What is PRP for hair loss

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical approach to treating hair loss that uses the body’s own natural healing components. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of your blood, separating the platelet-rich portion, and injecting it into areas of the scalp experiencing thinning hair.

This innovative treatment has been shown to be especially effective for people facing hair loss due to aging, stress, or medical conditions such as alopecia areata—a disorder that causes hair to fall out unpredictably, even in otherwise healthy individuals.

One of the reasons PRP has gained popularity is its minimal invasiveness. Unlike traditional hair transplant surgery, PRP doesn’t require incisions or a long recovery period. Many physicians recommend it as a safer, less intensive alternative that can help boost follicle activity, slow down the hair-shedding process, and in some cases, even stimulate new hair growth.

The science behind PRP lies in its high concentration of growth factors—proteins found in your blood’s platelets that play a key role in healing and tissue repair. Plasma, the fluid component of blood, serves as the vehicle that carries these platelets, along with red and white blood cells.

By isolating and concentrating the platelet-rich portion of your blood, doctors create a powerful serum. When injected into the scalp, this serum may increase blood circulation around the follicles, reactivate dormant follicles, and prolong the active growth phase of existing hair strands.

PRP therapy can lead to an increase in both the number and thickness of hair follicles. While results can vary between individuals, many patients report noticeable improvement in hair density and strength over time.

Originally developed in Europe over a decade ago, PRP treatments are now widely used not only for hair restoration but also for promoting joint healing and skin rejuvenation—proving just how versatile the body’s own biology can be when used in the right way.

How much does PRP for hair loss cost

The cost of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatment for hair loss varies significantly depending on where it’s performed and the clinic’s pricing structure. In the United States, patients typically pay between $500 USD and $2,500 USD per session, with full treatment plans—including multiple initial and maintenance sessions—ranging from $1,500 USD to $9,000 USD or more. In contrast, Australian clinics generally charge between $250 AUD and $800 AUD per session and may offer bundled packages to reduce overall costs. For those seeking more affordable options, medical tourism destinations such as Mexico and Turkey provide competitive pricing. In Mexico, PRP sessions are commonly priced between $120 USD and $350 USD, while in Turkey, the cost can range from $76 USD to $300 USD per session. Ultimately, factors like clinic reputation, practitioner expertise, and whether PRP is combined with other therapies can all influence the final cost.

How to prepare for PRP for hair loss

To ensure the best possible outcome from your PRP hair restoration treatment, proper preparation in the days leading up to your appointment is key. About a week before your session, you’ll need to stop taking any supplements or medications that thin the blood—such as vitamin E, vitamin A, Ginkgo, garlic, flaxseed, cod liver oil, essential fatty acids, and some multivitamins—while continuing with iron and vitamin D as needed. Anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and Voltaren should also be avoided, since a mild inflammatory response is essential for PRP’s regenerative effect. However, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe for managing discomfort. If you’re on prescription blood thinners (like Plavix, Coumadin, or Heparin) or broad beta-blockers like Inderal (Propranolol), it’s crucial to notify your provider in advance. You should also steer clear of excessive heat or sun exposure. Starting three days before treatment, it's advisable to cut back on alcohol and, if possible, reduce or stop smoking, as it can hinder the healing process. That said, you can continue using other hair loss therapies—like laser treatment, minoxidil, or hormone-blocking medications—unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider. Proper prep sets the stage for healthy results.

How is PRP for hair loss performed

During a typical PRP hair restoration session, the process begins with a thorough consultation. Your doctor will ask questions about the root cause of your hair loss, examine your scalp, and may request blood tests to rule out vitamin deficiencies or thyroid issues. Once that’s complete, they’ll outline what to expect from the treatment, including potential side effects and any post-care instructions—like when you can safely resume washing your hair or exercising.

The procedure starts with a routine blood draw, usually from your arm, after which your blood is processed in a centrifuge for around ten minutes to isolate and concentrate the platelets. Before administering the injections, your provider may numb the treatment area using either a chilling device or local anesthesia to keep the experience as comfortable as possible. Some doctors even use distraction techniques or rapid injection methods to minimize discomfort.

After cleansing your scalp with alcohol, the doctor will inject the PRP into targeted areas affected by hair thinning. Although the injections take just minutes, the entire appointment can last up to an hour—and most patients are free to return to their daily routine immediately afterward.

What are the risks and side effects of PRP for hair loss

PRP injections are generally considered a safe and low-risk option for treating hair loss, with clinical research supporting their effectiveness. In fact, a 2015 study concluded that PRP therapy offers therapeutic benefits for androgenetic alopecia—commonly known as male pattern baldness—without significant adverse effects. While side effects are typically mild and temporary, patients may experience some discomfort such as slight pain or redness at the injection site, pinpoint bleeding, minor swelling, or a headache lasting for about a day. On very rare occasions, more serious complications can occur. Medical literature has documented isolated incidents of vascular occlusion—when a blood vessel becomes blocked—resulting in outcomes like vision impairment or stroke. To reduce the likelihood of such events, it’s essential to choose a skilled, board-certified provider and have a thorough discussion about potential risks before undergoing any cosmetic injection. Proper training and technique make all the difference in ensuring both safety and results.

How effective is PRP for hair loss

While the results of PRP hair restoration therapy have generally been encouraging for both men and women, much of the existing research is still based on relatively small studies—so broader investigation is needed. One notable 2016 study published in Dermatologic Surgery observed the effects of PRP injections by treating only half the scalp in each of the 25 participants, using a placebo on the other side. After three sessions spaced a month apart, the PRP-treated side showed modest improvements in both hair count and thickness. Earlier research from 2015 also reported gains in hair density, strand strength, and follicle vitality. More recently, a 2022 review of clinical trials examining PRP for alopecia areata—a condition that causes patchy hair loss—suggested that it’s a promising steroid-free therapeutic option.

Despite this, PRP results are far from one-size-fits-all. A variety of personal factors such as your age, sex, hormone levels, genetic predisposition, and the underlying cause of your hair loss all influence how effective the treatment may be. As Dr. Berman points out, PRP isn’t suitable for everyone—especially if there are large bald patches with no remaining hair to stimulate. He advises patients to wait at least four months before deciding whether PRP has made a meaningful difference; beyond that point, if no improvement is seen, continued treatment may not be worthwhile.

Lifestyle habits can also impact your results. Eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and avoiding nicotine products can improve circulation and support hair regrowth. To sustain any benefits, ongoing maintenance sessions are usually required. Treatment typically begins with injections every four to six weeks, followed by less frequent appointments every three to four months over the next couple of years. While PRP offers a non-surgical solution, the cumulative cost of regular treatments can eventually surpass that of a hair transplant, which generally offers more definitive results.

Treatment plan using PRP for hair loss

If you're wanting to try this PRP for hair loss, a structured treatment plan is essential for achieving and maintaining results. Most patients begin with a series of three to four sessions, spaced approximately four to six weeks apart. This initial phase is designed to provide consistent stimulation to the hair follicles, jumpstarting the regrowth process. Once the foundational treatments are complete, ongoing maintenance sessions are typically recommended every four to six months to help preserve progress and prevent regression. However, the exact number of treatments and the frequency of follow-ups can vary significantly from person to person. Factors such as the extent and cause of hair loss, overall health, and how well someone responds to PRP will all play a role in shaping the ideal treatment schedule. A personalized approach—guided by a qualified practitioner—is key to long-term success.