How do PRP hair loss treatments work?

With PRP scalp injections, our skilled nurse draws blood from the client’s arm and treats it with a special medical device called a centrifuge. The spinning motion of the centrifuge separates the platelet-rich plasma from the other blood components. While the blood is being processed, the client’s scalp is numbed with a topical anesthetic cream. The surgeon injects the PRP into the desired treatment areas of the scalp. Most people who opt for PRP require three treatments about four to six weeks apart. Each procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes and can be done during an office visit.

Although more research is needed to determine exactly why PRP works so well for hair loss, experts theorize that the same plasma cell proliferation that promotes wound healing can stimulate the hair follicles and improve circulation to the scalp, thus facilitating hair growth and pigment. This procedure is frequently used by athletes to encourage faster healing of muscle and tendon injuries. Facial PRP injections sometimes called the vampire facial are designed to stimulate collagen production for a refreshed and more youthful complexion.

PRP is safe for most clients who are in good health and do not smoke. However, you should avoid this procedure if you take prescription blood thinners or have a chronic illness.

What is the science behind PRP?

A 2014 study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery found that PRP safely and effectively reduced hair loss for individuals who had androgenic alopecia, commonly called male pattern baldness. A follow-up study published in 2019 by the journal Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported hair regrowth in almost 400 individuals who were treated with PRP for male pattern baldness.

To maintain your new look, you’ll need to come in for maintenance treatments every four to six months. Additional PRP therapy may be required for severe hair loss.