Hair Growth Treatments — PRP, Mesotherapy, and Beyond

Last updated: 5 March 2026

Hair loss affects approximately 40% of women and 85% of men by the age of 50, making it one of the most common aesthetic concerns across all demographics. Whilst surgical hair transplantation remains the gold standard for permanent hair restoration, non-surgical treatments have advanced significantly, offering effective options for slowing hair loss, improving hair density, and stimulating regrowth without surgery.

Our clinic offers a range of evidence-based hair restoration treatments, and our practitioners have specific training in trichology and scalp aesthetics. This guide explores the most effective non-surgical hair growth treatments available in the UK today.

Understanding Hair Loss

Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Hair Loss)

The most common form of hair loss, affecting both men and women. In men, it typically presents as a receding hairline and crown thinning (classified using the Norwood-Hamilton scale). In women, it usually manifests as diffuse thinning across the crown (classified using the Ludwig scale). It is driven by the action of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on genetically susceptible hair follicles.

Telogen Effluvium

A temporary, often diffuse hair shedding triggered by physiological stress, illness, nutritional deficiency, hormonal changes, or medication. Hair follicles prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase, resulting in noticeable shedding 2-3 months after the triggering event. It is usually self-limiting but can be distressing.

Alopecia Areata

An autoimmune condition causing patchy hair loss. The immune system attacks hair follicles, creating circular bald patches. Treatment approaches differ from other forms of hair loss and typically require dermatological management.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) for Hair Growth

PRP therapy has emerged as one of the most promising non-surgical treatments for hair loss, with a growing body of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy.

How PRP Works for Hair

A small blood sample is drawn from the patient and processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets — which are rich in growth factors. This concentrated plasma is then injected into the scalp at areas of thinning. The growth factors stimulate:

• Proliferation of dermal papilla cells (the cells responsible for hair growth signalling)
• Angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation, improving follicle nutrition)
• Extension of the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle
• Activation of dormant hair follicles

Treatment Protocol

• Initial course: 3-4 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart
• Maintenance: Single sessions every 4-6 months
• Results timeline: Initial improvement in hair quality and shedding reduction within 2-3 months; visible density improvement from 6 months

Evidence

Multiple randomised controlled trials have demonstrated that PRP increases hair density, thickness, and the proportion of hairs in the active growth phase compared to placebo. A 2019 meta-analysis in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that PRP is an effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia.

Scalp Mesotherapy

Scalp mesotherapy involves the injection of a customised cocktail of active ingredients directly into the scalp to nourish hair follicles and stimulate growth.

Common Mesotherapy Ingredients for Hair

• Biotin (vitamin B7): Essential for keratin production
• Dexpanthenol (vitamin B5): Supports hair shaft strength and flexibility
• Zinc: Essential mineral for hair follicle function
• Copper peptides: Stimulate follicle activity and improve scalp circulation
• Hyaluronic acid: Hydrates the scalp and creates an optimal environment for growth
• Amino acids: Building blocks of keratin protein
• Minoxidil: May be included in some mesotherapy formulations for enhanced vasodilation

Treatment Protocol

• Initial course: 6-10 sessions, spaced 1-2 weeks apart
• Maintenance: Monthly sessions, reducing to bi-monthly or quarterly
• Results timeline: Reduced shedding from 4-6 weeks; visible improvement from 3-4 months

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT uses specific wavelengths of red light (typically 650-670nm) to stimulate cellular energy production in hair follicles. FDA-cleared LLLT devices are available both for clinical use and as at-home devices (laser caps, combs, and helmets).

How LLLT Works

The light energy is absorbed by chromophores in the hair follicle cells, stimulating mitochondrial function and increasing ATP (cellular energy) production. This energises weakened follicles, extending the growth phase and improving hair diameter.

Evidence

Several randomised controlled trials have demonstrated that LLLT increases hair count and hair density in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia. It is most effective as an adjunct to other treatments rather than as a standalone therapy.

Medical Treatments

Minoxidil

Available over the counter as a topical solution (2% or 5%) or foam. Minoxidil is a vasodilator that increases blood flow to hair follicles, prolonging the anagen phase and promoting hair thickening. It is effective for both male and female pattern hair loss but must be used continuously — hair loss resumes if treatment is stopped.

Finasteride (Prescription Only)

An oral medication that inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, reducing DHT levels. Highly effective for male pattern hair loss but associated with potential side effects including decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Not licensed for use in women of childbearing age.

Spironolactone (Off-Label, Women Only)

An anti-androgen medication sometimes prescribed off-label for female pattern hair loss. It reduces the effect of androgens on hair follicles. Requires medical monitoring.

Combination Approaches

The most effective hair restoration strategies combine multiple modalities:

• PRP + mesotherapy: Growth factors from PRP combined with nutritional support from mesotherapy cocktails
• PRP + minoxidil: PRP enhances follicle health whilst minoxidil maintains vasodilation
• LLLT + topical treatments: Light therapy enhances penetration and efficacy of topical agents
• Medical treatment + professional procedures: Oral or topical medications as a baseline, supplemented with periodic PRP or mesotherapy sessions

“Hair loss treatment is most effective when started early. Once a hair follicle has been dormant for an extended period, it becomes increasingly difficult to reactivate. We encourage patients who notice early thinning to seek assessment promptly rather than waiting until the loss becomes more advanced.”

When to Consider Surgical Options

Non-surgical treatments work best for early to moderate hair loss. Surgical hair transplantation (FUE or FUT) may be more appropriate for patients with advanced hair loss, stable hair loss patterns, sufficient donor hair, and realistic expectations about surgical outcomes. Non-surgical treatments are excellent complements to surgical transplantation, helping to maintain existing hair and optimise transplanted follicle survival.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Before beginning any hair loss treatment, a thorough assessment is essential, including detailed medical history and family history, scalp examination and trichoscopy, blood tests to rule out underlying causes such as thyroid dysfunction, iron deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, and hormonal imbalances, and classification of hair loss type and severity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Non-surgical hair growth treatments have advanced significantly and now offer genuine, evidence-based solutions for hair thinning and loss. Early intervention, accurate diagnosis, and a tailored combination approach produce the best outcomes. If you are concerned about hair loss, seeking professional assessment sooner rather than later gives you the best chance of maintaining and restoring your hair.

To discuss your hair concerns and explore treatment options, book a consultation with our team.