Hair loss is a common concern that affects both men and women across all age groups. There are many causes and even more potential treatments. However, there is no single silver bullet for any form of hair loss. One option that has gained popularity for its potential to support regrowth is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. PRP is a non-surgical procedure that uses your own blood to stimulate the scalp, and some studies suggest it may improve hair density. In this article we explore how PRP works, who it may suit, what it involves and the risks and alternatives.
Please note that City Skin Clinic does not offer PRP injections or any in-clinic procedures. We are an online clinic providing personalised, prescription-strength topical hair loss treatments. This article is for educational purposes only. If you are considering PRP, please consult with a regulated clinic that offers it.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma Hair Treatment?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment that uses concentrates of platelets from a patient’s own blood to support tissue regeneration. Blood contains platelets that are rich in growth factors and proteins crucial for tissue repair and healing. Initially, PRP was widely used to speed up recovery in orthopaedic injuries, sports medicine and post-surgical healing. It has also been popular in dermatology for skin rejuvenation and scar treatment.
PRP hair treatment is a non-surgical procedure that uses a patient’s blood to stimulate natural hair growth. In PRP therapy, the clinician draws a little blood and spins it in a centrifuge to separate the plasma. They then inject the PRP where hair is thinning. This delivers concentrated growth factors directly to the follicles.
How Does PRP Stimulate Hair Regrowth?
Though not completely understood, PRP likely works by delivering concentrated growth factors directly to the hair follicles, which drive regrowth. PRP may help prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the follicle, which can result in healthier, thicker hair. The growth factors may also activate dormant follicles, support collagen and improve blood flow in the scalp. Together, this creates a more nourishing environment for the follicles, leading to potential improvements in hair quality, density and growth.
A growing body of research suggests some patients see improvements in hair growth and reduced shedding after PRP. However, despite the positive studies, the overall amount of research on PRP is still small, and results can vary significantly between individuals. For this reason, whilst the medical community views PRP as promising, there is still no universal consensus on how useful it is. Larger, controlled studies would help establish standardised protocols and confirm long-term efficacy and safety.
Benefits of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections for Hair Loss
PRP therapy may offer several benefits for hair thinning or hair loss by supporting regrowth and quality. Some of the potential benefits include:
- May stimulate regrowth: PRP injections deliver your own growth factors to the scalp, which may help activate dormant follicles, prolong the growth phase and support regrowth.
- May reduce hair loss: by creating a healthier environment for the follicles, PRP may reduce shedding and help maintain existing hair.
- May improve thickness and quality: the growth factors may strengthen the hair shaft, which can lead to thicker-looking strands.
- Non-surgical with quick recovery: PRP is a non-surgical procedure with minimal discomfort and little to no downtime. Most people resume daily activities immediately, though some mild soreness or redness at the injection sites may occur.
What Platelet-Rich Plasma Hair Treatment Involves
PRP hair treatment involves three main steps, with some preparation and aftercare around them. Your provider will explain these in detail and may adjust them to your treatment plan. Here is roughly what to expect:
- Preparation: unless advised otherwise, you may be asked to avoid anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or aspirin for at least a week beforehand. You will also need to stay hydrated and eat a healthy meal before your appointment. Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours beforehand, as these can interfere with platelet activity and blood flow.
- Blood draw: the process begins with drawing a small amount of blood from your arm, similar to a routine blood test.
- Centrifugation: a centrifuge spins the blood sample to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the other components. This concentrates the platelets and their growth factors.
- PRP injections: once the plasma is ready, the clinician injects it into the pre-cleaned scalp where hair is thinning. They place these injections to target follicles that need stimulation.
- Aftercare: avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours and using products like gels or sprays for at least 48 hours. Also avoid direct sun, strenuous activity and saunas for a few days. Follow any instructions from your provider to support healing.
The procedure usually takes around 60 to 90 minutes, and multiple sessions are often needed for the best results. Most people have at least 3 to 4 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Your practitioner may also recommend maintenance every 6 to 12 months.
What Kind of Results to Expect
PRP may suit both men and women with hair thinning or hair loss. It may be most useful in the early stages and for common causes like androgenetic alopecia. It could also be worth considering for people who have exhausted other non-surgical options but cannot or do not want surgery.
Results vary from person to person and depend on factors like the extent of hair loss and individual response. People generally notice reduced shedding after the first or second session. Visible improvement in thickness and new growth often appears within 3 to 6 months. However, everyone is different and consistency is key, as hair growth is a gradual process. It is really important to consult a specialist before starting an expensive, time-consuming treatment like PRP.
Risks & Side Effects
Because PRP uses your own blood, the risk of side effects is typically mild and low. This holds when a trained medical practitioner performs it properly. Even in the best hands, potential side effects include:
- Common: mild discomfort, redness or swelling at the injection sites, which typically resolve within a few days.
- Rare: allergic reaction, infection, tissue damage, nerve injury or scarring. These are more likely if an inexperienced or non-medical provider performs the treatment.
Even in the best hands, PRP may not be suitable for everyone. People who may not be suitable include:
- those with a history of blood disorders or clotting issues.
- those undergoing anticoagulant therapy.
- those with active infections or chronic skin conditions in the treatment area.
Alternative and Complementary Hair Loss Treatments
Although PRP can help with hair loss, several other treatments work alongside or instead of it. Each has its own benefits and limitations, and the best choice depends on your hair loss and preferences. The most common options include:
- Minoxidil: available over the counter in low strengths as a topical, or by prescription orally and in higher topical strengths. Minoxidil can help slow hair loss and support regrowth.
- Hormone blockers: finasteride, dutasteride and spironolactone are available by prescription, orally or topically, to treat some forms of hair loss. Due to potential side effects, they are usually a second or third-line option.
- Low-level laser therapy (LLLT): a non-invasive treatment that uses red light to stimulate follicles and support hair growth.
- Microneedling: a minimally invasive procedure that creates tiny punctures in the scalp to stimulate follicles. Microneedling improves blood circulation and enhances the absorption of topical treatments.
- Hair transplant surgery: an option for advanced hair loss, where a surgeon moves follicles from one area of the scalp to another. Hair transplant surgery is more invasive and costly, with a longer recovery, but can offer significant results. PRP is sometimes used post-surgery to support healing.
- Supplements: certain vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, zinc and iron, play a role in healthy hair. Topical caffeine and melatonin may also help support growth.
PRP may offer a non-invasive option with minimal side effects when performed correctly on the right patient. Although it is not a complete cure, it may slow thinning and support the regrowth of thicker, healthier hair. However, results vary, it is not suitable for everyone, and it often works best alongside other treatments. This is why you should consult a qualified provider who can tell you whether PRP is safe and right for you.
We strongly believe that hair regrowth is a very personal journey. Whilst we do not offer PRP, we provide personalised hair loss and regrowth treatments through our online clinic. Our doctors create bespoke topical hair loss treatments using actives like minoxidil, spironolactone, finasteride, dutasteride and tretinoin. We also treat skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and signs of skin ageing. To get started, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin and hair starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional with any concerns about your hair or treatment options.
