Platelet-Rich Fibrin (iPRF) vs PRP: What’s the Difference and Why iPRF Is the Future of Regenerative Aesthetics
When it comes to regenerative treatments for skin rejuvenation, hair loss, under-eye hollowing, or acne scarring, both Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (iPRF) have gained attention for their natural, autologous healing abilities. However, while they’re often spoken about interchangeably, they are not the same — and the differences matter.
At our aesthetic clinic in Milton Keynes, we specialise in iPRF (Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin) treatments for concerns such as hair thinning, dark circles, and skin regeneration, and many of our clients ask how iPRF compares to PRP.
In this blog, we’ll explore what PRP and iPRF are, how each works, and why iPRF is fast becoming the gold standard in non-surgical regenerative aesthetic treatments. Click here if you want to watch us perform an iPRF treatment!
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment that uses a concentrated form of your own blood’s platelets, rich in growth factors. The process involves:
Drawing a small amount of blood from the patient
Centrifuging it at a high speed to isolate the plasma and platelets
Injecting the PRP into targeted areas such as the scalp for hair loss, under eyes for rejuvenation, or skin for texture and tone improvement
PRP has been widely used for over two decades in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and now aesthetics. It promotes healing, tissue repair, collagen stimulation, and cell renewal.
What is Platelet-Rich Fibrin (iPRF)?
Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin (iPRF) is an evolution of PRP. It contains not only platelets and plasma, but also white blood cells, stem cells, and a fibrin matrix that helps to trap and release growth factors more slowly and effectively over time.
The iPRF process involves:
Drawing blood (as with PRP)
Spinning it at a lower speed in a centrifuge — this gentler process preserves more regenerative cells
Injecting the iPRF into target areas or using it in microneedling
This allows for a longer-lasting, natural stimulation of collagen, elastin, and healing processes. Click here to watch us perform an iPRF treatment!
iPRF vs PRP: What’s the Difference?
While PRP and iPRF are both derived from your own blood, the biological composition and clinical outcomes differ significantly. PRP is produced by spinning the blood at a high speed, which isolates the platelet-rich plasma but removes many beneficial cells in the process. It often requires the addition of anticoagulants to prevent clotting, and its growth factors are released almost immediately, leading to a shorter window of regenerative activity.
In contrast, iPRF is processed at a lower centrifugation speed, preserving not only the platelets but also white blood cells, stem cells, and a fibrin matrix. This fibrin network creates a scaffold at the injection site, which allows for a slow, sustained release of growth factors over the course of 7 to 10 days. Additionally, iPRF is 100% natural and additive-free, making it safer and more biocompatible. Clinically, iPRF tends to produce longer-lasting, deeper regenerative effects — especially in delicate areas like the under-eyes and in cases of hair restoration or acne scarring — where controlled healing is essential.
ClLICK HERE to watch a video on the difference!
Why iPRF Is Better for Aesthetic Results
1. No Additives – 100% Natural
PRP often requires anticoagulants to prevent clotting, which can slightly alter the biological behaviour of the plasma. iPRF, by contrast, is completely free from additives, making it more biocompatible and appealing to those seeking natural skin treatments.
2. Stronger Regenerative Potential
The inclusion of white blood cells and stem cells in iPRF enhances its ability to stimulate healing, improve vascularity, and boost collagen production, making it ideal for:
Hair loss treatment
Under-eye rejuvenation
Skin tightening and resurfacing
3. Sustained Healing Over Time
iPRF forms a fibrin clot at the treatment site, allowing a slower, controlled release of growth factors over 7 to 10 days, compared to PRP’s immediate (and short-lived) effect.
4. Enhanced Outcomes in Delicate Areas
Because of its softer volume and sustained action, iPRF is ideal for delicate areas like the tear trough (under the eyes), where traditional fillers or PRP may not give consistent or natural-looking results.
Clinical Applications of iPRF at Our Milton Keynes Clinic
Under Eye Rejuvenation
iPRF helps reduce dark circles, under-eye hollows, and fine lines naturally by promoting collagen production and vascular support without adding volume like fillers.
Hair Restoration
The stem cells and fibrin in iPRF make it more effective for activating hair follicles compared to PRP. Clients typically see improved hair density and thickness after a series of treatments.
Acne Scarring & Skin Regeneration
When combined with microneedling, iPRF deeply enhances the remodelling of scar tissue, improves skin tone and texture, and boosts cell renewal. Watch a us perform a microneedling treatment here!
FAQs
Is iPRF safer than PRP?
Yes — because iPRF is 100% autologous and contains no additives, it has minimal risk of reaction or inflammation.
How many sessions are needed?
Typically 3–4 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart, with maintenance every 6–12 months depending on the concern.
Is iPRF better for long-term results?
Yes. Thanks to its slow-release action, iPRF offers more gradual and sustained improvement, especially for skin texture and under-eye rejuvenation.
Choose iPRF for Natural Regenerative Treatments in Milton Keynes
If you’re considering PRP for hair loss, under-eye circles, or scarring, it’s time to explore the superior benefits of iPRF. At our aesthetic clinic in Milton Keynes, we offer advanced iPRF treatments that combine medical expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver natural, regenerative results.
Whether you're looking for:
“iPRF treatment for hair thinning Milton Keynes”
“PRF vs PRP for facial rejuvenation”
“Natural under eye treatment without fillers”
— we’re here to guide you through a safer, longer-lasting option.