Understanding PRP for Hair Loss
Platelet Rich Plasma, known as PRP, is a medical treatment that uses the body’s own natural components to support tissue repair and regeneration. In the context of hair restoration, PRP is used to stimulate hair growth and improve the thickness of existing strands. It is a non surgical, minimally invasive procedure that has gained popularity for its natural approach and clinical evidence of success.
PRP for hair loss works by using a concentrated form of plasma taken from a small sample of your blood. This plasma is rich in platelets and growth factors that play a vital role in healing and tissue repair. When injected into areas of thinning or weak hair, these growth factors help to rejuvenate the hair follicles, strengthen the roots and promote the growth of new hair.
How PRP Treatment Works
The process begins with a simple blood draw, similar to what you would experience during a routine blood test. The collected blood is placed into a centrifuge, a machine that spins at high speed to separate the components. The red and white blood cells are removed, leaving behind plasma that is highly concentrated with platelets. This is the Platelet Rich Plasma used for the treatment.
The PRP is then carefully injected into targeted areas of the scalp. The injection pattern follows the natural direction of hair growth and focuses on zones where thinning or shedding is most visible. Each injection delivers growth factors that trigger the body’s own repair response, encouraging stronger and healthier follicles. The session typically takes between thirty and forty minutes.
Who Can Benefit from PRP for Hair Loss
PRP is suitable for both men and women who are experiencing early to moderate stages of hair thinning. It is particularly beneficial for people with androgenetic alopecia, also known as pattern hair loss. It can also help those affected by conditions such as alopecia areata or hair loss following hormonal changes, including after pregnancy.
PRP is not a replacement for surgical hair transplantation, but it can complement it. It may also help maintain results after a transplant by improving the health of existing follicles. Because the treatment uses the patient’s own blood, there is no risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission, making it a safe and natural option.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Consultation. The session starts with a clinical consultation to assess the scalp and hair condition. The practitioner discusses goals, medical history and previous treatments.
- Blood Collection. A small amount of blood, usually around ten to twenty millilitres, is drawn from the arm using a sterile needle.
- Separation Process. The blood sample is processed in a centrifuge to isolate the Platelet Rich Plasma. This step takes about ten minutes.
- Injection. The prepared PRP is then gently injected into the scalp using fine needles. The process targets the areas most affected by thinning.
- Completion. A cooling pad may be applied afterwards to soothe the scalp. You can resume normal activity straight away.
How PRP Stimulates Hair Growth
The platelets in PRP contain growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF). These substances communicate with cells in the scalp to promote healing and regeneration. They improve blood supply around the hair follicles, extend the growth phase of the hair cycle and reduce inflammation that can contribute to shedding.
Over several weeks, this process helps dormant follicles become active again. Many patients notice less hair shedding and stronger strands within three months. Continued sessions reinforce the effect, with visible improvement in density typically becoming clear after around six months.
Frequency and Maintenance
A standard course usually involves three sessions, one each month over three consecutive months. This builds a foundation for follicle recovery. After the initial phase, maintenance treatments are recommended every three to six months to sustain progress. The frequency can vary depending on individual response, age, health and the extent of hair loss.
Combining PRP with Other Treatments
PRP can be used on its own or in combination with other hair restoration approaches. It is often paired with topical solutions such as minoxidil, oral treatments like finasteride or dietary supplements that support hair health. Some clinics combine PRP with mesotherapy or micro needling to further enhance absorption and stimulation.
The treatment also works well as a supportive therapy following hair transplantation, as it helps grafts heal faster and improves overall density. A qualified clinician will advise the best plan based on your specific condition and goals.
Safety and Side Effects
PRP is considered a very safe treatment because it uses your own blood components. The risk of allergic reaction or infection is minimal when performed under clinical conditions. The most common side effects are mild redness, swelling or tenderness at the injection sites, which usually settle within twenty four to forty eight hours.
There is no requirement for downtime, and you can return to work or other daily activities the same day. It is best to avoid washing your hair or applying products for the first twenty four hours to allow the scalp to settle.
Aftercare and Recovery
- Avoid washing or colouring your hair for twenty four hours.
- Do not use heat styling tools or wear tight hats immediately after treatment.
- Avoid swimming, saunas or heavy exercise for two days.
- Keep the scalp clean and avoid touching the treated area unnecessarily.
- Use mild shampoo when washing the hair again.
Mild tenderness or swelling can be eased with a cool compress. If discomfort is felt, simple over the counter pain relief such as paracetamol can be used. Following these steps helps ensure even distribution of the plasma and supports the healing process.
Results and What to Expect
Hair growth is gradual and depends on the natural cycle of each follicle. Improvement often begins with a reduction in shedding, followed by thicker strands and new hair appearing along the parting or frontal area. A visible change is usually seen within three to six months, with continued strengthening as treatment progresses. The results last several months after the final session, and maintenance appointments help prolong the benefits.
Scientific Background
The use of PRP in medicine dates back several decades, first used to promote healing in surgery and orthopaedics. Its success in skin and tissue regeneration led to exploration in dermatology and hair restoration. Studies have shown that PRP can improve blood flow around hair follicles, increase follicle diameter and extend the active growth phase known as anagen. The results vary among individuals but are generally consistent when combined with proper care.
Advantages of PRP Therapy
- Uses the patient’s own blood, reducing risk of reaction
- Encourages natural hair regrowth without synthetic chemicals
- Improves thickness and strength of existing hair
- Can complement other treatments for enhanced effect
- Minimal downtime, safe for most adults
Limitations and Realistic Expectations
PRP cannot restore completely bald areas where follicles are no longer present. It is most effective for early to moderate thinning where some follicles remain active. Results depend on individual health, age and consistency with follow up care. Setting realistic expectations is an important part of the consultation process. The aim is to strengthen and rejuvenate existing hair, not to create entirely new follicles.
Cost and Duration
The typical cost for PRP for Hair Loss in the UK ranges from two hundred and fifty to three hundred pounds per session. At Dermamina, the guide price is around two hundred and eighty pounds. A course of three sessions forms a standard treatment cycle. Each session lasts about forty minutes, including preparation and post treatment care.
Preparation Before Treatment
To prepare for PRP, it is recommended to eat a light meal beforehand and stay well hydrated. Avoid alcohol and smoking for a day before the session, as both can affect platelet function. Washing the hair lightly without heavy styling products helps maintain a clean surface for treatment. Blood thinning medication should only be paused under medical advice.
Common Questions
Does PRP hurt? Most people describe mild discomfort during injection. A numbing spray or local anaesthetic can be used to reduce sensitivity.
When will I see results? Early signs such as reduced shedding may appear after two to three months. Noticeable regrowth often follows within six months.
Can PRP be used with other hair treatments? Yes. It can be safely combined with topical and oral hair restoration treatments, and with mesotherapy or micro needling.
Is PRP safe? Yes. Because it uses your own blood, there is minimal risk of reaction or infection when performed in a clinical setting.
How long do results last? Results can last several months. Regular maintenance every three to six months helps sustain progress.
How PRP Fits Within Modern Hair Restoration
Modern hair restoration is not limited to surgical transplantation. Non surgical methods like PRP focus on improving scalp health and follicle activity through natural means. By enhancing the body’s own repair system, PRP provides a scientific and holistic way to slow hair loss and maintain thicker, healthier hair. It can serve as a stand alone solution for mild cases or part of a comprehensive plan for more advanced conditions.
For an in depth overview of treatment approaches and clinical information, you can visit the main Hair Restoration page.
Summary
PRP for Hair Loss is a regenerative treatment that uses your body’s own plasma to revitalise hair follicles. It strengthens existing strands, supports new growth and helps reduce further thinning. The process involves drawing a small amount of blood, preparing the plasma and injecting it precisely into the scalp. It is suitable for both men and women, safe, and backed by growing clinical evidence. Results appear gradually and can be maintained with follow up sessions. For those seeking a natural and non surgical option for hair loss, PRP offers a scientifically supported and minimally invasive path towards stronger and healthier hair.
To learn more about this treatment and other non surgical approaches to hair restoration, visit Hair Restoration London for educational insight and guidance.
