PRP is the most-asked-about treatment in our consultation room. Patients arrive with one of two extremes from social media: "miracle regrowth in 4 weeks" or "complete scam." The honest answer sits somewhere in between, and the timeline matters more than any single session.
What PRP actually is
Your own blood, drawn in the clinic — usually 10-20 ml. We spin it through a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma layer. That plasma is then injected, via fine 30-gauge needles, into the scalp where follicles are miniaturising. Total appointment: 30-45 minutes.
The growth factors in PRP — PDGF, VEGF, IGF and others — signal dormant follicles back into the active growth phase. That's the mechanism. Whether it works for you depends on the stage of your hair loss, your overall health, and treatment compliance.
Session 1 — what to expect
Mild scalp tenderness for 24 hours. Some patients describe it as a sunburn-like sensation. No painkillers needed beyond paracetamol if uncomfortable.
No visible change yet — and importantly, you may notice slightly more shedding for 1-2 weeks. This is the dormant follicles being pushed into the active growth cycle, displacing old strands. It's a good sign, not a bad one. We warn every patient about this so they don't quit at session 2.
Session 4 — around three months in
Texture changes first. Hair feels thicker between fingers. Patients usually notice this before they notice density change in the mirror.
First objective marker: less hair on the pillow and shower drain. We ask patients to keep an honest mental log — most are surprised at how much it has reduced by week 12.
On in-clinic trichoscopy, we start seeing new vellus (fine, downy) hairs along the part-line. We document this with comparison photos so the trajectory is visible.
Session 8 — six months in
Visible density change for responders. The part-line tightens, the crown looks fuller in photos under the same lighting. This is when patients send before-and-after photos to family — usually with disbelief in the message.
Plateau sets in around month 7-8. The maintenance phase begins: typically a single PRP session every 3-4 months, alongside topical minoxidil.
PRP works best on hair that's miniaturising, not hair that's already gone. Earlier is meaningfully better. We tell patients honestly: 70-80% respond well, 20-30% are non-responders.
Who we don't recommend it for
Active scalp infection or seborrheic dermatitis — treat the inflammation first.
Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy — coordinate with the prescribing physician before considering PRP.
Late-stage Norwood (men) or Ludwig (women) grades where the follicles are largely gone — surgical options become more honest. PRP can't grow hair where there are no follicles left.
If you're considering PRP, the first appointment is a candidacy review, not a session. We want to make sure you're someone PRP will actually help before charging you for eight rounds of it.
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