PRP in Hair Loss Treatment: 7 Powerful Ways PRP Transforms Hair Loss

Hair loss is a prevalent condition affecting men and women across all age groups. Hair loss can significantly impact an individual’s confidence and quality of life, whether caused by genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, or medical conditions. In recent years, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapies have emerged as promising treatments. These regenerative approaches leverage the body’s natural healing mechanisms to stimulate hair growth and improve hair density. This article delves into the science, application methods, success rates, treatment protocols, and maintenance required for optimal outcomes.

Understanding PRP and PRF

What is PRP?

PRP is a concentrated solution of platelets derived from the patient’s blood. Platelets are rich in growth factors essential for tissue repair, cell proliferation, and regeneration. In hair loss treatment, PRP is used to:

• Reactivate dormant hair follicles.
• Enhance hair shaft thickness.
• Promote vascularisation in the scalp to improve blood supply to the follicles.

What is PRF?

PRF, the next evolution of PRP, differs in its preparation and composition. While PRP is processed with anticoagulants to maintain liquid form, PRF is prepared without additives, allowing it to form a fibrin matrix that serves as a scaffold for the sustained release of growth factors. PRF contains:

• A higher concentration of platelets and leukocytes.
• Mesenchymal stem cells that aid in tissue regeneration.
• A fibrin clot that ensures the gradual release of growth factors over several days.

PRP vs PRF: Key Differences

Mechanism of Action of PRP in Hair Loss Treatment

Both PRP and PRF target hair loss at the follicular level. Growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) are delivered to the scalp, where they:

1. Stimulate Cellular Activity: Reactivate hair follicle stem cells and dermal papilla cells, key players in hair growth.
2. Increase Blood Flow: Promote angiogenesis, ensuring better oxygen and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
3. Prolong the Hair Cycle: Extend the anagen (growth) phase while delaying the telogen (shedding) phase.
4. Reduce Inflammation: Combat scalp inflammation, a common factor in conditions like androgenetic alopecia.

Application Methods: Microneedling and Mesotherapy

Microneedling

Microneedling involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the scalp. These tiny punctures trigger the body’s natural healing process, increasing collagen production and enhancing the absorption of PRP or PRF.

Benefits of Microneedling:

• Boosts natural scalp repair mechanisms.
• Creates micro-channels for better penetration of PRP/PRF.
• Minimally invasive with low discomfort.

How It Works with PRP/PRF

After microneedling, PRP or PRF is applied topically to the scalp. The open micro-channels created by the needles facilitate deeper penetration of growth factors, ensuring they reach the follicular level.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy involves injecting small amounts of PRP or PRF directly into the scalp dermis using fine needles. This precise method ensures growth factors are delivered exactly where they are needed.

Benefits of Mesotherapy:

• Precise targeting of thinning areas.
• Immediate delivery of active components to hair follicles.
• Can be combined with additional nutrients like vitamins or peptides.

How It Works with PRP/PRF

PRP or PRF is loaded into a syringe and injected in a grid pattern across the scalp, focusing on areas with visible thinning. This ensures an even distribution of growth factors for uniform results.

Microneedling vs Mesotherapy: A Detailed Comparison

Which Is Better?

The choice between microneedling and mesotherapy depends on the individual’s condition. For general scalp rejuvenation, microneedling is an excellent choice. For targeted areas of thinning, mesotherapy offers precise and effective treatment. However, combining the two techniques often yields the best results.

Success Rates of PRP and PRF

Numerous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of PRP and PRF in treating hair loss:

• PRP Success Rates:
  • Studies report an improvement in hair density and thickness in 70–80% of patients after 4–6 sessions.
  • PRP is especially effective for androgenetic alopecia, showing significant reductions in hair shedding.
• PRF Success Rates:
  • PRF offers superior results for patients with advanced hair thinning due to its prolonged growth factor release.
  • Clinical trials show PRF can increase hair count by up to 30–40% after six months.

Both treatments work best in individuals with functioning hair follicles; they are less effective in completely bald areas.

When to Expect Results

Hair regrowth is a gradual process. Most patients notice changes in stages:

• Initial Changes (1–2 Months): Reduced hair shedding and an improvement in scalp health.
• Visible Growth (3–4 Months): New hair starts to grow, appearing as fine, baby hairs.
• Substantial Growth (6–8 Months): Increased hair density and thickness become noticeable.
• Optimal Results (12 Months): Full improvement is evident, with hair regrowth stabilised.

Patience is key, as hair follicles require time to respond to growth factors and regenerate.

Treatment Protocols

Initial Treatment Plan

• Frequency: Most protocols recommend 4–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
• Preparation: Patients are advised to avoid anti-inflammatory medications and alcohol for 48 hours before treatment to enhance efficacy.
• Duration: Each session lasts approximately 60 minutes, including preparation, application, and recovery.

Maintenance Therapy

• Frequency: After the initial series, maintenance sessions are recommended every 4–6 months.
• Purpose: Maintenance ensures continued stimulation of hair follicles, preventing regression of results.

Combined Approach for Superior Results

A synergistic approach that combines microneedling and mesotherapy delivers optimal outcomes.

1. Microneedling prepares the scalp by creating channels for PRP or PRF absorption.
2. Mesotherapy delivers concentrated growth factors directly to thinning areas.
3. Ongoing Maintenance sustains results over time.

This combination approach is especially effective for patients with diffuse thinning or those in the early stages of androgenetic alopecia.

Patient Suitability

PRP and PRF are most effective in individuals with early to moderate hair loss. Suitability criteria include:

• Presence of active hair follicles.
• Good overall health without underlying scalp conditions.
• A commitment to the prescribed treatment plan and maintenance schedule.

Patients with severe scarring alopecia or complete baldness are less likely to benefit from these treatments.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Both PRP and PRF are autologous treatments, meaning they use the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. However, mild side effects may occur, including:

• Redness and swelling at the treatment site.
• Temporary soreness or itching.
• Rarely, mild bruising or scalp sensitivity.

Proper aftercare, such as avoiding sun exposure and refraining from harsh scalp products, helps minimise these effects.

Conclusion

PRP and PRF therapies have revolutionised the treatment of hair loss by leveraging the body’s natural regenerative capabilities. While PRF offers a longer-lasting and more natural approach, PRP remains highly effective and widely accessible. When combined with techniques like microneedling and mesotherapy, these therapies can deliver remarkable improvements in hair density, thickness, and overall scalp health.

The success of these treatments depends on early intervention, adherence to recommended protocols, and ongoing maintenance. For individuals experiencing hair loss, PRP and PRF provide a safe, minimally invasive, and scientifically validated solution that can restore not just hair, but confidence as well.

FAQs on PRP and PRF in Hair Loss Treatment

1. What is the difference between PRP and PRF for hair loss treatment?

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) are both derived from the patient’s blood and used to treat hair loss by delivering growth factors to the scalp. The main differences are:

• Preparation: PRP is prepared with anticoagulants to prevent clotting, while PRF is processed without additives, allowing it to form a fibrin matrix.
• Growth Factor Release: PRP provides an immediate release of growth factors, whereas PRF offers a gradual and sustained release.
• Effectiveness: PRF is generally considered more effective due to its higher platelet concentration, inclusion of white blood cells, and natural composition.

2. How effective is PRP or PRF in treating hair loss?

Both PRP and PRF have shown significant effectiveness in stimulating hair growth, particularly in cases of androgenetic alopecia and early-stage hair thinning. Studies indicate:

• PRP improves hair density and thickness in 70–80% of patients after 4–6 sessions.
• PRF can result in up to a 30–40% increase in hair count over six months.
  Results vary depending on the severity of hair loss, age, and adherence to treatment protocols.

3. What is the treatment protocol for PRP and PRF?

The typical protocol involves:

1. Initial Treatment: 4–6 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
2. Maintenance: One session every 4–6 months to sustain results.
3. Session Duration: Each session lasts around 60 minutes, including preparation, application, and recovery.

Patients are advised to avoid anti-inflammatory medications, alcohol, and strenuous exercise for 48 hours before and after the treatment to optimise results.

4. When can I expect to see results from PRP or PRF therapy?

Hair regrowth occurs gradually over several months:

• 1–2 Months: Reduction in hair shedding and improvement in scalp health.
• 3–4 Months: New hair growth becomes noticeable, often appearing as fine, baby hairs.
• 6–8 Months: Substantial improvements in hair density and thickness.
• 12 Months: Full results are typically achieved, with the treatment stabilising hair regrowth.

Consistency in sessions and proper maintenance are key to achieving optimal results.

5. Which application method is better: microneedling or mesotherapy?

Both methods have unique advantages:

• Microneedling: Best for overall scalp rejuvenation, creating micro-channels for better absorption of PRP/PRF. It is less invasive with minimal discomfort.
• Mesotherapy: Ideal for targeted treatment, as it delivers growth factors directly to specific areas. It is more invasive but ensures precise application.

A combined approach—microneedling followed by mesotherapy—often yields superior results by enhancing absorption and targeting problem areas.

6. Who is a good candidate for PRP or PRF hair treatment?

Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing early to moderate hair loss, such as:

• Men and women with androgenetic alopecia.
• Patients with hair thinning due to hormonal imbalances or stress.
• Those with functioning hair follicles (i.e., not completely bald areas).

PRP and PRF may not be as effective for individuals with scarring alopecia or advanced baldness. A consultation with a hair restoration specialist is essential to assess suitability.

7. How long do the results of PRP and PRF last?

With proper maintenance, the results of PRP and PRF can last for years. However, hair loss is a progressive condition, so ongoing maintenance sessions every 4–6 months are typically required to sustain improvements.

Without maintenance, the effects may diminish over time, and hair loss could resume.

8. Are PRP and PRF treatments safe?

Yes, both PRP and PRF are considered very safe as they use the patient’s own blood, minimising the risk of allergic reactions or infections. Common side effects are mild and include:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or soreness at the treatment site.
• Mild bruising or itching, which resolves within a few days.
  Serious complications are extremely rare when performed by trained professionals.

9. How does PRP/PRF compare to other hair loss treatments?

• Compared to Topical Treatments (e.g., Minoxidil): PRP/PRF works at a deeper level by stimulating the hair follicle and promoting vascularisation, offering longer-lasting results.
• Compared to Oral Medications (e.g., Finasteride): PRP/PRF avoids systemic side effects, such as hormonal imbalances, and is suitable for patients who cannot tolerate oral medications.
• Compared to Hair Transplants: PRP/PRF is less invasive, has no downtime, and is effective in enhancing the results of hair transplants by improving graft survival.

10. How much does PRP or PRF therapy cost?

Costs vary depending on the provider, geographic location, and the number of sessions required.

• PRP treatments typically cost £300–£600 per session.
• PRF treatments are slightly more expensive, ranging from £400–£800 per session due to the advanced preparation process.

While the cost may seem high, many patients consider PRP and PRF a worthwhile investment due to their effectiveness and long-lasting results.

References

Recent clinical studies have explored the efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) in treating hair loss. Here are ten notable references:

1. Hassan, L., et al. (2024). “Compare the Efficacy of PRP Intervention vs. Exosomes for Hair Loss: A Case Series Study.” Dermis, 4(3), 19.
   This study compares PRP and exosome therapies, finding both effective in improving hair condition, with exosomes showing significant improvement after a single session. J Dermis
2. Mao, G., Zhang, G., & Fan, W. (2019). “Platelet-Rich Plasma for Treating Androgenic Alopecia: A Systematic Review.” Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 43, 1326–1336.
   A meta-analysis indicating that PRP injections significantly increase hair density in patients with androgenic alopecia. SpringerLink
3. Chopra, V. K., Shalhoub, R., & Bitar, G. J. (2021). “The Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Hair Loss: A Proven Therapy.” In Plastic and Aesthetic Regenerative Surgery and Fat Grafting (pp. 603–612). Springer.
   This chapter discusses advances in hair restoration using PRP, highlighting positive responses in patients with androgenic alopecia. SpringerLink
4. Advanced Dermatology (2023). “PRP vs. PRF: Which is Better for Hair Loss?”
   An article comparing PRP and PRF, discussing their effectiveness in promoting hair growth in individuals with androgenetic alopecia. Advanced Dermatology
5. Dynamic Regenerative Medicine (2021). “How Effective is PRP Treatment in Hair Regrowth? A Review of the Evidence.”
   A review summarising evidence on PRP’s effectiveness in hair regrowth, noting positive effects on hair thickness and density. Dynamic Regen Medicine
6. National Cancer Institute (2020). “A Study of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment for Hair Loss after Cancer Therapy.”
   A clinical trial assessing PRP injections for treating hair loss induced by cancer therapies. National Cancer Institute
7. Springer (2023). “Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia: A Meta-Analysis.” Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 47(1), 123–134.
   This meta-analysis evaluates PRP’s efficacy in treating androgenic alopecia, finding significant increases in hair density. SpringerLink
8. Face Med Store (2021). “PRP Hair Loss Treatment Clinical Studies: What The Science Has To Say.”
   An article reviewing clinical studies on PRP for hair loss, highlighting its potential in hair restoration. FaceMed Store

These references provide insights into the clinical applications and effectiveness of PRP and PRF in hair loss treatments.