Top PRP Hair Treatment Benefits You’ll Notice Within Months

Is PRP hair treatment worth your money? To decide whether Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy is right for you, you must understand the benefits and costs associated with it.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a minimally invasive hair restoration method for treating different hair loss conditions. It improves hair and scalp health due to the therapeutic properties of human blood. Although PRP treatment for hair is effective, its cost is determined by various factors.

In this article, we’ll explain the complete PRP process, how it works for hair growth, and the benefits and risks of PRP treatment. We’ll also reveal the factors that determine the PRP treatment for hair and compare it to other hair growth therapies.

What is PRP Hair Treatment?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical technique that has long been used to heal injuries to muscles, tendons and ligaments, to treat osteoarthritis and to improve skin health. 

PRP is also a highly effective treatment for hair loss treatment because it completely depends on the natural healing powers of the body. The process involves collecting a blood sample from the patient, processing it, and injecting it into the scalp region affected by hair loss. 

This improves blood flow to hair follicles and enhances hair thickness.

What Are The PRP Hair Treatment Benefits?

PRP hair treatment has proven effective in improving new hair growth and reducing hair shedding for many patients. Moreover, it also showed positive results for some patients, suffering from stress-related hair loss. Some of its benefits are:

Hair Strengthening

PRP along with other surgical methods, reduces hair shedding and results in thicker-looking hair. The total number of hair increases along with the increase in hair-shaft diameter. 

Increased Hair density

PRP and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) procedures both stimulate latent hair follicles. They have either become weak or less pigmented. Therefore, regular PRP sessions can overcome this issue. 

Growth factors are released that activate the dormant hair follicles. This will increase hair count and thickness. 

Safe & Effective

PRP treatment is a safe and well accepted option for people experiencing hair loss. The procedure uses the patient’s own blood, reducing the risks of adverse effects. For this reason, it is a suitable choice for a wide range of individuals. 

Boosted Confidence

For many, hair loss becomes a major reason for low self-esteem and body image. One of the key benefits of PRP hair treatment is enhancing confidence. By restoring hair growth, it helps individuals feel comfortable and more confident in their own skin.

Non-surgical Solution

PRP treatment for hair is a non-surgical and less invasive procedure unlike other hair transplant methods. It causes minimal discomfort, making it an appealing option for busy individuals who don’t want surgery. 

Improved Scalp Health

PRP not just helps in hair growth but also improves scalp health. It boosts collagen production and increases the blood supply to the hair follicles. In this way, a healthier and more nourished scalp is created. 

Quick Results 

The healing process of PRP therapy is fast. As an outpatient treatment, it is completed quickly in about an hour, and the patient does not need to stay overnight. It becomes convenient for the patient to book an appointment easily and can leave the clinic after the treatment. 

No Scar Marks 

The PRP treatment does not leave scar marks, as it only involves needles. Thus, the scalp is free of both incisions and scars. Therefore, the cosmetic results of PRP are widely approved by patients.

Treat Other Conditions

PRP not only works for hair loss but is also effective for other medical conditions. It plays a role in treating sports conditions like neck and back pain, cartilage injuries, tendon injuries, and tennis elbow. 

Natural Looking Results 

PRP resolves the underlying cause of the problem. To promote hair growth, it activates the hair follicles. Since the patient’s own platelets are used, it provides patients with peace of mind and comfort with the results. 

Good Care With Customized Support

PRP is a customized procedure that depends on the patient’s severity of hair loss. However, it can treat a variety of hair loss conditions.

Does PRP Work for Hair Growth?

PRP treatment is a successful method for hair growth, with positive reviews from patients receiving this treatment. Taking PRP treatment for hair is a long-term commitment, because damaged hair cells and follicles take time to repair and revitalize new hair growth. 

The blood-based therapy slows down hair fall at first and then stimulates hair follicles to give a fuller, thicker hair for at least three months. Overall, the plasma hair treatment has proven results in:

• Improving root strength and thickness.
• Increasing the number of hair follicles.
• Reducing loss of hair.
• Reactivating hair growth.
• Improved hair texture and luster.

How Does PRP Treatment Work for Hair Loss?

Our blood consists of red cells, white cells, platelets and plasma, which is the liquid component. Platelets have the power to form blood clots, repair tissues and promote cell reproduction and growth. 

In PRP treatment, blood enriched with growth factors is injected into the affected site, which promotes hair growth. The most common growth factor is Platelet-derived growth factor. 

The higher the concentration of platelets in PRP, the greater the effect on hair treatment. It increases hair follicle diameter and as a result, overall hair volume.

PRP also contains five other growth factors and substances, such as immunomodulators and blood coagulation factors. These growth factors prolong the anagen duration, the growth phase of hair cycle. In this way, they increase the hair shaft thickness. The names of these growth factors include:

• TGF: Transforming Growth Factor
• EGF: Epidermal Growth Factor
• VEGF: Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
• FGF: Fibroblast Growth Factor
• IGF: Insulin Growth Factor

What Are The Steps For PRP Hair Treatment?

The PRP hair treatment process involves three steps:

1. Blood collection: About 10-60 mL of blood is drawn from your arm.
2. Centrifugation: The collected blood is centrifuged for 10-15 minutes to separate it into layers of red blood cells and PRP. The PRP is then further spun to improve its platelet concentration.
3. PRP Injection: This platelet-rich layer of blood is then filled in a syringe which is injected deep in the scalp to stimulate dermal papilla cells in hair follicles. These cells regulate the hair growth cycle and improve hair regrowth.

PRP Treatment Protocol

PRP hair treatment doesn’t harm other hair therapies because it uses growth factors from the patient’s blood. A few protocols of this treatment are:

• Blood samples will be treated with either a single or double spin.
• Platelet concentration is increased 2-6 times that of normal blood.
• PRP injection consists of 6 mL of blood.
• Sometimes, PRP is stabilized by adding porcine-derived extracellular matrix to enhance its results.

What Type Of Hair Loss Does PRP Help?

Platelet-rich plasma treatment can improve results for various types of hair loss. The most common types include:

Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)

A genetic hair loss condition in both men and women, also known as pattern baldness. It affects the crown and vertex for men, while women experience hair thinning on the crown and top of the head. PRP can help treat AGA for both genders.

Alopecia Areata

An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. PRP helps reduce hair thinning, breakage, scarring, and itching, and improves hair growth for alopecia areata patients. 

Stimulation After A Hair Transplant

Hair transplant surgery involves taking hair from one part of the scalp to treat hair loss in affected areas. PRP injections can reactivate hair follicles following hair transplant to increase hair volume and boost recovery period.

However, PRP for hair loss is not useful in some cases:

• Telogen Effluvium: Hair loss condition due to stress.
• Scarring Hair Loss Conditions

Am I a Good Candidate for PRP Hair Treatment?

PRP hair treatment is suitable for almost all types of hair loss, but for some specific conditions, it gives amazing results. In addition to its benefits and cost, consider the following factors:

• Type of hair loss you’re suffering from.
• Platelet count in your blood.
• Blood circulation condition.
• Any Infection in the bloodstream.
• Any Infection in the hair loss-affected scalp.

PRP Hair Treatment Before & After: Do’s & Don’ts 

Before undergoing PRP hair treatment:

• Maintain a healthy diet and drink plenty of water to prevent dizziness.
• Wash your hair using a mild product.
• Don’t use hair sprays or gels.
• Do not take anti-inflammatories and blood thinners.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol before and after getting PRP.

Post-Treatment Care

Follow these guidelines after PRP treatment for hair:

• Do not wash your hair within 24 hours of receiving PRP.
• Treat pain or swelling with ice packs.
• Protect your scalp from any sort of chemicals, sunlight, and heat for 3 days.
• Do not take NSAIDs within 48 hours of getting PRP. 

What Factors Affect PRP Hair Treatment Results?

Platelet-Rich Plasma enhances hair thickness and volume within 6 months. Patients experience decreased hair fall, increased hair thickness, and density after getting PRP injections. However, these results may vary depending on the following factors: 

• Individual variability
• No. of treatment sessions
• Healing period
• Combination with another hair restoration method

PRP hair treatment success rate is high, depending on various noticeable changes and positive ratings by patients.

Outcome	Success Rate
Hair Volume Increase	64%
New Hair Growth	57%
Hair Fall Reduction	48%
Hair Quality Enhancement	46%
Hair Thickness Improvement	38%
Shine	27%

Is PRP Hair Treatment Painful?

PRP is somehow painful,l because of injections into the scalp; however, it is controlled with local anesthesia during treatment. Patients might experience mild pain and tenderness after the treatment, which can be managed with painkillers like paracetamol and Ibuprofen.

How Many PRP Sessions Will I Need?

If you are considering PRP for hair loss, then understanding the treatment schedule and expected results will help set realistic expectations. Most people respond well to a specific treatment plan, but every scalp is different. 

Thus, each treatment plan is customized based on hair type, condition, and the response to treatment. Here is the recommended schedule:

• Call for three sessions, each is one month apart.
• After three months, one follow-up session is mandatory.
• Maintenance treatment is necessary every six months.

Some people will notice results within a few months, while others may observe reduced shedding or increased hair volume. 

Risks of PRP For Hair Loss

PRP is a safe procedure, but several factors can increase the risks of side effects, including:

• Using medications like NSAIDS within 48 hours before treatment.
• Medical conditions such as sepsis, platelet disorder, and low platelet count. 
• Smoking, which affects the healing process.
• Current fever or infection.
• Anemia
• Taking steroid injections within 2 to 4 weeks before PRP.
• A history of certain cancers such as bone cancer.

Before beginning PRP, consult your healthcare provider and disclose your medical history, including any supplements, herbal remedies, or medications you are taking. 

PRP Treatment Side Effects 

PRP hair treatment has very few side effects, such as headache, swelling, or itching in the treated area of the scalp. These can be handled with certain medications. Some contraindications prevent patients from receiving PRP for hair loss:

• Pain & Tenderness – Mild pain or tenderness common at the injection sites and subsides within a few days. 
• Swelling – Often seen around the injection site and resolves quickly. 
• Bruising & Bleeding – Minimal or temporary bruising can occur at the injection site.
• Headache – Some people experience headaches after the procedure, probably due to scalp sensitivity.
• Itching – The scalp becomes itchy as the healing progresses. It is a normal response to micro-injections. 
• Temporary Discoloration – Some people observe slight redness or bruising which fades as the scalp recovers.

How Much Does PRP Hair Treatment Cost?

The average cost of platelet-rich plasma injections varies from nearly $500 to $3500. This large variation accounts for various factors that help determine the total cost of PRP hair treatment. Here’s a breakdown of everything that adds up to cost:

Required Number Of Sessions

The number of sessions required for each patient is the most important factor. The cost of PRP hair treatment is approximately $400 to $600 per session. Some people might get results in 3 to 4 sessions, while others require maintenance sessions at least every 6 months to get desired results. 

Treatment Complexity

The affected area size can also affect the cost of treatment. A large area of scalp affected by baldness or a very small area that requires precision targets increase the complexity of the procedure. More tools and efficiency will be required to treat that area. 

Treatment Equipment Quality

PRP treatment is more effective when using high-quality equipment, like centrifuge machines, and injections. Treatments with premium equipment typically cost more.

Clinic Location

The location of the clinic providing PRP hair treatment service also matters. The pricing is usually higher in larger cities than the smaller ones, with no difference or compromise over the quality in small towns.

Surgeon Expertise

The expertise and experience of the surgeon also affect the total cost. Professionals with a high level of skill, knowledge, and experience ensure better results from PRP therapy, which justify their higher service charges.

Additional Treatments

PRP can also be combined with treatments like microneedling, laser therapy, or topical serums. This will improve results, enhance effectiveness, and the overall PRP treatment cost.

Follow-Up Care

Some clinics offer follow up visits to track the treatment progress. Although this may add extra cost, it’s valuable for the patient to properly follow post treatment care.

Does Insurance Cover PRP Hair Treatment Cost?

Many insurance companies cover the cost of PRP treatment for hair loss, depending on your insurance plan. Some insurance companies cover the pricing if the treatment is performed for medical purposes. 

However, if you’re considering it solely for cosmetic purposes, then your insurance plan may not cover the expenses. In case you don’t have insurance, the PRP service providers also offer payment plans during consultations.

How Does PRP Cost Compare to Other Hair Treatments?

Knowing the PRP hair treatment benefits and cost helps determine whether you should take this treatment or not. 

However, the cost of other hair restoration methods compared to PRP also helps you decide the most suitable treatment according to your budget and hair loss condition. 

Treatment Method	Average Cost Per Session	Total Estimated Cost	Maintenance Requirement
PRP Hair Treatment	$500 – $2,500	$1,500 – $7,500 (3–6 sessions)	Yes – every 6–12 months
FUE Hair Transplant	$4,000 – $15,000	One-time cost	No (usually permanent)
FUT Hair Transplant	$3,000 – $10,000	One-time cost	No (usually permanent)
Laser Therapy (LLLT)	$200 – $500/device	$500 –  $3,000 (device sessions)	Yes – ongoing use
Minoxidil (Rogaine)	$30 – $60/month	$360 – $720/year	Yes – continuous use
Finasteride (Propecia)	$25 – $80/month	$300 – $960/year	Yes – continuous use
Hair Systems/Wigs	$500 – $3,000	$1,000 – $5,000/year	Yes  –  replacement/ maintenance

Hidden Cost & Post-Treatment Expenses

Along with the initial session cost of PRP treatment, there are extra expenses that patients must consider before undergoing the treatment. 

• Post-Treatment Products: Usually, the clinics recommend shampoos, serums, and supplements to boost results. The cost is in the range of $50 to $200/month.
• Follow-Up Visits: While follow-up visits are not included in the package but they are important. Some clinics charge for follow-up consultations separately. 
• Pain Management & Numbing Agents: Before starting the therapy, experts offer numbing creams or local anesthesia. Their cost is about $50 to $100 per session. This will allow the injection to be placed more comfortably and without pain. 
• Travel & Time Off Work: If the clinic is far from home, then travel cost will be required. Also, if one is taking time off work, this will lead to reduction in income. 

Is PRP for hair worth the money?

PRP treatment is a natural, non-invasive therapy that effectively improves hair and scalp health with minimal recovery time. It also gives the long-term results with proper care, making it worth the money spent on it.

How long does PRP last for hair?

The initial results last up to 18 months, but maintenance treatments after 6 to 12 months can help sustain the results.

Is PRP better than minoxidil?

PRP is better than minoxidil for hair loss conditions such as androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. Minoxidil can be used along with PRP to enhance its results.

Why no caffeine after PRP?

Caffeine after PRP makes your blood vessels narrower, hindering the flow of blood, which eventually slows down the healing process.

Does PRP regrow hair permanently?

No, it doesn’t allow permanent regrowth. Instead, it stimulates the existing follicles.

How much do 2 sessions of PRP work?

After the 2 sessions of PRP, reduced shedding and mild thickness is observed. However, optimized results are seen after 3 to 6 sessions.

Is PRP better or hair transplant?

PRP is better for early stage hair loss while hair transplant is for excessive thinning or baldness. PRP is a non-surgical treatment while hair transplant is a permanent procedure.

Will PRP thicken my hair?

Yes, PRP can thicken existing hair and stimulate hair growth in areas that are deficient.