May 5, 2026 Tags: regenerative aesthetics, PRP, Nashville plastic surgery, skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, PRF, biostimulators
If you have been researching regenerative aesthetic treatments, you have likely come across both PRP and PRF. These two treatments share a common foundation — both use growth factors derived from the patient’s own blood to stimulate the body’s natural repair and renewal processes — but they are not the same thing, and understanding the difference can help you have a more informed conversation with your provider.
Both are gaining momentum as part of a broader shift in aesthetic medicine toward treatments that work with the body’s own biology rather than introducing synthetic materials.
Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP, is created by drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. The resulting plasma is rich in growth factors that stimulate tissue repair, collagen production, and cell regeneration. PRP treatments at Dr. Wendel’s practice are used for skin rejuvenation through microneedling as well as for hair restoration, injecting the concentrated plasma into the scalp to encourage new hair growth.
PRP has been used in aesthetic medicine for years and has a well-established track record. It is effective, low-risk, and requires no downtime, making it a popular option for patients who want results without a recovery period.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin, or PRF, is a newer evolution of the same concept. The key differences lie in how the blood is processed and what the final product contains. PRF is spun at a lower speed and without anticoagulants, which produces a fibrin matrix — a natural scaffolding that holds the growth factors in place and releases them more slowly over time.
This slower, more sustained release is one of PRF’s main advantages. Because the growth factors are delivered gradually rather than all at once, the results can develop more progressively and may last longer. PRF also contains a higher concentration of white blood cells and stem cells, which may contribute to more robust tissue regeneration.
The answer depends on the specific concern being treated and the individual patient. PRP has a longer history of use and is well-suited for a wide range of applications. PRF’s sustained release and richer cellular composition make it particularly appealing for patients seeking longer-term regenerative results, and it is increasingly being used in combination with other treatments for enhanced outcomes.
In many cases, the choice between PRP and PRF is less about one being definitively superior and more about which is better matched to the patient’s goals and the provider’s approach. A consultation is the best way to determine which makes the most sense for your specific situation.
Both PRP and PRF are part of a wider movement toward regenerative aesthetics — treatments that encourage the body to heal and renew itself rather than introducing external fillers or volumizers. This approach is particularly appealing to patients who want natural-looking, gradual improvement with minimal risk. Learn more about the rise of biostimulatory treatments in 2026 from Marie Claire.
To find out whether PRP or PRF might be right for your skin or hair concerns, contact our Nashville office to schedule a consultation.
