Quick answer: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections, often combined with scalp microneedling, can help thinning hair grow thicker by supporting weakened hair follicles. It works best for early to moderate pattern hair loss in men and women, where follicles are still alive. Most protocols use 3 to 4 sessions about a month apart, followed by maintenance. Results usually show after 3 to 6 months. |
Hair thinning is common and can affect confidence at any age. PRP has become a popular option because it uses your own blood and doesn’t involve surgery. This guide explains how it works, who it suits, what results to expect and how it fits with other hair loss treatments.
How PRP helps thinning hair
Hair grows from follicles, which cycle through growth, rest and shedding. In pattern hair loss, follicles gradually shrink and produce thinner, weaker hairs, and the growth phase gets shorter.
PRP is made by drawing a small amount of your blood and spinning it to concentrate the platelets. Platelets carry growth factors, proteins that signal tissue to repair and grow. When PRP is injected into the scalp, these growth factors are thought to:
- Support shrinking follicles.
- Extend the growth phase of the hair cycle.
- Increase hair thickness and density.
Why add microneedling?
Scalp microneedling uses fine needles to create tiny channels in the skin. It’s thought to work in two ways:
- It triggers a repair response in the scalp that can support hair growth on its own.
- It may help PRP and topical treatments reach the follicles more effectively.
Studies of microneedling combined with treatments like minoxidil have shown better results than either alone, which is why many clinics combine it with PRP.
Who is a good candidate?
PRP tends to work best if you:
- Have early to moderate thinning, such as a widening part, a thinning crown or receding temples.
- Have androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss).
- Still have hair in the thinning areas. PRP supports existing follicles. It doesn’t create new ones in completely bald areas.
- Are in good general health.
It’s less likely to help, or needs a doctor’s assessment first, if:
- The area is completely bald.
- Your hair loss is sudden, patchy or comes with scalp redness or scaling, which can point to other causes.
- You have a blood or platelet disorder, take blood thinners, or have an active scalp infection.
- You’re pregnant, or have had a recent illness, major stress or a medication change, which can cause temporary shedding that usually recovers on its own.
Find the cause first. Thyroid problems, low iron, hormonal changes and some medicines can all cause hair loss. Treating the cause may matter more than any procedure. A wellness assessment with lab work can help rule these out.
What a session is like
- Blood draw. A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm.
- The blood is spun to separate the PRP.
- The scalp is numbed for comfort.
- Microneedling and PRP. The scalp is microneedled, and PRP is injected into the thinning areas and applied to the scalp.
A session usually takes about an hour. Your scalp may feel tender and look slightly red for a day or two. Avoid washing your hair for the rest of the day, and skip hair dye, hard workouts and hot showers on the scalp for a few days.
How many sessions and when will I see results?
Most protocols use 3 to 4 sessions spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart, then a maintenance session every 3 to 6 months.
Timeline | What to expect |
First 1 to 2 months | Less shedding for some people |
Months 3 to 6 | New growth and thicker hair become noticeable |
Ongoing | Maintenance keeps results. Without it, thinning usually continues over time |
Taking photos before your first session in consistent lighting makes progress easier to see.
What the evidence says
Research on PRP for pattern hair loss is promising. Many studies show improvements in hair density and thickness, and leading dermatology organizations recognize it as an option. But studies vary in how PRP is prepared and given, and results differ from person to person. PRP often works best as part of a plan that includes proven treatments like minoxidil or prescription medicines from your doctor.
Microneedling and PRP for hair in Royal Oak
At Well Labs+ Medspa Royal Oak, PRP hair restoration is performed by licensed providers under our medical director, Dr. Sumner, starting with a look at your hair, scalp and history. We’re at 26454 Woodward Ave, Suite 200, close to Birmingham, Troy, Ferndale and Berkley.
[Provider note: add whether the clinic also offers PRF or other growth-factor treatments for hair, and a sentence on how you track progress (for example, standardized photos).]
PRP is also used to refresh the skin. See our guide to PRP injections for the face. Learn more on our PRP hair restoration page, or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Does PRP for hair loss work?
It can help thinning hair grow thicker, especially in early to moderate pattern hair loss. Results vary, and maintenance is needed.
Does PRP hair treatment hurt?
The scalp is numbed first. Most people feel pressure and some tenderness, which fades in a day or two.
Is PRP good for women’s hair loss?
Yes. Women with thinning from female pattern hair loss are often good candidates. Hormonal and nutritional causes should be checked too.
How long do PRP hair results last?
Results usually need maintenance every 3 to 6 months. Without it, pattern hair loss tends to continue.
Can PRP regrow hair on a bald spot?
No. PRP supports existing follicles. It can’t create new ones where hair has been gone for a long time.
