What is a PRP treatment for hair thinning?

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. A concentrate of platelets is prepared from a small amount of your own blood, which is then introduced into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that play a role in the body’s repair processes and tissue blood flow.

No foreign substances are introduced. The treatment is intended for hair thinning where the follicles are still present and active, and it is applied to both men and women.

How does it work?

Around each hair follicle is a network of cells and blood vessels that supports the hair’s growth cycle. The growth factors from the platelet concentrate bind to these cells, supporting cell division and blood flow while inhibiting programmed cell death.

The goal is not to create new follicles, as that is not possible, but to improve the conditions around existing follicles so that a weakened follicle can once again produce stronger hair and remain in the growth phase longer. Because this is a biological process, the change occurs slowly and repetition is necessary.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

• Androgenetic hair thinning in men, in an early to moderate stage
• Androgenetic hair thinning in women, often characterized by a widening of the part
• Alopecia areata, following medical evaluation
• General thinning of the hair where fine hairs are still present

A prerequisite is that active follicles must still be present. During the consultation, it is also determined whether the hair loss is related to thyroid problems, iron deficiency, medication, or a period of intense stress.

What happens during a session?

First, a small amount of blood is drawn, similar to a standard blood test. This blood is processed in the clinic into a platelet concentrate.

The scalp is not anesthetized but is pre-softened with warm, moist towels, which noticeably reduces sensitivity. The concentrate is then distributed as small micro-depots across the affected areas, either manually or using an auto-injector. In certain cases, this is combined with microneedling of the scalp.

The injections are experienced as short and sharp, especially at the hairline. Afterwards, the scalp remains sensitive and slightly red for a few hours.

Number of sessions and results

The classic schedule consists of monthly sessions for approximately six to ten months, followed by maintenance sessions.

An initial change is often noticed after about a month: less hair loss when washing or combing. Visible thickening follows later, as the hair cycle progresses slowly. The result varies greatly from person to person; there is an obligation of means and not an obligation of results.

What this treatment does not do

• Hair will not grow on areas that are completely bald; missing follicles do not return.
• The treatment does not permanently stop the underlying cause of androgenetic hair thinning.
• It is not a substitute for a hair transplant when there is a genuine lack of follicles.
• It does not work immediately; patience over several months is required.
• Without maintenance, the achieved effect gradually disappears.

Safety and contraindications

Because your own blood is used, the risk of an allergic reaction is very small. However, the treatment is not performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or in cases of coagulation disorders, certain anticoagulant medications, autoimmune diseases, active inflammation or infection of the scalp, or active cancer.

Aftercare

• Do not wash the hair for the first twenty-four hours.
• Do not use styling or hair products containing alcohol during that period.
• Avoid intensive exercise, saunas, and steam baths for forty-eight hours.
• Avoid direct sunlight on the scalp and wear a head covering if necessary.
• Do not swim in chlorinated water for two days.

Combination with surgery and other treatments

The treatment can be combined with medicinal treatment for hair thinning. Both approaches work through different mechanisms and are not mutually exclusive; the use of medication is coordinated with the prescribing physician. Microneedling of the scalp and customized mesotherapy mixtures can also be part of the same treatment plan.

Frequently asked questions

Is the treatment painful?

The scalp is not anesthetized but is pre-softened with warm moist towels, which clearly reduces sensitivity. The injections are experienced as short and sharp, especially at the hairline.

When will I notice the first difference?

It is often noticed after about a month that fewer hairs fall out when washing or combing. Visible thickening follows later, as the hair cycle progresses slowly.

Does this work on a completely bald area?

No. The treatment supports follicles that are still active; where follicles are no longer present, no effect can be expected.

How many sessions are needed?

Treatment is typically administered monthly for approximately six to ten months, followed by maintenance. The exact schedule depends on the cause, severity, and response to the initial sessions.

Do I need to keep coming back?

Without maintenance, the underlying process of hair thinning resumes and the achieved effect gradually diminishes. A maintenance schedule is agreed upon individually.

Can I combine this with medication for hair loss?

Yes, that combination is possible and common, as both work through different mechanisms. Always report which products you are using during the consultation.

Read also

• Treating hair loss