Why Choose The Whole Beauty® Institute For All Your Non-Surgical & Medical Aesthetic Needs.
Dr. Cook has over 20 years of experience with all forms of facial rejuventation.
Our advanced aesthetics team provides a wide range of sophisticated treatments. Many of these can be combined with PRF to provide even greater benefits to our patients.
When treated by the Whole Beauty Team, you benefit from the guidance of Dr. Cook, a recognized plastic surgeon and leader in facial aesthetics. Dr. Cook reviews the treatment records and results of every patient to ensure ideal results are achieved.
Our experienced team will guide you as to whether PRF is the best choice for you.
Education and Credentials

Awards and Recognition

PRF – The Next Big Thing in Natural Facial Rejuvenation
If you’re curious about fresh, glowing skin but aren’t ready for fillers or more invasive treatments, you’ve probably heard whispers about PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin). It’s being called the “next generation of PRP” and is quickly becoming a go-to option for people who want to rejuvenate their face using something natural, safe, and straight from their own body.
Here’s everything you need to know about why PRF is creating so much buzz.

What Exactly Is PRF?
PRF starts with—you guessed it—your own blood. A small sample is drawn and spun in a centrifuge, but unlike older PRP treatments, PRF is spun more gently and without additives or chemicals.
This slower process keeps more of the good stuff:
- Platelets (packed with growth factors that heal and rebuild)
- Fibrin (a natural protein that acts like a scaffold, holding everything in place)
- Stem cells and white blood cells (which support healing and tissue regeneration)
The result is a thicker, gel-like concentrate that can be injected into areas of the face or applied after microneedling to boost skin renewal from the inside out.
Why People Love PRF for Skin Rejuvenation
-
It’s 100% Natural
No synthetic fillers, no chemicals—just your body’s own healing factors working for you. If “natural beauty” is your vibe, PRF is as clean as it gets.
-
Longer-Lasting Results
Unlike PRP, which releases growth factors in a quick burst, PRF works in slow motion. Thanks to the fibrin matrix, growth factors are released gradually over days, giving your skin more time to repair and renew.
-
Collagen Boosting Power
Collagen is the protein that keeps your skin smooth, plump, and youthful. As we age, collagen production slows, leading to fine lines and sagging. PRF stimulates new collagen formation—like turning back the clock on skin firmness.
-
A Softer Approach to Volume
PRF doesn’t create the dramatic changes fillers do, but it adds subtle, natural volume—especially in delicate areas like under the eyes. Think of it as a gentle “refresh,” not a total overhaul.
-
Improves Skin Quality and Hair Restoration
Beyond just volume, PRF enhances circulation, brightens dull complexions, smooths texture, and softens wrinkles over time. Many people notice their skin looks healthier, more even, and just glowy.
Where PRF Shines
- Under-eye hollows: Reduces tired, sunken look
- Fine lines and wrinkles: Smooths and softens naturally
- Overall skin texture: Improves tone and hydration
- Microneedling booster: Speeds healing and maximizes results
- Hair Restoration: fuller and improved texture and quality
What to Expect During PRF Treatment
The process is simple:
1. A small blood draw (just like a routine lab test).
2. The blood is spun in a centrifuge at a low speed.
3. The PRF is collected and either injected into specific areas or applied topically after microneedling.
There’s little to no downtime—just some mild swelling or redness for a day or two. Since it’s all from your own body, the risk of allergic reactions is basically zero.
The Bottom Line
PRF is a powerful, all-natural way to refresh your skin. By using your body’s own platelets, fibrin, and stem cells, it delivers a slow, steady rejuvenation that looks subtle, fresh, and natural.
Think of it as your skin’s personal reset button—no fillers, no drastic changes, just you, but more radiant.
PRP vs. PRF: What’s the Difference for Facial Rejuvenation?
Now that we’ve explained what PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) is and why it’s being called the next-gen PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) you’re probably wondering what’s the difference between the two—and which might be better for you?
Let’s break it down simply.

What They Have in Common
Both PRP and PRF treatments start with your own blood. A sample is taken (just like a routine blood draw) and then spun in a centrifuge to separate the healing components. These concentrated platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate collagen production, improve circulation, and promote tissue repair—all things that help skin and hair look fresher and healthier.
Neither treatment involves artificial chemicals or fillers, which makes them appealing if you want something more “natural.”
PRP: Platelet-Rich Plasma
PRP has been around longer and is often nicknamed the “vampire facial.” Here’s how it works:
- Your blood is spun at a high speed to separate the plasma from red blood cells.
- The result is a clear yellowish fluid rich in platelets and growth factors.
- This plasma can be injected into areas of the scalp, face or applied topically after microneedling.
Benefits of PRP:
- Improves skin texture and tone
- Helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Speeds up healing after procedures
- Can also be used for hair restoration
Things to know about PRP
PRP releases growth factors quickly, so results may require a series of treatments to build up. Duration is between 6-9 months.
PRF: Platelet-Rich Fibrin
PRF is sometimes called the “next generation of PRP.” The process is similar—blood is drawn and spun—but at a slower speed without added chemicals. This creates a thicker concentrate that contains not only platelets but also fibrin, white blood cells, and stem cells.
- Because of the fibrin matrix, PRF acts like a natural scaffold.
- Growth factors are released more slowly and for a longer period of time than with PRP.
- It’s often described as giving a more sustained, natural rejuvenation.
Benefits of PRF:
- Longer-lasting release of growth factors
- May require fewer sessions than PRP
- More concentrated healing components (stem cells + white blood cells)
- Can help with under-eye hollows, skin quality, and volume support, and restore hair

7 Easy Solutions for Fresh Spring Skin
We are beginning to emerge from Winter. The days are perceptively longer and early Spring flowers are pushing their way up to sunlight. Now is the time to freshen your skin...

Essential Skincare Products for Men
Article written by John Q. Cook, MD and Joy Edmonds, LC Skincare products for men are a growing interest of male patients who come to us at the Chicago and Winnetka offices...

Exfoliation Is The Key!
Article written by John Q. Cook, MD and Joy Edmonds, LC Because of the Illinois shelter-at-home, it has been at least 3 weeks since you have been able to come in for a...
Dr. Cook's Practice Blog
Explore our practice blog to learn more about non-surgical treatments and plastic surgery procedures available at The Whole Beauty® Institute. Get tips and advice, and discover new ways to improve your health and beauty.
HealthGems Blog
Dr. John Q. Cook's personal thoughts on well-being, quality of life, and more. HealthGems—from his decades of experience in the industry, studying and working with advanced technology and techniques.
Whole Beauty Skincare
SkinShopMD.com was created by Board-Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. John Q. Cook, as a trusted online resource to purchase high quality, medical-grade skincare products that protect and rejuvenate your skin.

Educational Information
Get informed about cosmetic plastic surgery procedures and rejuvenating non-surgical treatments to help you make informed decisions about your desired treatment based on your aesthetic goals.
Testimonial and Practice Videos
Schedule a Consultation
Schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, John Q. Cook, M.D., to learn more about plastic surgery solutions that may be right for you based on your aesthetic goals.
"*" indicates required fields
Our Office Locations
Our locations in the Gold Coast of Chicago and Winnetka in the North Shore reflect our commitment to convenient and discrete concierge-level service.
Chicago Office
737 North Michigan Ave., Suite 760 Chicago IL 60611 (312) 751-2112 Entrance at 151 E. Chicago Avenue
Winnetka Office
118 Green Bay Road Winnetka IL 60093 (847) 446-7562
Located directly across from Indian Hill Metra Station