Dealing with hair loss? This is the PRP hair growth treatment you should know about
If you have started to notice more scalp showing in the mirror or extra strands on your pillow you are not alone. Hair loss is one of the most common concerns we see at The Wellness, in women and men. Whether you are dealing with female pattern hair loss male pattern hair loss or a form of alopecia the impact on confidence mood and daily life can be huge.
One of the most promising non surgical options for stimulating hair growth is platelet rich plasma often shortened to PRP. In this guide we will walk through how hair growth works what causes hair loss and how PRP may help you support healthier thicker looking hair.
Understanding hair growth and hair loss
Each hair on your head grows from a follicle within the scalp. Hair growth follows a repeating cycle
A growth phase when hair actively lengthens
A transition phase when growth slows
A resting and shedding phase when the hair falls and a new one begins to grow
In female pattern hair loss and male pattern hair loss also called androgenetic alopecia the growth phase becomes shorter and the follicle gradually produces finer weaker hairs. Over time some follicles may stop producing visible hair at all.
Other forms of alopecia such as alopecia areata involve the immune system attacking the follicles so hair falls out in patches or more widely. Hormones genetics stress nutritional issues and medical conditions can all contribute.
Because there are many possible causes a proper assessment is essential before choosing any treatment plan.
What is PRP for hair growth
PRP stands for platelet rich plasma. It uses a small sample of your own blood which is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. Platelets are tiny cell fragments that carry growth factors and signalling proteins.
In PRP for hair loss this concentrated plasma is injected carefully into areas of thinning on the scalp. The idea is that growth factors released from the platelets help to
Support blood flow and nutrient delivery to the follicles
Prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle
Encourage stronger thicker hair shafts
Studies in pattern hair loss and some types of alopecia show that PRP can increase hair density and reduce shedding for many patients although results vary and research is still evolving.
Who might consider PRP at The Wellness
PRP may be considered if you
Are dealing with female pattern hair loss or male pattern hair loss
Have certain non scarring forms of alopecia such as alopecia areata after specialist assessment
Prefer to explore options that use your own blood products rather than systemic medicines
Are already using treatments such as topical minoxidil and wish to add another evidence informed approach
It is generally less suitable if there is extensive scarring on the scalp or if follicles have been inactive for many years. Your clinician will also check for medical reasons why PRP may not be appropriate such as some blood disorders or active scalp infection.
Benefits of PRP for hair loss and alopecia
Current research suggests several potential benefits
Improved hair density in many people with androgenetic alopecia when treatment is carried out in a structured programme of repeated sessions
Positive results seen in some studies of female pattern hair loss which is often under recognised and under treated
A treatment using your own blood product which limits the risk of allergy
Minimal downtime after each session for most people
Evidence also suggests that PRP can work alongside established therapies such as topical minoxidil and that the combination may in some cases give better outcomes than either option alone.
What to expect during PRP hair treatment
Although details vary slightly between clinics a typical PRP process at The Wellness will look like this
Consultation and diagnosis
Your clinician will take a full medical history examine your scalp and hair and may request blood tests to check for hormonal or nutritional contributors. The aim is to confirm the type of hair loss and rule out conditions that need different treatment.Preparing the PRP
A small amount of blood is taken from your arm similar to a standard blood test. This is spun in a centrifuge to separate the components and concentrate the platelets in the plasma layer.Treating the scalp
The PRP is drawn into small syringes and carefully injected across the areas of thinning hair. A topical anaesthetic cream or local numbing can be used to reduce discomfort. Most people describe the feeling as tolerable rather than painful and the session is usually completed within under an hour.Aftercare
You can typically return to usual activities the same day. The scalp may feel sensitive for a short time and there may be mild redness. Your clinician will explain how to care for the scalp and which hair products to avoid for the first day.
Most protocols suggest at least three initial sessions spaced roughly a month apart followed by maintenance sessions a few times per year if you respond well.
Supporting hair growth alongside PRP
For many people the best results come from a combined plan. Depending on your assessment your clinician may also discuss
Medicated topical treatments such as minoxidil
Prescription options for some men and suitable women
Nutritional testing and correction of low iron vitamin D or other factors
Hormone assessment when appropriate for example around perimenopause or polycystic ovary syndrome
Lifestyle support including stress management sleep and metabolic health
At The Wellness we view hair loss as a window into wider health. Addressing underlying factors can support not only hair but also energy mood and long term wellbeing.
Frequently asked questions about PRP for hair growth
How soon might I see a change
Most people will not see an immediate difference because hair grows slowly. If PRP works for you the first sign is often reduced shedding followed by a gradual increase in thickness and coverage over several months.
Can PRP regrow hair in completely bald areas
If follicles have been inactive for a long time or there is scarring it is less likely that PRP will restore visible hair. In these cases your clinician can explain which options are realistic and whether hair transplant surgery might be more suitable.
Is PRP safe
Because PRP uses your own blood product the risk of allergy is low. Side effects are usually mild and short lived such as soreness or temporary swelling at injection sites. Any procedure that involves injections carries a small risk of bruising infection or bleeding which your clinician will discuss in detail. Long term safety is still being studied in large groups but current evidence suggests PRP is generally well tolerated when carried out by trained professionals using appropriate equipment.
When to seek personalised advice
If you are worried about female pattern hair loss male pattern hair loss or any type of alopecia the earlier you seek help the more options you are likely to have. Sudden or patchy hair loss always needs prompt medical review.
At The Wellness our doctors combine detailed assessment with evidence informed treatments including PRP and broader wellness support. Together we can build a plan that aims to protect your hair health and your confidence in a way that suits your life and values.
Nothing in this article replaces a consultation with a qualified medical professional. If you are considering PRP or any treatment for hair loss please speak with your GP or arrange a free consultation with one of our doctors at The Wellness.