PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): How Effective Is It for Skin and Hair?

What is PRP and how does it work?

PRP stands for “platelet-rich plasma”. Platelets are cell fragments that take part in blood clotting and contain growth factors that play a role in tissue repair.

During the procedure, a small amount of blood is drawn from your arm. The blood is spun in a centrifuge in a special tube to separate it into its components, and the platelet-rich plasma portion is collected. The prepared plasma is then applied to the scalp or skin with fine needles. The aim is to support tissue repair processes with the growth factors released by the platelets.

Because the material used is your own blood, the risk of an allergic reaction is considered low. However, this does not mean the procedure is safe under all conditions: failure to follow hygiene rules while the blood is prepared and applied can lead to infection.

Why does a sterile, closed system matter? From the tube your blood is drawn into until the moment it is injected back into you, its contact with open air and other materials should be kept to a minimum. Single-use, sterile, closed-system kits, tubes clearly labelled as yours, and carrying out the entire procedure in a healthcare facility reduce the risk of infection and mix-ups.

What is it used for?

• Androgenetic alopecia (hereditary, hormone-related hair loss): this is the most studied aesthetic use of PRP. Analyses that pool randomised controlled trials report an increase in hair density in some patients; however, the studies are small, preparation methods differ from one another, and results vary. The evidence is limited and debated.
• Skin rejuvenation (skin texture, fine lines, radiance): few studies have been done for this use and the evidence is limited. Its effectiveness has not yet been clearly shown.
• Acne scars: in some studies it has been used together with other methods (e.g. microneedling or laser); evidence for its effect on its own is limited.
• Under-eye area and other areas: evidence for these uses is even more limited; you should discuss your expectations openly with your doctor.

Why the cause of hair loss should be investigated first

Hair loss does not have a single cause. Thyroid disease, iron deficiency, some vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, a past serious illness or surgery, the period after childbirth, some medicines, stress and scalp conditions can all cause hair loss. In these cases, the main treatment is correcting the underlying cause.

For this reason, before PRP is considered, you should be assessed by a doctor and, if needed, with blood tests. For example, alopecia areata (patchy hair loss) or scarring types of hair loss require a different approach. Once your doctor has identified the type of hair loss, they can discuss whether PRP is a meaningful option for you.

Who might it suit?

Adults who have been diagnosed with androgenetic hair loss, who have realistic expectations and who can set aside time for several sessions may be assessed for PRP. PRP is sometimes considered alongside other hair treatments recommended by the doctor, not instead of them.

If you are considering PRP for your skin, it is advisable to decide knowing that the evidence is limited, and to also discuss options with stronger evidence with your doctor.

Who is it not suitable for, and what should you watch out for?

In the following situations PRP is generally not recommended, or a doctor's assessment is essential first:

• Blood disorders affecting platelet count or function, clotting disorders
• Use of blood thinners (anticoagulants) or medicines that affect platelet function — never stop these medicines on your own; always consult the doctor who prescribed them
• Active infection in the treatment area or in general, or an illness with fever
• A cancer diagnosis or cancer treatment; skin cancer in the treatment area
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (safety data for these periods are insufficient)

This list is not complete; tell your doctor about all your health conditions and the medicines you take. Mention herbal products and supplements too. Some painkillers and supplements can increase the tendency to bleed and bruise.

Who should perform it, and where?

PRP is a medical procedure involving blood draws and injections. In Turkey, these matters are regulated by the Ministry of Health; the procedure must be performed by a doctor in a licensed healthcare facility. Drawing and processing blood in settings such as a home, hairdresser or beauty salon carries serious risks in terms of sterile conditions and the ability to intervene if a complication occurs.

Preparing for the procedure

• See your doctor for an examination; have any tests requested for hair loss done before the procedure.
• List the medicines and supplements you take; only your doctor decides which, if any, should be paused.
• Drink enough fluids and eat a light meal before the procedure; having blood drawn on an empty stomach can cause dizziness.
• You may be asked to wash your hair before a scalp treatment; do not use oily or styling products.
• If you have a fever, flu-like symptoms, or a spot/wound in the treatment area, the appointment may need to be postponed.

The procedure day, step by step

1. Your doctor reviews your health and your expectations, and written informed consent is obtained.
2. A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm; the labels showing the tubes belong to you are checked.
3. The blood is separated in a centrifuge in a sterile, closed-system tube and the platelet-rich plasma is prepared.
4. The treatment area is cleaned and wiped with antiseptic; if needed, a local anaesthetic cream or cold application is used.
5. The plasma is injected in small amounts into the scalp or skin with fine needles; sometimes it is combined with microneedling.
6. After the procedure the area is checked, and aftercare advice and a follow-up date are given to you in writing.

After the procedure: the first 24 hours and the first week

In the first hours, redness, mild swelling, tightness and tenderness in the treatment area are normal. After scalp treatments, there may be a feeling of fullness in the head and mild pain.

• On the first day, take care not to touch or rub the area and not to wear make-up.
• Ask your doctor when you can wash your hair.
• Avoid intense exercise, saunas, Turkish baths (hammam) and prolonged sun exposure for as long as your doctor recommends.
• If you need a painkiller, ask your doctor which medicine you can use.

Expected side effects

• Pain, redness and tenderness at the injection sites
• Mild swelling and bruising (usually resolves within a few days)
• Temporary itching or tightness of the scalp
• Bruising where the blood was drawn
• Rarely, dizziness or feeling faint (especially during the blood draw)

If you cannot reach your doctor, go to the nearest emergency department. Unless your doctor advises it, do not massage the area or apply heat or ice.

When are results seen, and how long do they last?

In people who benefit from PRP for hair loss, the first change is usually noticed within a few months as reduced shedding. Any increase in hair density can only be assessed after several months of follow-up. For this reason, it is useful to take photos under standard conditions before the procedure so that results can be compared.

Because the effect can fade over time, treatment is usually planned as an initial course followed by periodic repeats. The number and spacing of sessions are set individually by the doctor; there is no single protocol accepted across all studies.

Realistic expectations: what PRP cannot do

• It is not expected to regrow hair in completely hairless (bald) areas; it may be more meaningful in thinned areas where the hair follicles are still alive.
• It does not treat underlying causes of hair loss such as thyroid problems or iron deficiency.
• It does not give the same result for everyone; some people may see no noticeable response.
• It does not lift sagging skin, and it does not correct deep wrinkles the way fillers or surgery can.
• Results are not expected after a single session, and the effect may fade after treatment is stopped.

Alternatives

This article is for general information only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. You should decide on the right option for you together with your doctor after an examination.