Microneedling With PRF vs. PRP: What's the Difference, and Which One Is Right for Your Skin?
Category: Skin Rejuvenation | Microneedling | PRF | PRP
you've been exploring skin rejuvenation treatments in the Solana Beach or North San Diego area, you've likely come across the terms PRP and PRF — often in the context of microneedling. These treatments have become celebrated for their ability to dramatically improve skin texture, tone, pigmentation, and overall radiance using your own biology.
But what's the difference between PRP and PRF? Which one is more effective? And how does combining either with microneedling take results to the next level?
At Fiora Aesthetics, we specialize in both — and we're breaking it all down for you here.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a device with tiny, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin's surface. These micro-channels trigger the skin's natural healing response — stimulating collagen and elastin production, accelerating cell turnover, and improving overall skin quality.
On its own, microneedling effectively treats:
Fine lines and early wrinkles
Acne scars and textural irregularities
Enlarged pores
Uneven skin tone and mild hyperpigmentation
Overall dullness and lack of radiance
But when you combine microneedling with either PRP or PRF, you supercharge those results by introducing powerful growth factors directly into the micro-channels — dramatically amplifying the skin's healing and regenerative response.
What Is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)?
PRP has been used in medicine for decades — from orthopedics to dermatology — for its remarkable ability to accelerate healing and stimulate tissue regeneration.
Here's how it works for skin:
A small amount of your blood is drawn (similar to a standard lab draw)
The blood is placed in a centrifuge and spun at high speed
The spinning separates the blood into its components — and the platelet-rich plasma layer is extracted
This golden, growth factor-rich plasma is then applied topically to the skin immediately after microneedling, allowing it to penetrate deeply through the micro-channels
PRP is rich in platelets, which release growth factors that signal the skin to regenerate, produce collagen, and heal more rapidly. The result is accelerated improvement in skin texture, tone, and radiance.
What Is PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)?
PRF is the next generation of PRP — an evolution that has largely replaced PRP in aesthetic medicine because it is more concentrated, more biologically active, and longer-lasting.
Here's how PRF differs:
No anticoagulants. PRP requires an anticoagulant (like sodium citrate) to prevent clotting during centrifugation. PRF is processed at a slower speed without anticoagulants — which means the blood's natural fibrin network is preserved.
The fibrin matrix matters. The fibrin network in PRF acts as a scaffold that holds growth factors in place and releases them slowly over time — up to 7-10 days compared to the immediate and short-lived release of PRP growth factors. This sustained release translates to a more prolonged healing and regenerative response.
Higher concentration of growth factors. Because PRF is processed differently, it retains more platelets, white blood cells, and stem cells than traditional PRP — making it a more potent biological treatment.
More natural. PRF is 100% autologous (made from your own blood) with no additives whatsoever — making it the most natural regenerative treatment available.
PRF vs. PRP: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Microneedling With PRF: Our Preferred Approach at Fiora Aesthetics
At Fiora Aesthetics, we have transitioned to microneedling with PRF as our preferred combination treatment because the results are simply superior — and because it aligns with our philosophy of working with your biology rather than introducing external substances.
The treatment is remarkably well-tolerated. We apply topical numbing before the session, draw your blood while the numbing takes effect, process the PRF, and then perform the microneedling treatment — applying the PRF both topically and, in many cases, injecting it into the superficial dermis for even deeper regeneration.
What to expect:
During treatment: Mild pressure and some redness — most patients find it very manageable
Immediately after: Skin looks flushed, similar to a mild sunburn, with possible mild swelling
Days 2-3: Skin may feel tight or appear slightly textured as healing progresses
Day 4-7: Skin begins to look and feel smoother, more radiant
Weeks 2-4: Continued improvement in tone and texture
Full results: Visible at 4-6 weeks, continuing to improve for up to 3 months
Who Is Microneedling With PRF Best For?
This treatment is wonderfully versatile and appropriate for a wide range of skin types and concerns. It's particularly effective for:
Acne scar revision — one of the most effective non-surgical treatments available
Sun damage and hyperpigmentation — common in our sun-loving North Coastal San Diego community
Fine lines and early skin laxity
Post-pregnancy skin changes
Overall skin health optimization - firming, tightening, brightening, and long-term skin rejuvenation
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
For most patients, we recommend a series of 3 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart for initial results, followed by maintenance treatments 1-2 times per year to sustain and build on those results.
This is another treatment that pairs beautifully with our membership model — because consistent skin care isn't a luxury; it's an investment in your long-term health and radiance.
Ready to Glow From the Inside Out?
If you've been curious about microneedling with PRF or PRP, the best first step is a personalized skin consultation at Fiora Aesthetics. We'll assess your skin, discuss your concerns and goals, and build a treatment plan that's tailored specifically to you.
Book Your Skin Consultation at Fiora Aesthetics via link below.
Your skin has everything it needs to heal and regenerate beautifully — we're just here to help it along.
Fiora Aesthetics | Solana Beach, CA | Serving Del Mar, Cardiff, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe & North Coastal San Diego
