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What Is PRP Hair Loss Treatment?

Michael Citron M.D.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) hair loss treatment is a non-surgical medical therapy that uses a patient’s own blood to stimulate hair regrowth. The treatment involves drawing blood, separating out platelet-rich plasma through a centrifuge, and injecting it into thinning areas of the scalp. The plasma contains a high concentration of growth factors, which help stimulate inactive hair follicles and strengthen existing ones. Because it uses the body’s natural healing components, PRP is considered safe, minimally invasive, and effective when performed consistently.

What Is PRP Hair Loss Treatment?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) hair loss treatment is a non-surgical medical therapy that uses a patient’s own blood to stimulate hair regrowth. The treatment involves drawing blood, separating out platelet-rich plasma through a centrifuge, and injecting it into thinning areas of the scalp. The plasma contains a high concentration of growth factors, which help stimulate inactive hair follicles and strengthen existing ones. Because it uses the body’s natural healing components, PRP is considered safe, minimally invasive, and effective when performed consistently.

How PRP Stimulates Hair Growth

PRP works by activating the body’s natural repair mechanisms. Growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor (TGF) encourage tissue regeneration. When injected into the scalp, these proteins signal hair follicles to enter the active growth (anagen) phase. Clinical studies have shown measurable improvement in hair density, diameter, and overall coverage after a series of PRP treatments.

The PRP Treatment Process

A typical PRP treatment session includes several precise steps:

  1. Blood draw: About 15–20 milliliters of blood is taken from the patient’s arm.
  2. Centrifugation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge for 10–15 minutes, separating platelet-rich plasma from red and white blood cells.
  3. Preparation: The PRP is collected and prepared in syringes.
  4. Scalp injections: Small amounts of PRP are injected into areas of thinning or receding hair, usually spaced about 1 centimeter apart.

The entire procedure lasts around 60–90 minutes, with minimal downtime. Patients often return to work immediately after treatment.

How Many Sessions Are Required?

Most patients undergo an initial series of 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Maintenance treatments every 6–12 months are recommended to sustain results. Studies report that 70–80% of patients see visible improvements after completing their first treatment series. For example, one 2022 review found that participants experienced a 45% increase in hair density after one year of consistent therapy.

Benefits of PRP Hair Restoration

PRP offers several unique benefits compared to surgical or pharmaceutical approaches:

  • Non-surgical: No incisions, stitches, or long recovery periods are required.
  • Low risk: Because the plasma comes from the patient’s own blood, the chance of rejection or allergic reaction is extremely low.
  • Natural results: The therapy enhances the body’s own healing response, creating gradual and natural-looking improvements.
  • Quick recovery: Mild swelling or redness at injection sites typically resolves within 24–48 hours.

Who Is the Best Candidate?

PRP is most effective in men and women with early to moderate hair loss. Candidates with androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, tend to respond well, particularly when follicles are still partially active. It is less effective for individuals with complete baldness or scarring alopecia where follicles are permanently damaged. Patients with blood clotting disorders or those taking blood thinners may not qualify.

Are There Side Effects?

PRP side effects are minimal compared to other treatments. Temporary redness, mild swelling, and tenderness at injection points are the most common. Rarely, patients may experience minor headaches or pinpoint bruising. Because PRP involves no foreign substances, the risk of serious complications is significantly lower than with synthetic fillers or medications.

Cost of PRP Hair Loss Treatment

The cost of PRP varies depending on clinic location, expertise of the provider, and number of sessions required. On average, each session costs between $500 and $2,000. Many clinics offer package deals for the initial treatment series, which can reduce per-session costs by 15–20%. Insurance does not cover PRP for hair restoration since it is considered elective.

Long-Term Effectiveness

Long-term success depends on consistency. Patients who commit to maintenance sessions once or twice a year tend to preserve their gains. Combining PRP with topical treatments such as minoxidil or oral medications like finasteride can further extend benefits. Dermatologists often recommend a multimodal approach for the best results.

Supporting Topics

Does Wearing a Hat Cause Hair Loss?

Wearing hats does not cause permanent hair loss. Hair follicles draw nutrients and oxygen from the bloodstream, not from external air. While extremely tight hats may create friction or tension that weakens strands, this is preventable by choosing looser fits and maintaining scalp hygiene.

Can Stress Cause Hair Loss?

Stress can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary condition where more follicles shift into the resting phase of the growth cycle. This leads to increased shedding for 3–6 months. Stress reduction techniques such as exercise, mindfulness, and therapy can help restore the natural balance of hair growth.

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