Autologous stem cell application
We explain in plain language what autologous stem cell application is, where research on its use for hair loss currently stands, and under what conditions it may be considered. This page is for information only.
What is autologous stem cell application?
Autologous means “obtained from the person themselves.” In these procedures, a small sample is taken from your own tissue, for example from your scalp or your fat tissue. The cells obtained from this sample, or products derived from those cells, are usually applied to the scalp with fine needles.
The term “autologous stem cell” does not describe a single method but a range of different procedures. Where the tissue is taken from, how it is processed and what is applied to the scalp vary considerably from one method to another. How many stem cells the applied product contains also differs from method to method.
How it differs from a hair transplant
In a hair transplant, we take grafts containing hair follicles from the donor area one by one and place them in the thinning area. In autologous stem cell procedures, by contrast, no hair follicles are placed in the thinning area; the two are separate procedures that work in different ways.
Are stem cells, autologous stem cells and exosomes the same thing?
No. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they describe different things:
- Stem cell treatment
- A general term. The cells may come from the person themselves, from another person or from cells grown in a laboratory; the term alone does not tell you where the cells come from or how they are prepared.
- Autologous stem cell treatment
- The cells or cell-derived products are obtained from your own tissue. The word “autologous” describes only the source; it says nothing about the technique or how well it works.
- Exosomes
- Not cells, but tiny vesicles released by cells. Exosome products offered for hair are mostly obtained in a laboratory from other sources. We explain the details on our exosome application page.
This is why a finding for one cannot be carried over to another; the evidence and legal requirements for each treatment are assessed separately.
What is known about its use for hair loss?
The use of autologous stem cell procedures for hair loss is still being researched. The evidence on the effectiveness, safety and long-term results of these procedures is limited.
There are few studies, and they are small; most of them focus on male and female pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). Because the methods used differ from one another, the results are difficult to compare, and there is no generally accepted standard for how the procedure should be prepared or how many times it should be carried out.
For this reason, we do not promise any results from autologous stem cell application.
Under what conditions do we consider it?
In Turkey, cell-based procedures are subject to specific regulations and authorizations. How the cells are obtained and processed determines where, and under what authorization, the procedure may be carried out.
We consider autologous stem cell application only if the doctor who examines you finds it suitable for you, and only within the framework of these regulations and the required authorizations. During the examination, we first look at the cause of your hair loss.
This procedure does not replace a hair transplant or treatment aimed at the cause of the hair loss. If you are suitable for a hair transplant, we also discuss that option together during the examination.
Possible side effects
Redness, swelling, bruising or tenderness may occur where the tissue sample was taken and in the area where the product is applied; a small scar may remain where the tissue was taken. As with any invasive procedure, there is a risk of infection; this risk also depends on the conditions under which the cells are prepared.
You will discuss the possible risks in detail with your doctor during the examination. If a procedure is carried out, the written aftercare instructions we give you take precedence over the general information on this page. If anything unexpected happens, contact us.
Frequently asked questions
Can autologous stem cell application replace a hair transplant?
No. It does not replace a hair transplant or treatment aimed at the cause of the hair loss. Which options suit you becomes clear during the examination.
Where are the cells taken from?
It depends on the method. Usually, a small tissue sample is taken from your own scalp or fat tissue; this is mostly done under local anesthesia. During the examination, your doctor explains which method might be an option for you and under what conditions.
Are autologous stem cells and PRP the same thing?
No. In PRP, plasma prepared from your own blood is applied to the scalp. In autologous stem cell procedures, by contrast, cells or cell-derived products are obtained from a tissue sample. The two are different procedures and are subject to different conditions.
Why is it not done the same way everywhere?
Because the procedures offered under this name differ from one another. In some methods, the tissue sample is broken down into small pieces and applied to the scalp in the same session; in others, the cells are isolated or grown in a laboratory. Which method may be used, and under what authorization, also depends on these differences.
What should I ask during the examination?
You can ask what the proposed method is, how the cells are obtained and processed, under what authorization the procedure is carried out, what the possible risks are, and what other options you have. We answer these questions openly.
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.