PRP vs PRF for Hair Loss: What’s the Difference – and Which Is Better?
, by Lee Charles, 5 min reading time
Wondering whether PRP or PRF is better for hair loss or skin rejuvenation? This blog breaks down the key differences, benefits, and how to choose the right treatment for your needs — in simple, jargon-free language.
PRP vs PRF for Hair Loss: What’s the Difference – and Which Is Better?
If you’ve been researching non-surgical treatments for hair loss or skin rejuvenation, you’ve likely come across PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin). Both use your body’s own blood to support healing, regeneration, and growth — but what’s the actual difference, and which one is right for you or your clinic?
Let’s break it down in plain English.
💉 What Is PRP?
PRP has been used for years in both medical and aesthetic treatments. It involves drawing a small amount of your blood, spinning it in a centrifuge, and isolating the platelet-rich layer. This layer contains growth factors, which are then injected into the skin or scalp to stimulate healing and regeneration.
Why choose PRP?
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You may see results more quickly
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It’s great for fine lines, uneven skin tone, and mild scarring
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Often used for early stages of hair thinning
But it’s worth noting that the effects of PRP can wear off sooner than PRF, as the growth factors are released all at once and absorbed more quickly.
🧬 What Is PRF?
PRF is often considered the next generation of regenerative therapy. The process is similar to PRP, but the blood is spun at a slower speed, allowing more natural components — including white blood cells and stem cells — to remain.
It also contains a fibrin matrix, which acts like a scaffold to slowly release growth factors over time.
Why choose PRF?
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More sustained results over time
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Potential for deeper tissue regeneration
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Contains more healing elements, including stem cells and immune cells
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Favoured for collagen stimulation, wound healing, and long-term skin repair
The trade-off? PRF may take longer to show visible results — but when it does, they tend to last longer.
🔍 Key Differences at a Glance:
| Feature | PRP | PRF |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Factor Release | Rapid (short-term boost) | Slow (longer-lasting) |
| Contains Stem Cells | Fewer | More |
| Fibrin Matrix | No | Yes |
| Visible Results | Sooner | May take longer |
| Longevity | Shorter duration | Longer-term improvements |
🧠 Which One Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. It really depends on:
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What condition you’re treating (e.g., early vs advanced hair loss)
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How quickly you want to see results
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Whether you’re after a short-term boost or long-term repair
PRP might be ideal if you're looking for quicker results, especially for surface-level concerns. PRF, on the other hand, could be a better option if you're after deeper rejuvenation and longer-lasting effects.
👩⚕️ Always Consult a Professional
Both PRP and PRF are widely used in clinics around the UK, and both are safe when performed by trained professionals. If you’re unsure which is right for you, we strongly recommend chatting with a qualified practitioner to help guide your decision.
💬 Final Thoughts from Charles Medical
At Charles Medical, we supply CE-marked PRP and PRF tubes to professionals across the UK, and we’re always here to help you choose the right products for your clinic, training centre, or aesthetic practice.
If you’d like to browse our range of ACD-Gel PRP tubes, PRF tubes, or centrifuges, tap the link below to shop with confidence.
Have questions? Our team is always happy to help.