Injectable platelet-rich fibrin (I-PRF) uses a lower centrifuge speed than standard PRP to preserve a fibrin matrix that releases growth factors gradually over 10-14 days instead of all at once. Tracking your density response to I-PRF sessions separately from PRP sessions on the same scalp is the most direct way to test whether this sustained release actually produces better results for your hair.
What Makes I-PRF Different From PRP
Both I-PRF and PRP start with your own blood. The difference is in processing. PRP uses high-speed centrifugation (typically 1,500-3,000 RPM) with an anticoagulant to isolate concentrated platelets. I-PRF uses low-speed centrifugation (around 700 RPM) without any additives, which preserves the natural fibrin matrix.
| Feature | Standard PRP | I-PRF |
|---|---|---|
| Centrifuge speed | 1,500-3,000 RPM | ~700 RPM |
| Anticoagulant added | Yes | No |
| Growth factor release | Immediate burst | Gradual (10-14 days) |
| Fibrin matrix | Absent | Intact |
| White blood cells | Varies by protocol | Retained |
| Preparation time | 15-20 minutes | 10-15 minutes |
| Cost per session | $500-2,000 | $500-2,000 |
I-PRF has a higher growth factor concentration than standard PRP due to the fibrin matrix structure. The fibrin acts as a scaffold that traps growth factors and releases them slowly as the matrix dissolves in your scalp tissue.
Step 1: Document Your Pre-Treatment Baseline
Before your first I-PRF session, capture a complete set of baseline density photos. Photograph each zone you want to monitor: frontal hairline, mid-scalp, vertex, and temples.
Record your current treatment stack:
- Finasteride: 1mg daily halts further loss in 80-90% of users, with 65% experiencing regrowth
- Minoxidil: Applied twice daily, produces 40-60% moderate regrowth
- Previous PRP sessions: Dates, number of sessions, and any density data you already have
- Supplements: Biotin, saw palmetto, or other products you use regularly
This baseline becomes your reference point for measuring I-PRF response.
Step 2: Log Each I-PRF Session With Full Protocol Details
Every I-PRF session should get its own entry in your tracking log. The protocol details matter because small changes in preparation can affect results.
Record for each session:
- Date and time
- Centrifuge protocol: RPM, duration, and number of spins
- Volume collected: Total milliliters of I-PRF drawn
- Injection zones: Which scalp areas received the I-PRF
- Injection technique: Nappage (superficial), bolus (deep), or combination
- Provider notes: Any observations about scalp condition or treatment response
Step 3: Capture Density Photos at Standard Intervals
I-PRF's gradual release mechanism means that the response timeline may differ from standard PRP. Track at these intervals:
| Weeks Post-Session | I-PRF Phase | What to Document |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Active fibrin matrix dissolution | Any shedding, redness, or scalp changes |
| 4 | Matrix fully dissolved | Early density stabilization |
| 8 | Growth phase response | First measurable density changes |
| 12 | Full response window | Peak density improvement assessment |
| 16 | Maintenance assessment | Whether gains are holding or declining |
Use identical lighting, camera distance, and head positioning for every photo. Even small variations in angle can make density comparison inaccurate.
Step 4: Compare I-PRF and PRP Response Curves
The most valuable data comes from comparing your I-PRF density trends against your PRP density trends. If you have had both treatments, you can assess side-by-side which protocol works better for your follicle biology.
Key comparison metrics:
- Peak density improvement: Maximum density gain from each treatment type
- Time to peak: How many weeks until maximum improvement appears
- Durability: How long the density gains persist after each session
- Consistency: Whether results are reproducible across multiple sessions
Standard PRP has been shown to increase hair density by 30-40% across 3-4 sessions. Compare your I-PRF numbers against this benchmark.
Step 5: Adjust Your Protocol Based on Data
After completing 3-4 I-PRF sessions with tracked density readings, you have enough data to make informed decisions with your provider.
Your data might show:
- I-PRF outperforms PRP: The gradual growth factor release works better for your scalp biology. Continue with I-PRF as your primary injectable treatment.
- PRP outperforms I-PRF: Your follicles respond better to the concentrated platelet burst. Switch back to standard PRP.
- Similar results: Both work comparably, so choose based on cost, convenience, or provider preference.
- Neither produces significant gains: Discuss alternative treatments with your dermatologist. Consider combination approaches with microneedling or medication adjustments.
Understanding the Science Behind the Tracking
The fibrin matrix in I-PRF is not just a delivery vehicle. It creates a temporary scaffold in the injection site that attracts stem cells and immune cells involved in tissue repair. This local environment may favor follicle reactivation in dormant miniaturized hairs.
Tracking captures this process in density numbers. A follicle transitioning from vellus (thin, unpigmented) to terminal (thick, pigmented) hair shows up as a gradual density increase over 8-16 weeks. The I-PRF sustained release timeline aligns with this follicle transition cycle.
Combining I-PRF With Your Treatment Stack
Most patients receiving I-PRF also use medical therapies. Keep your medication regimen stable during your I-PRF evaluation period so you can isolate the I-PRF contribution.
If you change your finasteride dose (standard is 1mg daily) or minoxidil application (5% twice daily), log the date and expect your density trends to reflect multiple variables rather than I-PRF alone.
PRP costs $500-2,000 per session, and I-PRF is typically in the same range. Factor cost per density point gained into your comparison to determine which treatment provides better value.
Start Tracking Your I-PRF Results
Upload your baseline density photos and log your first I-PRF session at myhairline.ai/analyze. Tag each session as I-PRF or PRP to build a clean comparison dataset. Learn more about PRP treatment results tracking for established protocols, or explore PRP vs microneedling tracking to add another comparison dimension.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting any hair loss treatment.