PRP Therapy for Hair Loss: Does It Work and When to Combine with a Transplant
What Is PRP Therapy for Hair Loss?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical hair loss treatment that uses your own blood platelets to stimulate hair follicle growth. A small sample of your blood is centrifuged to concentrate the platelets, then injected into the scalp areas experiencing thinning.
PRP contains growth factors that:
- Stimulate dormant hair follicles
- Increase blood supply to the scalp
- Prolong the growth (anagen) phase of the hair cycle
- Reduce inflammation around follicles
Does PRP Therapy Actually Work?
Clinical studies show PRP can be effective for androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness), particularly in the early stages. Results vary by individual, but most patients see:
- Increased hair density in treated areas
- Thicker individual hair shafts
- Reduced hair shedding
PRP is not a cure for baldness. It works best for thinning hair, not completely bald areas where follicles are dead — those require a hair transplant.
PRP After a Hair Transplant: Why Combine Them?
Many top UK clinics now offer PRP as an add-on to FUE and DHI transplants. Combining the two can:
- Accelerate healing — PRP reduces inflammation and speeds up recovery
- Improve graft survival — growth factors nourish newly transplanted follicles
- Enhance existing hair — PRP stimulates the surrounding non-transplanted hair
- Extend results — ongoing PRP sessions can maintain native hair longer
When Is PRP Recommended After a Transplant?
- 2–4 weeks post-procedure — to support graft healing
- 3 months post-procedure — to boost new growth
- Every 6–12 months — as maintenance to protect existing hair
How Much Does PRP Therapy Cost in the UK?
| Session Type | Cost Range | |---|---| | Single PRP session | £200–£400 | | PRP course (3 sessions) | £500–£900 | | PRP add-on to transplant | £150–£300 per session |
Most patients need 3 initial sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, followed by maintenance sessions every 6–12 months.
What to Expect During PRP Treatment
- Blood draw — a small sample (10–20ml) is taken from your arm
- Centrifuge — the blood is spun to separate the platelet-rich plasma
- Scalp injections — PRP is injected into targeted areas using a fine needle
- Duration — the entire process takes 30–45 minutes
- Downtime — none. You can return to work immediately
PRP Side Effects and Risks
PRP is generally safe because it uses your own blood, eliminating allergy risk. Minor side effects include:
- Mild soreness at injection sites (24–48 hours)
- Slight swelling
- Tiny pinpoint scabs (heal within days)
PRP vs Minoxidil vs Finasteride
| Treatment | Mechanism | Best For | Downtime | |---|---|---|---| | PRP | Growth factors from your blood | Early thinning, post-transplant boost | None | | Minoxidil | Topical vasodilator | Daily maintenance | None | | Finasteride | DHT blocker (oral) | Slowing male pattern baldness | None |
All three can be used together for a comprehensive hair loss strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PRP painful?
Most patients describe a mild discomfort rather than pain. Numbing cream can be applied beforehand.
How long do PRP results last?
Initial results last 6–12 months. Maintenance sessions are recommended to sustain growth.
Can PRP regrow hair on a bald scalp?
No. PRP stimulates existing follicles. Completely bald areas need a hair transplant.
Should I get PRP after my hair transplant?
It's optional but recommended. PRP can improve graft survival and accelerate healing.
Want to learn if PRP is right for you? Book a consultation to discuss PRP therapy alone or as a transplant add-on.
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