Microneedling vs PRF: Which Treatment Should Aesthetic Practitioners Learn First?

If you’re expanding your aesthetic treatment menu, you’ve likely come across two powerhouse treatments: microneedling and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin).

Both deliver impressive skin rejuvenation results. Both are in high demand. And both can significantly boost your clinic revenue.

But if you’re deciding which one to learn first—or whether to train in both simultaneously—this guide will help you make the right choice for your practice.

What’s the Difference Between Microneedling and PRF?

Microneedling

Microneedling uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response. This stimulates collagen and elastin production, resulting in:

·       Reduced fine lines and wrinkles

·       Improved skin texture and tone

·       Minimized acne scarring

·       Smaller pores

·       Enhanced product absorption

Microneedling is typically performed with a device like a dermapro and can be used as a standalone treatment or combined with serums and other modalities.

PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)

PRF is the next generation of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma). It involves drawing a small amount of the client’s blood, processing it in a centrifuge, and extracting the platelet-rich fibrin—which contains growth factors, white blood cells, and stem cells.

This concentrated healing serum is then applied to the skin during microneedling or injected directly into targeted areas.

PRF benefits include:

·       Accelerated healing and tissue regeneration

·       Enhanced collagen production

·       Improved skin elasticity and hydration

·       Natural, biocompatible results (using the client’s own blood)

·       Longer-lasting effects compared to PRP

PRF is often combined with microneedling to create a premium “vampire facial” treatment that delivers superior results.

Microneedling vs PRF: Key Differences

Which Should You Learn First?

Start with Microneedling If:

·       You’re new to advanced aesthetic treatments

·       You want a versatile, high-demand treatment you can offer immediately

·       You prefer a lower initial equipment investment

·       You want to build confidence with a foundational skill before advancing

Why microneedling first?

Microneedling is the foundation. It’s a treatment you’ll perform frequently, and it’s essential to master the technique, understand skin anatomy, and develop your consultation and aftercare skills.

Once you’re confident with microneedling, adding PRF becomes a natural progression—and you’ll already have the core skills in place.

Add PRF When:

·       You’ve mastered microneedling and want to offer premium treatments

·       You’re comfortable with blood handling and phlebotomy

·       Your clients are asking for advanced rejuvenation options

·       You want to increase your treatment prices and profit margins

PRF allows you to elevate your service offering and attract clients willing to invest more in their skin.

Can You Train in Both at the Same Time?

Absolutely—and many practitioners do.

If you’re confident in your foundational skills and want to hit the ground running with premium combination treatments, training in both microneedling and PRF simultaneously can be a smart move.

Benefits of training together:

·       You can offer “vampire facials” from day one

·       Higher revenue potential immediately

·       Attracts clients looking for cutting-edge treatments

·       Positions your clinic as an advanced aesthetic provider

At Cosmopro Academy, we offer combined training packages that teach you both microneedling and PRF in a comprehensive, hands-on course. You’ll learn:

·       Microneedling techniques and safety protocols

·       Blood collection and PRF processing

·       How to combine treatments for maximum results

·       Client consultation and aftercare

·       Business and marketing strategies

The Revenue Difference: Microneedling vs PRF

Let’s look at the numbers:

Microneedling Alone:

·       Average treatment price: £150

·       10 treatments per month: £1,500 revenue

·       20 treatments per month: £3,000 revenue

Microneedling + PRF:

·       Average treatment price: £300–£500

·       10 treatments per month: £3,000–£5,000 revenue

·       20 treatments per month: £6,000–£10,000 revenue

By adding PRF to your microneedling treatments, you can double your revenue per client while delivering superior results that keep clients coming back.

What Clients Are Asking For

Client demand for both treatments is growing rapidly:

·       Microneedling appeals to clients looking for effective, affordable skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime

·       PRF attracts clients who want premium, natural treatments and are willing to invest more for enhanced results

Offering both gives you the flexibility to serve different client needs and budgets—while maximizing your clinic’s earning potential.

Why Train with Cosmopro Academy?

Whether you choose to start with microneedling, PRF, or both, Cosmopro Academy provides:

·       Ofqual-regulated, nationally recognized qualifications

·       Hands-on training with live models and expert supervision

·       Comprehensive curriculum covering technique, safety, and business support

·       Product supply so you can purchase everything you need in one place

·       Ongoing support to help you launch and scale your treatments

We’ve trained hundreds of practitioners who’ve successfully added these treatments to their clinics—and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Ready to Expand Your Treatment Menu?

Whether you start with microneedling, advance to PRF, or train in both, you’re investing in treatments that are proven, profitable, and in high demand.

Our recommendation? Master microneedling first, then add PRF to create premium combination treatments that set your clinic apart.

Explore our microneedling and PRF training courses at Cosmopro Academy and take your aesthetic practice to the next level.