What is the use of PR gel?

September 24, 2025 •

4 min read

The term “PR gel” can refer to a few very different products, and knowing the specific type is crucial for understanding its use and purpose. With applications ranging from cosmetic facial rejuvenation to topical pain relief and hemorrhoid treatment, this guide explains exactly what is the use of PR gel, depending on its specific formulation.

Quick Summary

PR gel is a non-specific term that can describe several distinct medical products, including Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) gel for skin rejuvenation, topical analgesic gels for pain, and rectal gels for hemorrhoids. Its application and benefits depend entirely on its specific ingredients and purpose.

Key Points

Not a Single Product: 'PR gel' is a non-specific term for several different types of medical and cosmetic gels, each with distinct uses.
PRF Gel (Platelet-Rich Fibrin): A natural regenerative treatment made from a patient's own blood, used primarily for aesthetic skin rejuvenation and tissue repair.
Topical Pain Relief: Some PR gels are analgesic or anti-inflammatory formulas (often NSAIDs) used to treat localized muscle and joint pain.
Anorectal Care: Other PR gels are formulated for external or internal use to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as itching, burning, and pain.
Safety First: Correctly identifying the specific type of PR gel is critical, as a product for one condition is not suitable for another. Always follow directions and consult a professional.
Diverse Active Ingredients: Depending on the type, PR gels can contain growth factors from blood, NSAIDs, or numbing agents like lidocaine.

Demystifying PR Gel's Diverse Medical Uses

Because the term “PR gel” is not standardized, it can lead to confusion. A key distinction must be made between medical and industrial applications, and even within the medical field, it encompasses different therapies. The most common medical uses fall into three main categories: advanced regenerative medicine (PRF gel), general topical pain relief, and anorectal care.

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Gel for Regenerative Medicine

One of the most advanced medical uses for a product often referred to as PR gel is Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) gel. This innovative therapy is created using the patient’s own blood, making it a natural, biocompatible product with minimal risk of adverse reactions. The process involves drawing a small blood sample, which is then processed in a special centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, white blood cells, and growth factors. This concentrate is then heated and cooled to form a gel-like substance.

Common uses for PRF gel include:

Cosmetic Aesthetics: Used as a natural alternative to traditional dermal fillers, PRF gel can restore lost volume, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin tone and texture. It is commonly injected into areas like the under-eyes, cheeks, and nasolabial folds.
Tissue Regeneration: The growth factors and fibrin matrix in PRF gel stimulate collagen and elastin production, promoting tissue repair and healing. This makes it valuable for wound healing and dental procedures.
Hair Restoration: PRF gel injections can be used to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.

Topical Pain Relief Gels

Another common application for a product called PR gel is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). These gels are applied directly to the skin to provide localized pain and inflammation relief, offering a targeted alternative to oral medication that may carry more systemic side effects.

Uses for topical analgesic gels include:

Muscle and Joint Pain: Effective for treating pain associated with sprains, strains, and general musculoskeletal discomfort.
Arthritis: Provides relief from pain and inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Inflammation: Works by blocking chemical messengers that cause swelling and pain in affected areas.

Gels for Anorectal Conditions

Specialized rectal gels, such as Presto Gel or Preparation H Rapid Relief, are formulated to address the painful and uncomfortable symptoms of anorectal disorders. These products typically contain active ingredients that provide numbing and soothing effects to the sensitive tissues of the anal area.

Uses for anorectal gels include:

Hemorrhoid Symptom Relief: Treats common symptoms of hemorrhoids (also known as piles), including itching, burning, and swelling.
Anal Fissures: Can help soothe and promote the healing of anal fissures by reducing irritation.
Anorectal Discomfort: Relieves general pain and discomfort in the rectal area caused by irritation.

Comparison of Common PR Gel Types


Feature	PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Gel	Topical Pain Relief Gel	Anorectal Gel
Primary Use	Regenerative medicine, aesthetics	Localized pain and inflammation	Symptom relief for hemorrhoids
Ingredients	Patient's own blood (platelets, fibrin)	NSAIDs, lidocaine, other analgesics	Lidocaine, hydrocortisone, phenylephrine, herbs
Application	Injected via syringe	Applied topically to skin	Applied externally or intrarectally
Benefits	Natural, long-term regeneration	Targeted relief, fewer systemic side effects	Immediate numbing, soothing relief
Example	PRF EZ Gel, Bio-Filler	Gag PR Gel, other topical NSAIDs	Presto Gel, Preparation H Rapid Relief

Important Considerations and Safety

Before using any product, it is essential to identify the specific type of PR gel and its intended purpose. Never assume that a gel for one condition is safe or effective for another. For PRF gel, which is derived from your own blood, the procedure must be performed by a qualified medical professional to ensure safety and sterile conditions. For over-the-counter or prescription topical gels, always read the product label and follow the instructions provided by a healthcare provider. Some ingredients, like lidocaine or hydrocortisone, should not be used on broken skin or for extended periods without medical supervision.

For more detailed information on specific medical applications and potential side effects, resources like the Mayo Clinic can provide additional guidance regarding topical applications of combined ingredients like lidocaine and hydrocortisone(https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lidocaine-and-hydrocortisone-topical-application-route-rectal-route/description/drg-20072751).

The Takeaway

The phrase “PR gel” is an umbrella term for a variety of products serving vastly different medical purposes. From promoting skin regeneration through PRF therapy to alleviating muscle pain with an NSAID gel or calming the discomfort of hemorrhoids, the correct use depends entirely on the specific formulation. Understanding these differences allows for safe and effective treatment, highlighting the need to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and product recommendations. Always verify the ingredients and intended use of any product before application.

Frequently Asked Questions

PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) gel is unique because it is made from the patient's own blood and used for regenerative purposes, such as stimulating collagen for skin rejuvenation. Other PR gels are typically manufactured topical products containing active ingredients like NSAIDs or lidocaine for pain relief.

No. You should not use a general topical pain relief gel for hemorrhoids unless it is specifically labeled for anorectal use. Gels for hemorrhoids contain ingredients formulated for the sensitive rectal area and are often FDA-approved for that purpose, whereas a general pain gel may cause irritation or be ineffective.

The duration of results varies, but PRF gel treatments for aesthetics typically last from 6 months to a year. The initial volumizing effect is followed by gradual improvement as the growth factors continue to stimulate natural collagen production over time.

Yes, common side effects of topical pain gels can include temporary skin irritation, redness, or a burning sensation at the application site. Serious side effects are rare but can occur. It is important to follow the product instructions and discontinue use if severe irritation develops.

To ensure you are using the correct product, you must consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. They can recommend the appropriate type of PR gel—whether it's a specific topical analgesic, a PRF treatment, or an anorectal cream—based on your symptoms and needs.

PRF gel is considered a very safe alternative to synthetic fillers because it is made from your body's own blood, which minimizes the risk of allergic reactions. However, it still requires a medical procedure and can have side effects like bruising or swelling at the injection site.

PRF is a more advanced version of PRP. While both are derived from the patient's blood, PRF is processed without an anticoagulant, resulting in a natural fibrin matrix that releases growth factors more slowly and over a longer period, leading to more sustained and effective regenerative effects.