PRP for Hair Loss: Can Your Own Platelets Help Thinning Hair?

6 October 2026

PRP for Hair Loss: Can Your Own Platelets Help Thinning Hair?

Are you noticing more hair in your brush? Is your parting getting wider, your crown looking thinner or your hairline starting to change? Hair loss is common in both men and women, but that doesn't make it any easier when it's happening to you. One option you may have heard about is Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP. PRP is made from your own blood and injected into areas where your hair is thinning. It's been studied for several types of hair loss, with some of the best evidence so far being for male and female pattern hair loss. And the results are interesting. Recent studies have found that PRP can improve hair density in people with pattern hair loss. See the research →

So how does it work?

The Mystery of Hair Loss

First, we need to know why you're losing hair, because not all hair loss is the same.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is male or female pattern hair loss. In men, this often means a receding hairline or thinning crown. Women may notice their parting getting wider or the hair on top becoming thinner. Over time, the affected follicles become smaller and start producing finer, shorter hairs. This is the type of hair loss where we currently have some of the strongest evidence for PRP.

Alopecia areata is different. It's an autoimmune condition that often causes patches of hair loss.

Telogen effluvium tends to cause more general shedding and can happen when the normal hair cycle is disrupted. Read more →

Traction alopecia is caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair.

Scarring alopecia involves damage to the hair follicles and needs a different approach. This is why we don't believe PRP should simply be offered to everyone with hair loss.

Enter PRP: Your Own Platelets at Work

PRP starts with a small sample of your blood. We spin the blood in a centrifuge, which separates its different parts and allows us to prepare plasma with a higher concentration of platelets. The PRP is then injected into the areas of the scalp we want to target. Why platelets? Most people know that platelets help blood clot. But they also release proteins and growth factors that play a part in healing, cell signalling and blood vessel function. Researchers have been studying how these growth factors may affect the area around existing hair follicles. You'll sometimes hear this described as "waking up sleeping follicles". The real science isn't quite that simple. PRP doesn't create new hair follicles. What studies have shown is that it can improve things we can actually measure, including hair density.

So, Does PRP Work for Hair Loss?

A 2024 review brought together clinical trials comparing PRP with placebo in people with pattern hair loss. Overall, PRP improved hair density by around 27.6 hairs per cm² compared with placebo. Read the research → Another 2024 review found that six out of nine studies showed a significant improvement in hair density, while five found an improvement in hair count. Read the review → Then, in 2025, researchers looked at 43 clinical trials involving 1,877 people. Overall, they found that PRP improved hair density and reduced hair loss. Read the research → Not every study has produced the same result, and not everyone responds in the same way. But there is now good evidence supporting PRP for pattern hair loss.

Not All PRP Is the Same

This is something we've learned as PRP research has moved forward. Two treatments can both be called PRP but still be quite different. The amount of blood taken, how it's spun, how many platelets end up in the PRP, how much PRP is injected and how it's delivered can all vary. And these things may matter. Researchers are now looking more closely at platelet concentration and dose and how they may affect results. See the research → We don't yet know the perfect PRP formula. But we do know that simply calling something "PRP" doesn't mean every preparation is the same. This may be one reason why different studies over the years have produced different results.

What Results Can You Expect?

PRP isn't a magic cure. But research shows that it can improve hair density in some people with pattern hair loss. How much improvement you see will depend on the individual, and no one can promise you a particular result. That's why we don't promise a full head of hair or tell everyone with hair loss that they need PRP. We look at your hair, what's happening to it and whether PRP makes sense for you.

Is PRP Safe?

Yes however, all treatments have risk. Most side effects reported after scalp PRP are short-lived. These can include tenderness, redness, swelling or bruising. A large 2025 review of 43 clinical trials found that reported side effects were generally mild and temporary. Read the research → Serious problems have been reported, but they are uncommon in the published literature.

A 2026 review found 10 published cases of visual problems after PRP injections. Nine happened after injections to the face and one followed PRP to the scalp. Read the review → Case reports can't tell us how often something happens, so there isn't a reliable figure for this risk after scalp PRP. It does show why training, knowledge of anatomy and good injection technique matter.

We'll talk you through the risks and what to expect before you decide whether PRP is right for you.

Could PRP Be Right for You?

That's what the consultation is for. We'll talk about when your hair started changing, where you're losing density and what you'd like to achieve. If PRP looks like a suitable cosmetic option, we'll explain how it works, what the research shows, the costs, risks and what you can realistically expect. If we think your hair loss needs medical investigation instead, we'll tell you.

Because PRP isn't right for everyone. It's about using it for the right person, for the right type of hair loss.

The Real Secret Behind PRP

So what's the secret? It's not magic. PRP takes platelets from your own blood, concentrates them and puts them into the areas where your hair is thinning. For male and female pattern hair loss, we now have clinical studies showing improvements in hair density. We're also learning more about how the way PRP is prepared, its platelet concentration and the amount delivered may affect the results. There's still more to learn. But PRP has moved well beyond being simply an interesting idea. We now have good clinical evidence behind its use for pattern hair loss. If you're worried about thinning hair, book a consultation with The PRP Clinic to find out whether PRP could be right for you. PRP isn't right for everyone and results vary. Most of the stronger research is for male and female pattern hair loss, so these findings shouldn't automatically be applied to every type of hair loss. If we think there may be another reason for your hair loss, we may recommend medical assessment before considering cosmetic PRP.

Book a Free Consultation Here

Research Behind This Article

Kieling L, Konzen AT, Zanella RK, Valente DS. (2024). Is autologous platelet-rich plasma capable of increasing hair density in patients with androgenic alopecia? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
PubMed →

Donnelly C, Minty I, Dsouza A, et al. (2024). The role of platelet-rich plasma in androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review.
PubMed →

Anitua E, Tierno R, Alkhraisat MH. (2025). Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Management of Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Evidence.
PubMed →

Singh SK, Singh S. (2023). Effect of platelet counts and activator in platelet-rich plasma on the treatment of androgenetic alopecia.
PubMed →

Asghar, F., Shamim, N., Farooque, U., Sheikh, H. and Aqeel, R. (2020) Telogen Effluvium: A Review of the Literature
PubMed →

Ebrahimzade M, Nazari S, Pourani MR, et al. (2026). Ophthalmic Vascular Occlusion and Blindness After Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections: A Systematic Review.

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Guest post by Hawksley regn med

by Will Owen from Hawksley regen med • 7 August 2026

Understanding PRP with Hawksley Regen Med

Not all PRP is the same

15 July 2024

Why Some Clinics Offer Cheap PRP Treatments: Understanding the Differences If you've been exploring PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, you might have noticed that prices can vary significantly from one clinic to another. It's not just about finding a good deal—there are important reasons behind these price differences that you should understand to make an informed decision. Quality of PRP: Concentration, Purity, and Dose The effectiveness of PRP therapy depends heavily on three main factors: platelet concentration, purity, and the dose administered. High-quality PRP treatments require sophisticated equipment, precise protocols, and experienced practitioners to ensure the PRP has a high concentration of platelets, high purity, and the appropriate dose for the specific treatment. Here’s why these factors matter: Platelet Concentration : High concentration of platelets (ideally over 1 million/µL) ensures a rich supply of growth factors necessary for healing and regeneration. Lower concentrations may not be as effective and could even lead to disappointing results. Purity : High-purity PRP contains mostly platelets and very few red and white blood cells. This reduces the risk of inflammation and maximizes the therapeutic benefits of the treatment. Proper Dose : The right volume and concentration ensure that the target area receives enough platelets to stimulate healing. For example, hair restoration treatments usually require about 6 mL of PRP with a high platelet concentration. Cost-Cutting Measures: What to Watch For Clinics that offer significantly cheaper PRP treatments might be cutting costs in ways that compromise the quality and effectiveness of the therapy. Here are some common cost-cutting measures to be aware of: Lower Platelet Concentration : Cheaper treatments might use PRP with a lower platelet concentration, which reduces the number of growth factors and can result in less effective treatment. Inadequate Purity : High-quality PRP should be over 90% pure, meaning it has a high percentage of platelets compared to other blood cells. Some clinics might offer PRP with lower purity, which can lead to less effective and potentially inflammatory treatments. Reduced Dose : Providing a smaller volume of PRP or using a lower concentration can cut costs, but it also means the treatment might not be as effective. For example, using only a few milliliters of PRP when a higher volume is needed can reduce the treatment's success. Inferior Equipment : High-quality PRP requires sophisticated centrifuges and preparation techniques to ensure the best results. Cheaper clinics might use less advanced equipment, leading to inconsistent and lower-quality PRP. Less Experienced Practitioners : Experienced and well-trained practitioners are crucial for administering PRP effectively. Clinics offering cheaper treatments might employ less experienced staff, which can affect the quality and safety of the procedure. Why Choose The PRP Clinic? At The PRP Clinic in the UK, we prioritize quality and effectiveness in all our PRP treatments. Here’s what sets us apart: High Platelet Concentration : We ensure our PRP treatments have a high concentration of platelets, typically over 1 million/µL, to maximize the healing and regenerative effects. High Purity : Our PRP is over 90% pure, containing minimal red and white blood cells to reduce inflammation and improve treatment outcomes. Proper Dose : We provide the right volume and concentration of PRP tailored to each treatment, ensuring you receive the optimal dose for effective results. Advanced Equipment : We use state-of-the-art centrifuges and preparation techniques to produce consistent, high-quality PRP. Experienced Practitioners : Our team is highly trained and experienced in administering PRP therapy, ensuring you receive safe and effective treatment. Making an Informed Decision When considering PRP therapy, it’s important to look beyond the price tag. Ask potential providers about their PRP preparation methods, including the concentration and purity of their PRP, the volume used, and the equipment they use. Here are some questions you might ask: What is the platelet concentration of the PRP you use? How do you ensure the purity of the PRP? What volume of PRP will be used for my treatment? What equipment do you use to prepare the PRP? How experienced are your practitioners with PRP therapy? While cheaper PRP treatments might be tempting, they can come at the cost of quality and effectiveness. High-quality PRP therapy requires proper concentration, purity, and dosage, all of which contribute to better treatment outcomes. Make sure to do your research and choose a clinic like The PRP Clinic that prioritizes quality and has a track record of successful PRP treatments. Your health and the effectiveness of your treatment are worth the investment.

Study to evaluate the effectiveness of I-PRF on hair

26 May 2024

Summary of the Research on Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin (i-PRF) and Dermal Papilla Cells (DPCs) for Hair Follicle Regeneration Introduction : Alopecia, characterized by a shorter anagen phase and a prolonged telogen phase in the hair cycle, presents both psychological and social communication challenges. Dermal papilla cells (DPCs), specialized mesenchymal stem cells in hair follicles, have shown potential in treating alopecia due to their hair inductivity. Maintaining the hair-inducing ability of DPCs is crucial for effective alopecia therapy. Platelet Concentrates: PRP, the first generation of platelet concentrates, has shown efficacy in promoting hair regeneration by releasing growth factors such as PDGF, FGF, and VEGF. However, PRP's rapid degradation and need for exogenous activators limit its clinical application. PRF, the second generation, forms a fibrous gel but lacks ease of combination with other biomaterials. Injectable PRF (i-PRF), the third generation, combines the advantages of its predecessors, releasing growth factors stably and continuously, and is easily combined with various biomaterials. Study Objectives: The study aimed to explore the effects of i-PRF on the proliferation, migration, and hair-inducing ability of DPCs, comparing its efficacy with PRP. Methods : Human scalp skin and blood samples were obtained from patients and healthy volunteers. DPCs from mice and humans were isolated and cultured. i-PRF and PRP were prepared, and their effects on DPC proliferation, migration, and gene expression were assessed. The involvement of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway in i-PRF's effects was evaluated using a TGF-beta receptor I inhibitor, Galunisertib. Results : i-PRF significantly enhanced DPC viability, proliferation, and migration compared to PRP. Both i-PRF and PRP increased the expression of ALP, Versican, and β-catenin in DPCs, with i-PRF showing more pronounced effects. i-PRF activated the TGF-β/Smad pathway more effectively than PRP, as evidenced by increased expression of TGFBR1, TGFBR2, and higher p-SMAD2/3 to SMAD2/3 ratios. Galunisertib treatment rescued the effects of i-PRF on DPCs, indicating that i-PRF's effects are mediated through the TGF-β/Smad pathway. Conclusion : i-PRF, as a third-generation platelet concentrate, offers superior enhancement of DPC proliferative, migrative, and hair-inducing abilities compared to PRP, primarily through the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. This makes i-PRF a promising biocompatible material for hair restoration and tissue regeneration Full article here https://cellmolbiol.org/index.php/CMB/article/view/5462/3220

Using medication in the fight against hair loss

23 February 2024

Hey there! Have you ever found yourself staring at the mirror, feeling a bit down because of your thinning hair? Well, you're not alone. Hair loss, also known as alopecia, affects countless people worldwide, and it's totally normal to feel a bit disheartened by it. But hey, the good news is that there are ways to combat it, and medication happens to be one of the most powerful tools in our arsenal. Now, let's chat about one of the most common types of hair loss: androgenetic alopecia, or AGA for short. AGA is like the villain behind male and female pattern baldness, and it's all about genetics and hormones, particularly this little troublemaker called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT loves to bind to hair follicles and shrink them, leading to thinning and eventual hair loss. Not cool, right? But fear not, because medication is here to save the day! Let's break down some of the options: First up, we've got topical treatments, like minoxidil, also known as Rogaine. Think of minoxidil as your hair's best friend. It works by boosting blood flow to your scalp and giving those hair follicles a little wake-up call, encouraging them to grow new hair. Plus, you can grab it over-the-counter, making it super accessible and easy to use. Next on the list is finasteride, AKA Propecia, the superhero of oral medications. Finasteride swoops in and blocks the enzyme responsible for turning testosterone into DHT, effectively putting a stop to the hair loss process. While it's primarily prescribed for men, it's been known to work wonders for slowing down hair loss and even promoting regrowth. But wait, there's more! Other treatments, like corticosteroids and nutritional supplements, offer additional support in the battle against hair loss. Corticosteroids help calm down inflammation and immune responses, especially for conditions like alopecia areata. And those supplements? They're packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to give your hair the nutrients it needs to thrive. So, why is medication so important in the fight against hair loss? Well, for starters, it's like hitting the pause button on hair loss, giving your follicles a chance to catch their breath and regroup. Plus, it's all about promoting regrowth and helping you get back that full head of hair you've been missing. And the best part? It's non-invasive and convenient, meaning you can tackle hair loss without having to go under the knife. In the end, medication isn't just about treating your hair loss – it's about reclaiming your confidence and feeling like the best version of yourself. So, if you're feeling a bit down about your hair, remember that there are plenty of options out there to help you on your journey to fuller, healthier locks. With the right medication and a positive mindset, you'll be well on your way to rocking that fabulous head of hair in no time! Some of the types of medications and supplements are listed below- Minoxidil (Rogaine) Finasteride (Propecia) Dutasteride Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Corticosteroids Latanoprost Spironolactone Ketoconazole Tretinoin (Retin-A) Tacrolimus (Protopic) Saw Palmetto Biotin Melatonin Vitamin Supplements Hair loss, also known as alopecia, covers a range of conditions that affect our hair and scalp. Each type has its own causes and treatments, but understanding them can help find the best solutions for hair health. Below is a list of possible treatments for each hair loss condition. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness): Minoxidil (Rogaine) Finasteride (Propecia) Dutasteride Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Corticosteroids (for inflammation associated with follicular miniaturization) Ketoconazole (for scalp health and DHT reduction) Alopecia Areata: Corticosteroids (topical, injectable, or oral) Tacrolimus (Protopic) Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Telogen Effluvium: Addressing underlying causes (e.g., stress, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances) Minoxidil (Rogaine) Biotin (supplementation for hair health) Traction Alopecia: Discontinuation of tight hairstyles or hair treatments causing tension on the hair follicles Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Cicatricial Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia): Corticosteroids (topical, injectable, or oral) Tacrolimus (Protopic) Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Trichotillomania: Behavioral therapy and counseling to address underlying psychological factors Corticosteroids (topical, injectable, or oral) for inflammation if present Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Remember, finding the right hair loss treatment is about more than just regaining your hair – it's about reclaiming your confidence and feeling great about yourself. Whether it's through medication, lifestyle changes, or embracing your unique look, there's always hope and support available. You're not alone on this journey, and with patience and perseverance, you can achieve hair health and happiness. Keep shining bright, because you're beautiful just the way you are!

Unlocking Hair Regrowth with the Next Evolution of Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy

20 July 2023

Hair loss can be a distressing experience for both men and women, affecting self-confidence and well-being. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology have led to groundbreaking treatments that offer hope for those struggling with hair loss. The PRP Clinic in Leeds, a renowned specialist centre for PRP, has introduced Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), the next evolution of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, to provide even more effective and natural results for hair regrowth. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a cutting-edge treatment derived from the patient's own blood, just like traditional PRP therapy. However, PRF goes beyond PRP in terms of its concentration of growth factors and other regenerative elements. The PRF process involves a more advanced centrifugation technique, which results in a fibrin matrix that acts as a scaffold to support the growth factors and prolong their release, making it more potent and longer-lasting. At The PRP Clinic in Leeds , the journey towards natural hair regrowth starts with a comprehensive consultation with our skilled medical professionals. They will assess each patient's unique hair loss condition, medical history, and expectations to create a personalized treatment plan. Step 1: Aspiration and Centrifugation During the PRF procedure, a small sample of the patient's blood is carefully drawn, similar to a routine blood test. The blood is then subjected to a specialized centrifugation process that separates the platelets and fibrin from other blood components Step 2: Collection of PRF The centrifugation process yields Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), a concentrated blend of platelets, growth factors, and fibrin. The PRF is then collected and activated to unleash its regenerative potential. This activation step is crucial, as it ensures that the essential growth factors within the platelets, such as Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), and others, are readily available to stimulate hair regrowth. Step 3: PRF Injection With the PRF ready, the skilled medical professionals at The PRP Clinic will strategically inject it into specific points on the patient's scalp where hair regrowth is desired. The activated PRF starts working immediately, rejuvenating dormant hair follicles and promoting the growth of thicker, healthier hair. PRF vs. PRP: Why PRF is a Game-Changer While PRP has been highly effective in hair regrowth therapy, PRF takes the results to a whole new level. The fibrin matrix in PRF acts as a natural scaffold that slowly releases growth factors, providing a sustained effect over a more extended period. This results in improved hair follicle nourishment, enhanced blood flow, and longer-lasting outcomes. Patients who have experienced PRF hair growth therapy at The PRP Clinic report remarkable improvements and increased satisfaction with their results. Clinical Studies Supporting PRF Hair Growth Therapy: Numerous clinical trials have supported the efficacy of PRF in promoting hair growth and combating hair loss. Studies conducted by leading researchers and institutions have consistently demonstrated positive results with PRF, proving its effectiveness in stimulating hair regrowth. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5104307/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6580805/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9781119406792.ch13 https://ezprf.com/pdf/the-benefits-of-platelet-rich-fibrin.pdf The PRP Clinic in Leeds continues to lead the way in hair restoration treatments with the introduction of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF). With its more advanced and potent regenerative properties, PRF offers patients a superior option for hair regrowth compared to traditional PRP therapy. If you're seeking a 100% natural and effective solution for hair loss, The PRP Clinic's PRF hair growth therapy could be the key to unlocking a fuller, healthier head of hair and restoring your confidence. Book a consultation today and embark on your journey to reclaiming your crowning glory.