PRP hair treatment

Before deciding on PRP treatment, the cause of hair loss is determined. A doctor examines the scalp and hair using a trichoscope, a device that magnifies the follicles and hair shafts. If necessary, they also request blood tests, for example iron, thyroid function and hormone levels.

If the cause is an iron deficiency or a thyroid disorder, that is treated first. Read more about the examination on our page about trichoscopy.

Hair loss is a natural process and losing a certain number of hairs every day is considered normal. The problem arises when hair loss becomes more intense or when visible thinning is noticed.

The most common cause in men and women is androgenetic alopecia, meaning increased sensitivity of the follicles to hormones. The hair then gradually becomes thinner, shorter and weaker, especially in the frontal and temporal areas. The causes of hair loss can also be stress, hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiencies or certain systemic diseases, which is why an expert assessment is necessary before treatment.

PRP hair treatment is intended for people with early and moderate stages of hair thinning, whose follicles are still preserved. The therapy is used for diffuse hair loss, early androgenetic alopecia, and weakened, thinner hair strands. It is also used for increased hair loss after stress, illness, or hormonal changes (telogen effluvium), while in cases of alopecia areata, the decision to use it is made by a dermatologist after an examination.

It can also be used as a supplementary procedure following hair transplantation, with the aim of supporting regeneration and preserving the transplanted hairs. In advanced stages of hair loss, when the follicles are permanently atrophied, PRP has no significant effect.

PRP treatment begins with a consultation and examination, during which we assess the condition of the scalp and the degree of hair thinning. Based on this, a treatment plan and an approximate number of sessions are defined.

Next, a small amount of blood is taken, as for a routine blood test. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to isolate platelet-rich plasma, which is then injected via micro-injections into the areas where the hair is weakened or thinning.

The procedure itself takes about 30 to 40 minutes. After the treatment, mild sensitivity or redness of the scalp may occur, which subsides shortly.

The number of treatments depends on the cause of hair loss and the condition of the follicles. The initial series is usually three to four treatments, once a month.

Maintenance sessions then follow every three to six months, depending on how the hair responds.

Every hair goes through a growth phase, which lasts for several years, and a resting phase of about three to four months, after which it falls out. In healthy hair, about 85% of hairs are in the growth phase.

PRP works by prolonging the growth phase and strengthening weakened follicles. That is why change takes time:

• After 1 to 3 months: hair loss usually decreases.
• After 3 to 6 months: hair looks thicker and stronger.
• After 6 to 12 months: the doctor assesses the overall effect, comparing photographs and trichoscopy findings.

• Hair loss phase: PRP works on preserved follicles, so the effect is better when started early.
• Cause of hair loss: the most data exists for androgenetic alopecia.
• Plasma quality: platelet concentration and the method of extraction are important.
• Technique: plasma is evenly injected into the scalp skin, at the depth where the follicles are located.
• Regularity: initial series and maintenance. Without maintenance, the effect gradually fades.
• Combination with therapy: in hormone-related hair loss, PRP does not replace the therapy prescribed by a dermatologist, but complements it.

PRP is also used alongside hair transplantation: during the procedure or in the months following it. In a randomised study, transplanted hairs in patients treated with PRP grew faster and shed less than in patients without PRP. The study was small, so these data are considered promising.

The timing and number of treatments after the transplant are agreed with your doctor, in line with the surgeon's instructions.

Before treatment:

• A few days beforehand, tell your doctor which medicines and supplements you are taking, especially those that affect blood clotting. Do not stop your treatment without consulting your doctor.
• Do not drink alcohol the day before.
• On the day of the treatment, have breakfast and drink enough water, as blood will be taken.
• Arrive with clean hair, free of gel, hairspray and other products.

After treatment:

• Do not wash your hair for 24 hours.
• Postpone colouring and chemical treatments for a few days, until the scalp settles down.
• For the first two days, avoid the sauna, swimming pool, intense workouts, and direct sunlight on your scalp.
• Do not rub or massage your scalp on the first day.
• Resume your at-home hair treatment as instructed by your doctor, usually after a few days.

We recommend planning your injectable treatment at least two weeks before an important event. If a series of treatments is required, the plan should start earlier to allow enough time for the full effect to develop.