Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is increasingly being offered alongside hair transplant procedures. The theory is appealing: your own growth factors, derived from a centrifuged sample of your blood, are injected into the scalp to stimulate healing and improve graft survival. But does the evidence support it?
What Is PRP?
PRP is produced by drawing a small amount of blood, centrifuging it to separate the platelet-rich plasma, and injecting this concentrate back into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors including PDGF, VEGF, and EGF that play roles in tissue repair and cell proliferation.
The Evidence for PRP with Hair Transplant
Several clinical studies have shown that PRP applied during or immediately after FUE transplantation may:
- Improve early graft survival by enhancing blood supply to the recipient area
- Reduce shedding duration
- Accelerate the onset of new growth by 4–6 weeks
- Improve overall density at 6 and 12 months
However, the evidence base is still growing, and study quality varies. PRP is not a substitute for excellent surgical technique.
PRP as Standalone Treatment for Hair Loss
Outside the transplant context, PRP is used as a maintenance treatment for early hair loss. Multiple sessions over 3–6 months may slow progression and improve density in miniaturising hair. Results are variable and not permanent — maintenance sessions are required.
Is It Worth It?
For patients undergoing FUE transplantation, a single PRP session on the day of procedure is a low-risk, potentially beneficial addition. The cost is modest relative to the overall procedure. As a standalone treatment for advanced hair loss, PRP alone will not replace lost hair — but may form part of a comprehensive management plan.
Ask Dr Anzal Qurbain whether PRP is right for your case →
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