PRP hair treatment
We explain clearly and in plain language what PRP is, how we prepare and apply it, who we consider it for, and what is and is not known about it today.
What is PRP?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. We separate this plasma, in which the platelets are concentrated, from your own blood and apply it to your scalp.
Platelets (thrombocytes) play a part in blood clotting and carry substances called growth factors. When PRP is used for hair loss, the aim is to deliver these substances to the area around the hair follicles.
How do we apply PRP?
Drawing blood
We take a small amount of blood from your arm, just as for a blood test.
Preparation
We separate the blood in a centrifuge and take the plasma portion, in which the platelets are concentrated. We do this preparation in the same session as the application.
Application
We apply the plasma with fine needles to the thinning areas of the scalp.
After the procedure
In the first few days, you may notice redness, mild swelling, small bruises or tenderness at the injection points; some people may also have a temporary headache. How long these last varies from person to person. Rarely, unwanted effects such as infection may also occur.
For washing your hair and daily care, follow the written instructions we give you; the general information on this page is no substitute for those instructions. If anything unexpected happens, contact us.
Who do we consider it for?
We may consider PRP for some types of hair loss. First, we look at the cause and type of your hair loss; your doctor decides after the examination whether PRP is suitable for you.
Alongside a hair transplant
With some people who are planning a hair transplant or have already had one, we may discuss PRP as an additional option. It is not a required part of a hair transplant; we address it during the examination as a separate decision.
What do we ask during the examination?
PRP is not suitable for everyone. In some situations, we may postpone the procedure or suggest a different approach. That is why, during the examination, we ask in particular about:
- The medicines you take, especially blood thinners and any painkillers you take regularly
- Blood disorders, and bleeding or clotting problems
- An infection of the scalp or an ongoing skin condition
- Serious chronic or past illnesses
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
What is and is not known about PRP?
In brief, this is what is known today:
- Most research has focused on male and female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). For other types of hair loss, the information is more limited.
- Most of the studies are small and use different methods, so their results are difficult to compare.
- There is no single, generally accepted standard for how the plasma should be prepared, or for how many sessions should be given and at what intervals.
- Few studies have looked at long-term results. It is also unclear whether PRP makes any additional difference when used alongside a hair transplant.
- Results vary from person to person; some people may not see a noticeable difference.
It is not a substitute for a hair transplant
PRP is not an option for bald areas where no hair follicles remain; for these areas, we consider a hair transplant. Nor does PRP replace treatment aimed at the cause of the hair loss. You can also consult a dermatologist about the cause of your hair loss and the treatment options.
How many sessions are needed?
PRP is usually not a one-off procedure; we generally plan several sessions at intervals. We set the number of sessions and the interval for you individually after the examination. For some people, repeat sessions may also be considered later on.
It takes time to see whether anything has changed, and how long this takes is not the same for everyone. At follow-up appointments, we assess the condition of your hair and decide together with you whether to continue the procedure.
Frequently asked questions
Can PRP replace a hair transplant?
No. PRP is not an option for bald areas where no hair follicles remain; for these areas, we consider a hair transplant. In some cases, we may discuss PRP as an addition to a transplant.
Is PRP used for every type of hair loss?
No. PRP is not an option for every type of hair loss, and even when it is used, it is not certain that there will be a difference. After looking at the cause and type of your hair loss, your doctor decides whether PRP is suitable for you.
What will I feel during the procedure?
You may feel a pricking or aching sensation during the injections; what you feel varies from person to person. Before the procedure, you can ask your doctor any questions you have.
Whose blood is used in PRP?
Your own blood. We prepare the plasma in the same session, from the small amount of blood we take from your arm.
What can happen after the procedure?
In the first few days, redness, mild swelling or tenderness may occur at the injection points. If these symptoms do not go away or get worse, or if anything unexpected happens, contact us.
When can I wash my hair after PRP?
We state when and how to wash your hair in the written instructions we give you. You may read different timings elsewhere; follow your own instructions.
What is the difference between mesotherapy and PRP?
Both are done on the scalp with fine needles; the difference lies in what we apply. In PRP, we apply plasma prepared from your own blood; in mesotherapy, we apply a mixture whose contents your doctor decides on. Whether either of them suits you becomes clear during the examination.
Hair analysis
Leave your name and phone number, and we will get back to you by phone or on WhatsApp. We do not ask for health information or photos in this form.
What happens next?
- We contact you by phone or on WhatsApp to arrange a preliminary consultation at a time that suits you.
- In the consultation, we listen to your expectations and explain the procedure and the process. If photos are needed, we tell you separately how to share them.
- Whether a procedure is suitable for you is decided at the doctor's examination. Fees and dates are discussed after planning.