PRP therapy improves hair density by 30 to 40% in androgenetic alopecia patients, according to multiple controlled clinical studies. Platelet-rich plasma harnesses the growth factors in your own blood to stimulate dormant follicles, increase hair shaft diameter, and extend the growth phase of the hair cycle. It sits between medication and surgery as a middle-ground option for men seeking more than pills but not yet ready for a transplant.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
How PRP Works for Hair Loss
PRP therapy involves three steps: drawing a small amount of blood (typically 20 to 60ml), processing it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the concentrated solution directly into the scalp in areas of thinning.
The Science Behind PRP
Platelets contain growth factors including PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), EGF (epidermal growth factor), and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1). When injected into the scalp, these growth factors stimulate several processes relevant to hair regrowth.
They promote angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), which improves nutrient delivery to follicles. They activate dermal papilla cells, which are the command center of the hair follicle. They extend the anagen (growth) phase, allowing hairs to grow longer and thicker before entering the resting phase. They may also reduce inflammation around miniaturizing follicles.
What PRP Does Not Do
PRP does not block DHT. The hormonal cause of androgenetic alopecia continues unchecked unless the patient is also taking finasteride or dutasteride. This is why PRP works best as part of a combination approach rather than as a standalone treatment.
PRP also cannot revive follicles that have been fully dormant for years. It is most effective on follicles that are miniaturized but still cycling.
Clinical Evidence
Key Studies
Multiple randomized controlled trials support PRP for androgenetic alopecia. A 2019 meta-analysis in Dermatologic Surgery pooling data from 11 trials found statistically significant improvements in hair density and hair diameter in PRP-treated areas compared to placebo.
Typical findings across studies include hair density increases of 30 to 40% over baseline, hair shaft diameter increases of 20 to 30%, improved patient satisfaction scores, and effects that are maintained with regular follow-up sessions.
Limitations of the Evidence
Study quality varies. PRP preparation methods are not standardized across clinics, meaning the concentration of platelets and growth factors can differ significantly. Some studies use single-spin centrifugation while others use double-spin methods, and the resulting platelet concentrations range from 2x to 8x above baseline blood levels.
This lack of standardization makes it difficult to compare results across studies and clinics. Patients should ask their provider about the specific centrifuge system and platelet concentration achieved.
Treatment Protocol
Initial Series
The standard starting protocol involves 3 to 4 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Each session takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes including the blood draw, processing, and injection phases.
The injection technique matters. Most providers use a grid pattern across the treatment area, delivering 0.05 to 0.1ml per injection site at approximately 1cm intervals. Some providers use a nappage technique (multiple shallow injections) while others prefer deeper mesotherapy-style delivery.
Maintenance Schedule
After the initial series, results begin to fade within 6 to 12 months without maintenance. Most protocols recommend a single maintenance session every 6 to 12 months to sustain the improvements. Some providers transition patients to annual sessions if the response is strong.
Expected Timeline
Patients typically notice reduced shedding within 2 to 4 weeks of the first session. Visible improvements in density and thickness appear after the second or third session, usually at the 2 to 3 month mark. Full results from the initial series are apparent at 6 months.
Cost Breakdown
PRP is an out-of-pocket expense for almost all patients. Insurance rarely covers it when performed for androgenetic alopecia.
Typical Pricing
| Component | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Single PRP session | $500 to $1,500 |
| Initial series (3 to 4 sessions) | $1,500 to $6,000 |
| Annual maintenance (1 to 2 sessions) | $500 to $3,000 |
| First-year total | $2,000 to $9,000 |
Pricing varies by geographic region, provider experience, and the specific PRP preparation system used. Some clinics offer package discounts for the initial series.
Who Is the Ideal PRP Candidate?
PRP produces the best results for men with early to moderate androgenetic alopecia. Specifically, it works well for patients at Norwood 2 to 4 with visible thinning but not complete baldness in the treatment area. Patients who are already on finasteride and minoxidil but want additional improvement are strong candidates. Men who want a non-surgical option while deciding about transplant surgery also benefit.
PRP is less effective for advanced hair loss (Norwood 5 and above) where most follicles in the affected area are fully dormant.
Combining PRP With Other Treatments
The most effective use of PRP is as part of a multi-treatment protocol. Finasteride addresses the hormonal cause, minoxidil stimulates growth directly, and PRP provides additional growth factor stimulation. Some patients add PRP sessions before and after hair transplant surgery to improve graft survival and stimulate native hair in the surrounding area.
Side Effects and Risks
PRP has a strong safety profile because it uses the patient's own blood, eliminating allergy or rejection risks. Common side effects include temporary scalp soreness at injection sites, mild swelling that resolves in 24 to 48 hours, and occasional bruising.
Serious complications are extremely rare. Infection risk is minimal with proper sterile technique. There is no systemic side effect risk comparable to oral medications.
Evaluate whether PRP is right for your stage of hair loss with a free AI assessment at myhairline.ai/analyze.