PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy for hair loss has grown significantly in popularity over the past decade. It is offered both as a standalone treatment for early hair loss and as an adjunct to hair transplantation. Understanding what the evidence actually shows helps patients make informed decisions.
What Is PRP?
PRP is prepared from the patient's own blood. A blood sample is centrifuged to separate and concentrate platelets and growth factors. The resulting platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the scalp at the hair follicle level.
Platelets contain growth factors including PDGF, VEGF, EGF, and TGF-beta — all of which have roles in tissue healing and cell proliferation. The theory is that concentrated delivery of these growth factors to the follicle stimulates activity.
What Does the Evidence Show?
The evidence for PRP in hair loss is encouraging but not definitive:
What is supported: Multiple randomised controlled trials have shown statistically significant improvements in hair density and hair thickness in patients with androgenetic alopecia treated with PRP compared to control groups. A systematic review (2019) concluded that PRP was associated with significant increases in hair count per cm².
Limitations: Studies vary considerably in PRP preparation protocols, concentration, injection depth, and frequency — making direct comparison difficult. Long-term follow-up data beyond 12 months is limited. Results appear to be maintained only with ongoing treatment.
Who responds: Patients in early stages of hair loss (Norwood 1–3) with miniaturising follicles but not yet fully bald in treated areas respond better than those with completely bald areas. PRP cannot stimulate follicles that no longer exist.
PRP and Hair Transplant
The combination of PRP with hair transplantation is a common practice at quality clinics. PRP is injected into the recipient zone during or immediately after transplantation. The proposed mechanism is accelerating graft healing and reducing shock loss through enhanced growth factor delivery to the transplanted follicles.
Clinical evidence for PRP as a transplant adjunct is supportive — studies suggest reduced shock loss duration and potentially improved graft survival when PRP is used.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
A typical PRP programme for hair loss involves 3–4 sessions over 3–4 months, then maintenance sessions every 4–6 months. Benefits diminish if treatment is stopped.
PRP is offered as part of our comprehensive hair restoration programme. Our team will advise whether PRP is appropriate for your specific situation as part of the consultation process.