Understanding prp hair therapy
A small sample of your blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate a platelet-rich fraction. Platelets contain growth factors involved in tissue repair, and the concentrate is injected into the scalp at the level of the follicles.
PRP is best suited to early to moderate pattern hair loss where follicles are miniaturised rather than lost. It is an adjunct: results are better and last longer when it supports medical treatment rather than replacing it.
Response varies between individuals, and honest counselling about that variability is part of the consultation. Patients who are told what PRP can and cannot do are rarely disappointed by it.
This may suit you if
- Early to moderate pattern hair loss
- Diffuse thinning with intact follicles
- Patients already on, or starting, medical treatment
- Those who prefer an autologous option using their own blood
What happens at the clinic
- 1
Assessment and consent
Suitability is confirmed, realistic outcomes are explained, and your medical history is checked for anything that would make PRP unsuitable.
- 2
Blood draw and preparation
A small sample of blood is drawn and centrifuged in a closed system to concentrate the platelet fraction.
- 3
Scalp injection
After surface numbing, the concentrate is injected across the thinning areas in a grid pattern. The session takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
- 4
Course and maintenance
Sessions are repeated every three to four weeks for the initial course, then spaced out for maintenance.
Aftercare
- Avoid washing the hair for the period advised, usually the rest of the day
- No swimming, sauna or heavy workouts for 24 to 48 hours
- Avoid chemical hair treatments for a week
- Continue your prescribed medical treatment alongside the course
Possible side effects
- Scalp tenderness, mild swelling or bruising at injection points
- Transient headache after the session
- Infection — uncommon with sterile technique
- Variable response; some patients gain little benefit