FUE Hair Transplant
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy for hair loss uses your own blood's growth factors to stimulate...
PRP Hair Restoration
Overview
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for hair uses the patient’s own blood, centrifuged to concentrate platelets, which is then injected into the scalp. The intention is that growth factors released by platelets stimulate activity in existing follicles.
What is involved
- Course: commonly three to four sessions spaced about a month apart, followed by maintenance every three to six months.
- Treatment time: around 45 to 60 minutes including blood draw and processing.
- Discomfort: scalp injections are uncomfortable; cooling or topical anaesthetic is often used.
What the evidence supports
PRP is best understood as a treatment that may improve the density and calibre of hair that is still present, particularly in early or moderate pattern loss. It does not regrow hair in areas that are already completely bald, because it acts on existing follicles rather than creating new ones. Published studies are generally small and vary considerably in preparation protocol, injection technique and how outcomes are measured, which makes results difficult to compare and means quoted response figures should be treated with caution.
Benefit requires ongoing maintenance. Stopping treatment generally means losing the gains over subsequent months.
Risks and limitations
Because the material is autologous, allergic reaction is not a concern. Risks include pain during injection, temporary scalp tenderness, swelling of the forehead, bruising, headache and, uncommonly, infection. Sterile technique and correct handling of blood are essential.
PRP is generally avoided in people with platelet disorders, active scalp infection, or on anticoagulation depending on circumstances. Anyone with hair loss that is sudden, patchy, scarring or accompanied by other symptoms should have the cause investigated before cosmetic treatment.
Information on this page reflects NHS and UK specialist association patient guidance. It is general information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for an individual assessment by a qualified clinician.
How It Works
1
Blood Draw
A small blood sample (20-60ml) is taken from your arm, similar to a routine blood test.
2
PRP Preparation
Your blood is placed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelet-rich plasma containing growth factors.
3
Scalp Injection
The PRP is injected into the scalp at areas of thinning using fine needles. Topical anaesthetic is applied for comfort.
4
Treatment Course
A series of 3-4 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart is recommended, followed by maintenance sessions every 6-12 months.
Benefits
- Uses your own blood, no synthetic products
- Stimulates natural hair growth
- No downtime or recovery period
- Can be combined with hair transplant
- Improves hair thickness and quality
Recovery Timeline
D1
Day 1: Immediately After
Mild redness and swelling at the treatment area is normal. Apply cool compresses as advised by your practitioner. Avoid touching the treated area.
D3
Days 2-3: Initial Healing
Swelling begins to subside. You may experience mild bruising which can be concealed with makeup. Resume normal daily activities with care.
W1
Week 1: Visible Improvement
Initial results become visible. Any bruising should have resolved. Follow-up check with your practitioner to assess progress and address any concerns.
W4
Week 4: Full Results
Treatment has fully settled with optimal results now visible. Final review appointment to evaluate outcome and discuss maintenance programme.
Is This Treatment Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
- Adults aged 18+ in good general health
- Realistic expectations about treatment outcomes
- Non-smokers or willing to stop before treatment
- Committed to following aftercare instructions
Important Considerations
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active skin infections or conditions
- Blood thinning medications
- Autoimmune conditions (discuss with practitioner)
Patient Experience
The whole experience from consultation to aftercare was exceptional. The team made me feel completely at ease and the results exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend Axiom Aesthetics to anyone considering this treatment.