Researchers have found that combining microneedling with autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) may deliver better outcomes than traditional platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments in reducing abdominal stretch marks, also known as striae distensae.

The findings come from a randomised comparative study published in the Archives of Dermatological Research in March 2025. 

PRP and PRF are both blood-derived treatments used in regenerative medicine and aesthetics, but they differ in composition and performance.

PRP is a liquid concentrate of platelets obtained using anticoagulants and high-speed centrifugation, leading to a rapid but short-lived release of growth factors. In contrast, PRF is prepared without additives using slower centrifugation, resulting in a fibrin-rich gel that releases growth factors more gradually over several days. PRF also contains white blood cells and provides a natural scaffold that supports longer-lasting tissue regeneration. 

The study involved 30 participants who received treatments on both sides of their abdomens using a split-method approach. One side was treated with microneedling combined with PRF, while the other side received microneedling with PRP.

Over the course of three sessions, spaced one month apart, researchers monitored skin improvement using clinical photography, measurement tools, patient feedback, and skin biopsies. 

While both treatment types led to significant visible improvements in stretch mark appearance, PRF appeared to slightly outperform PRP in terms of skin texture and patient satisfaction – though the differences weren’t statistically significant. 

“Platelet-rich fibrin may offer a more natural and longer-lasting release of growth factors compared to PRP,” the researchers noted, pointing to its ease of preparation and cost-effectiveness as additional benefits.