PRP and PRF skin treatment (platelet-rich plasma)

A tube of blood is drawn from your arm and spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, which release growth factors that tell fibroblasts to build collagen. That concentrate is injected across the face, or applied while microneedling. PRF is a slower-spinning version that releases growth factors over longer and needs no anticoagulant.

The blood draw is the part most people dislike. The injections are a series of stings; combined with microneedling it's scratchy and warm. Numbing cream is used.

How much downtime: Low — 1–3 days of redness, swelling and bruising; the face can look flushed and slightly puffy for a day.

Cost for that downtime: $500–$1,500 per session, 3 sessions, 4 weeks apart, then yearly top-ups.

Is it worth it? Our verdict (2/5): The least convincing of the injectable boosters. Small studies show real but modest change, and because every clinic spins its PRP differently you can't compare one clinic's results with another's. If your goal is hydration and glow, hyaluronic-acid boosters have better evidence for similar money.

• Uses your own tissue, so there's no reaction to foreign material
• Modest gains in hydration, texture and fine lines in small studies
• Can be combined with microneedling or laser in one visit

• Add volume or lift sagging skin
• Work as predictably as hyaluronic-acid boosters or RF microneedling for similar money
• Give the same result twice: no two clinics prepare PRP the same way
• Treat pigmentation or broken veins

• Bruising, swelling and tenderness at the blood-draw and injection sites
• Infection if the blood isn't handled sterilely
• Results vary hugely with spin speed, platelet count and additives — the same brand can perform differently in different clinics
• Cold-sore flare-ups
• Expensive for the amount of evidence behind it

Darker skin tones: Safe for all skin tones — nothing heat- or pigment-based is involved. The main caution is post-inflammatory darkening from the microneedling it's often paired with, so ask for gentle needle settings.

Good fit

• People who want an 'own-tissue' option and don't mind needles and a blood draw
• Those combining it with microneedling for texture

Avoid or ask a doctor first

• Blood disorders, low platelet count or blood thinners (ask your doctor first)
• Active infection or cold sores
• Pregnancy
• Anyone on a tight budget — cheaper options have stronger evidence

Sessions: 3 sessions, 4 weeks apart, then yearly top-ups

• American Academy of Dermatology — Is platelet-rich plasma the secret to younger-looking skin?
• PubMed research: platelet-rich plasma facial skin rejuvenation
• PubMed research: autologous platelet-rich plasma skin aging randomized

General information only, not medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist.