Blood Draw
Our team draws a small sample of your blood -- typically 10 to 20 milliliters -- from your arm, similar to a routine lab draw.
PRP and PRF for Skin and Hair Renewal in Traverse City, MI
Autologous platelet therapy using your own blood to stimulate collagen production, rejuvenate skin, and restore hair growth.
Treatment Time:60-90 minutes
Downtime:1-3 days
Results Last:12-18 months
The Challenge
When Your Skin and Hair Stop Responding to Products
Understanding Regenerative Decline
As we age, our skin's natural regenerative capacity slows dramatically -- collagen production declines by roughly 1% each year after age 30, and hair follicles gradually shrink and weaken. These changes can leave your complexion looking dull, textured, and uneven, while thinning hair becomes increasingly noticeable at the part line and temples. Many patients find that even premium skincare products and supplements no longer deliver visible improvement. The underlying issue is not surface-level -- it is a decline in the growth factors and stem cells that drive tissue repair from within.
PRP and PRF therapy works by harnessing the concentrated healing power already present in your own blood. After a simple blood draw, our team processes your sample to isolate platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or the next-generation platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), then delivers these growth factors directly into the skin or scalp. The treatment stimulates collagen synthesis, accelerates cellular turnover, and reactivates dormant hair follicles. Results develop gradually over weeks as your body's own repair processes take effect, producing improvement that looks and feels entirely natural.
What Are PRP and PRF?
The Science of Platelet Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) are autologous regenerative treatments derived entirely from your own blood. PRP is created by centrifuging a small blood sample to concentrate platelets -- the cell fragments that initiate healing -- to levels three to five times above baseline. These concentrated platelets release growth factors including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-B), which stimulate collagen production, new blood vessel formation, and tissue repair.
PRP vs. PRF: The Next Generation
PRF represents an evolution of platelet therapy. Unlike PRP, which requires anticoagulants during processing, PRF is spun at lower centrifugation speeds without additives, producing a fibrin matrix that traps platelets, white blood cells, and stem cells within a natural scaffold. This fibrin network releases growth factors gradually over seven to ten days rather than in a single burst, providing a sustained regenerative signal. Clinical studies demonstrate that PRF contains up to ten times the concentration of white blood cells compared to PRP, enhancing the anti-inflammatory and healing response.
How PRP and PRF Stimulate Renewal
When injected into the skin or scalp, these platelet concentrates activate fibroblasts -- the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. In the scalp, growth factors penetrate the dermal papilla of hair follicles, extending the anagen (growth) phase and increasing follicle diameter. For facial rejuvenation, the cascade of growth factors triggers neocollagenesis that continues for months after treatment, progressively improving skin texture, tone, and firmness from within.
Treatment Timeline
First Signs
2-4 weeks post-treatment
Full Effect
3-6 months (peak collagen remodeling)
Treatment Time
60-90 minutes
Recovery
1-3 days of mild redness
Benefits of PRP and PRF
Your Body's Own Healing Power
- 01
100% Autologous
Uses only your own blood with no synthetic fillers, eliminating allergic reaction risk
- 02
Natural Collagen Boost
Stimulates your body's own collagen and elastin production for genuine improvement
- 03
Dual Application
Effective for both facial skin rejuvenation and scalp hair restoration in one platform
- 04
Progressive Results
Improvement continues for months as new collagen develops and tissue remodels
- 05
Minimal Downtime
Most patients return to normal activities within one to three days after treatment
- 06
Pairs with Microneedling
Combines with SkinPen or Morpheus8 to amplify collagen induction and product absorption
PRP and PRF vs. Alternatives
Compare Your Options
| Treatment | Mechanism | Time | Results | Duration | Downtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRP | Concentrated platelet growth factors | 60-90 min | 2-4 weeks | 12-18 months | 1-3 days | Skin rejuvenation and hair restoration |
| PRF | Fibrin-matrix sustained growth factor release | 60-90 min | 2-4 weeks | 12-18 months | 1-3 days | Sustained regeneration and deeper healing |
| Growth Factor Serums | Topical growth factor application | 5 min daily | 4-8 weeks | Ongoing use required | None | Maintenance between procedures |
| Exosomes | Cell-derived signaling vesicles | 30-60 min | 2-6 weeks | 6-12 months | 1-2 days | Advanced cellular communication |
PRP & PRF
PRP & PRF
Real Results
Most patients notice initial improvements in skin glow and texture within two to four weeks of their PRP or PRF treatment. Peak collagen remodeling and hair regrowth typically develop over three to six months with a recommended series of three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. Results can last 12 to 18 months with maintenance sessions. Individual outcomes vary based on age, skin condition, hair loss severity, and treatment protocol.
View All
Who Is a Good Candidate for PRP and PRF?
Finding Your Best Results
PRP and PRF therapy is ideal for adults who want to improve skin quality, reduce signs of aging, or address thinning hair using their body's own regenerative biology. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your skin condition, hair loss pattern, and overall health to determine the optimal platelet therapy protocol.
Ideal Candidates for PRP and PRF
- Adults noticing early to moderate signs of facial aging including fine lines, dullness, and uneven texture
- Men and women experiencing androgenetic alopecia or diffuse hair thinning
- Patients seeking a natural, non-synthetic approach to skin and hair rejuvenation
- Those in good overall health with adequate platelet counts and no blood disorders
- Patients willing to commit to a series of treatments for optimal cumulative results
Who Should Wait or Avoid PRP and PRF
- Active skin infections, open wounds, or acute inflammatory conditions at the treatment site
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Patients with platelet dysfunction disorders, thrombocytopenia, or active blood cancers
- Individuals on chronic anticoagulation therapy or immunosuppressive medications
- History of keloid scarring or connective tissue disorders such as scleroderma
PRP and PRF for Hair Restoration
Both men and women experiencing early to moderate hair thinning can benefit from PRP and PRF scalp injections. The treatment works best when hair follicles are miniaturized but still present -- a thorough scalp assessment helps determine whether you are a strong candidate for platelet-based hair restoration.
All candidates undergo a complete medical history review and consultation before treatment. Our team will discuss any medications, supplements, or conditions that may affect your eligibility or treatment approach.
PRP and PRF Treatment Overview
Centrifugation
Our team processes your blood in a medical-grade centrifuge to isolate the concentrated PRP or PRF layer rich in platelets and growth factors.
Preparation
Our team cleanses the treatment area and applies topical numbing to ensure your comfort, then prepares the platelet concentrate for delivery.
Application
Using microinjections or in combination with SkinPen microneedling, our team delivers PRP or PRF directly into targeted facial skin or scalp tissue.
Review
You will review the treated areas together with our team and receive personalized aftercare instructions to optimize healing and results.
PRP and PRF Risks and Side Effects
What to Know
Common PRP and PRF Side Effects
The most common side effects include temporary redness, mild swelling, pinpoint bruising, and tenderness at the treatment site. Because PRP and PRF are derived entirely from your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or immune rejection is virtually eliminated. These effects are a normal part of the healing response and typically resolve within one to three days.
Less Common Side Effects
Some patients may experience temporary headache after scalp treatments, localized numbness lasting several hours, or minor skin peeling as cellular turnover accelerates. Infection at injection sites is rare when performed under sterile technique. Temporary hair shedding may occur in the first two weeks after scalp PRP or PRF before new growth begins -- this is a normal part of the follicular reset process.
Safety Profile
PRP and PRF have an excellent safety profile supported by decades of use in orthopedics, dentistry, and dermatology. Because these treatments use your own biological material without synthetic additives, adverse reactions are extremely uncommon. Brittnee Keyes' clinical experience and sterile processing protocols help ensure safe, consistent outcomes. Dr. Joel Strehl, MD, FACS provides board-certified medical oversight for all regenerative procedures at Eternal Wellness Medical Spa.
PRP and PRF Cost in Traverse City
Pricing and Payment Options
PRP and PRF therapy in Traverse City, MI typically ranges from $600 to $1,200 per session depending on the treatment area, the type of platelet concentrate used (PRP vs. PRF), and whether it is combined with microneedling. Most patients benefit from a series of three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart, with a typical series investment of $1,800 to $3,600. During your consultation, our team will provide a personalized quote based on your specific goals and treatment plan.
PRP and PRF Pricing Factors
- Treatment area -- Facial rejuvenation and scalp hair restoration have different protocols and pricing
- PRP vs. PRF -- PRF preparation requires specialized processing that may affect session cost
- Combination therapy -- Adding SkinPen microneedling or Morpheus8 enhances results and adjusts pricing
- Number of sessions -- Series packages often provide per-session savings over individual treatments
Flexible Payment Options
We believe quality regenerative care should be accessible to everyone. Eternal Wellness Medical Spa offers a flexible financing option to fit your budget:
- Cherry -- Flexible monthly payment plans with quick approval and no hard credit check
Why Choose Eternal Wellness Medical Spa for PRP and PRF
Traverse City's Trusted Provider
Regenerative Expertise
Over 15 years of clinical experience with advanced platelet therapy protocols
Customized Protocols
Tailored PRP or PRF selection based on your specific skin condition or hair loss pattern
Combination Treatments
Seamlessly integrates PRP and PRF with SkinPen and Morpheus8 for amplified results
Medical-Grade Safety
Board-certified surgeon oversight by Dr. Joel Strehl, MD, FACS ensures the highest standards
Explore More
Related Services
Complement your PRP and PRF with these popular treatments.
Injectables
Smooth wrinkles, restore volume, and enhance your natural features with Botox, Dysport, and dermal fillers
Skin & Skin Care
Maintain healthy, radiant skin with customized facials, waxing, and DiolazeXL laser hair removal
PRP and PRF FAQ
Your Questions Answered
01 What is the difference between PRP and PRF?
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is created using higher centrifugation speeds with an anticoagulant, producing a liquid concentrate of platelets and growth factors. PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is processed at lower speeds without additives, creating a fibrin matrix that releases growth factors gradually over seven to ten days. Our team will recommend the optimal option based on your specific treatment goals.
02 How many PRP or PRF sessions will I need?
Most patients achieve optimal results with a series of three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. For hair restoration, some patients benefit from four to six sessions. During your consultation, our team will assess your skin or scalp condition and recommend a personalized treatment schedule.
03 Does PRP and PRF treatment hurt?
Most patients report mild discomfort during treatment. We apply topical numbing cream before injections, and the blood draw is comparable to routine lab work. When combined with microneedling, the numbing cream ensures the procedure is well-tolerated. Patients typically describe the sensation as a light prickling.
04 Can PRP and PRF be combined with other treatments?
Yes, PRP and PRF work exceptionally well when combined with SkinPen microneedling or Morpheus8 RF microneedling. The micro-channels created by these devices allow platelet growth factors to penetrate deeper into the skin or scalp, significantly amplifying collagen induction and treatment efficacy.
05 How long do PRP and PRF results last?
Results typically last 12 to 18 months following a complete treatment series. Many patients schedule one to two annual maintenance sessions to sustain their improvement. Hair restoration results are cumulative, with ongoing treatments helping to maintain follicle health and new growth over time.
06 Is PRP and PRF safe since it uses my own blood?
PRP and PRF have an excellent safety profile precisely because they are autologous -- derived entirely from your own blood. This eliminates the risk of allergic reactions, immune rejection, or disease transmission. The most common side effects are mild redness and swelling that resolve within one to three days.
07 Can PRP and PRF help with hair loss?
Yes, PRP and PRF are effective for both men and women experiencing androgenetic alopecia and diffuse hair thinning. Growth factors stimulate dormant hair follicles, increase follicle diameter, and extend the active growth phase. Treatment works best when follicles are miniaturized but still present.
08 Is PRP and PRF treatment covered by insurance?
PRP and PRF for aesthetic purposes including skin rejuvenation and cosmetic hair restoration are considered elective procedures and are typically not covered by medical insurance. We offer flexible financing through Cherry to make treatment accessible and affordable.
Location400 W Front St, #200
Traverse City, MI, 49684
Traverse City, MI, 49684
Main(231) 252-4474
Schedule Your PRP and PRF Consultation
References
- PubMed (PMID: 33587700) - Systematic review demonstrated that PRP injections significantly improve skin texture, tone, and wrinkle severity with high patient satisfaction rates across multiple clinical trials.
- PubMed (PMID: 31613151) - Prospective study found that PRP combined with microneedling produced statistically significant improvement in acne scarring and skin rejuvenation compared to microneedling alone.
- PubMed (PMID: 29287167) - Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials confirmed that PRP injections produce significant improvement in hair density and thickness for patients with androgenetic alopecia.
- PubMed (PMID: 33296604) - Comparative study showed that PRF releases growth factors over a sustained seven-to-ten-day period compared to PRP's rapid release, supporting superior tissue regeneration in clinical applications.
- PubMed (PMID: 34398875) - Multi-center safety analysis confirmed an extremely low adverse event rate for autologous platelet therapies, with the majority of effects being mild and self-resolving.
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) - Recognizes PRP as a promising adjunctive therapy for androgenetic alopecia and facial rejuvenation, with growing clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety profile.