PRP for Hair Loss: What to Know Before Considering Treatment
Updated: Oct 2
Hair thinning can be distressing, and many people look into platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as an option. This article is educational: it explains what PRP is, what the research does and does not show, and why finding the cause of hair loss comes first. It is not medical advice or a recommendation for treatment.
What Is PRP?
PRP is a concentration of platelets prepared from a small sample of your own blood. For scalp treatment, the process generally involves:
A blood sample is drawn
The sample is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets
The resulting plasma is injected into areas of the scalp
What the Research Shows and Does Not Show
Some small studies and reviews have reported increases in hair density in people with pattern hair loss after PRP. However, the studies differ in how PRP is prepared, how often it is given, and how results are measured, and many are small. PRP is not FDA-approved or FDA-cleared for the treatment of hair loss; use for this purpose is off-label. Response varies from person to person, and results are not guaranteed.
Why the Cause of Hair Loss Matters
Hair loss has many possible causes, including genetics (pattern hair loss), thyroid disease, iron deficiency, recent illness or surgery, medications, stress, and autoimmune conditions. Some of these are treated very differently from pattern hair loss. A medical evaluation, which may include a history, scalp examination, and laboratory testing, helps determine the cause before any treatment is considered.
Possible Side Effects
Because PRP is made from your own blood, allergic reactions are uncommon, but injection-related effects can occur, including scalp soreness, swelling, bruising, headache, and, rarely, infection or bleeding. People who take blood thinners, have blood or platelet disorders, have active scalp infection, or are pregnant should discuss suitability with a provider.
Other Options
Depending on the cause, other approaches may be discussed, including FDA-approved topical or oral medications, treatment of an underlying medical condition, or referral to a dermatologist. Your provider can review the options that fit your situation.
Next Step
To discuss hair thinning with a Modern Medical Spa provider, call 509-392-5007 to schedule a consultation. A consultation does not guarantee that treatment will be recommended.
This content is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Treatment, if recommended, is determined by your provider after an in-person evaluation. Individual results vary.
