and contraindications.