When it comes to beauty, there’s always something new on the horizon—just when you think you’ve seen it all, something else pops up that makes you go, “Wait, what?” PRF fillers, the latest treatment in the aesthetics category that’s got people talking, and not just because it sounds like something straight out of a vampire movie. Would you use your own blood to turn back the clock on ageing? Well, before you run for the hills, we brought in experts to tell you why this might just be the most exciting beauty treatment yet.
What is PRF?
PRF stands for Platelet-Rich Fibrin, and it’s essentially a more natural, less processed version of its predecessor, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma). “PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) is a next-generation blood concentrate used in regenerative medicine and aesthetics,” says Dr Chytra V Anand, Celebrity Cosmetic Dermatologist, Founder & CEO, Kosmoderma. The whole idea is to use the healing properties of your own blood to rejuvenate your skin.
How does it work?
A small amount of your blood is drawn, and then it’s spun in a centrifuge. This spinning separates the blood into different components, and the golden serum that rises to the top is the PRF. This serum is rich in platelets, fibrin, and white blood cells—all of which are known for their healing and rejuvenating properties. Unlike PRP, which is more liquidy and needs additives to work, PRF is a thicker, gel-like substance that doesn’t need anything extra.
Why Everyone’s Talking About PRF?
“PRF is used in skin conditions requiring a gradual release of growth factors such as wound healing and skin rejuvenation. Since PRF is thick it is used in filling purposes of smaller areas of the face like acne scars and initial fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr Madhuri Agarwal, Founder and medical director of Yavana Aesthetic Clinic. PRF is considered a “biostimulatory” treatment, which means it doesn’t just sit there plumping up your skin temporarily like traditional fillers. Instead, it stimulates your body’s own collagen production, leading to longer-lasting, more natural-looking results. Because it’s made from your own blood, there’s almost no risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
Is the PRF treatment for you?
The process is pretty straightforward. After a consultation to determine your specific needs, a small amount of blood is drawn, usually from your arm. This is then spun down to separate the PRF from the rest of the blood components. The PRF is then injected into the concern areas where you’d like to see some rejuvenation. “Noticeable results are seen after 3-4 sessions of PRF and the sessions are done at an interval of 4-6 weeks. The results usually last anywhere from 6-9 months depending on the patient’s lifestyle, age and the treatment area,” adds Dr Madhuri.
The PRF technique is quite safe, and there are no significant side effects to be concerned about. “PRF uses the patient’s own blood, minimising the risk of allergic reactions or infections. However, like any injectable procedure, there is a risk of, bruising and swelling at the injection site, mild discomfort during the procedure, and rare instances of infection if post-treatment care is not properly followed,” recalls Dr Chytra
Is PRF the future of fillers? It sure seems like it. If you’re after a natural, less invasive way to maintain your youthful glow, PRF might just be for you. Plus, there’s something undeniably cool about the idea of using your own blood to age in reverse.
Image Credits – Freepik