PRP therapy is one of the most common supportive treatments for hair thinning. It uses the patient's own blood platelets to support the health of the hair follicles. Below we explain what PRP actually is, how a course of treatment usually unfolds, who it may suit and why it's mostly considered a complementary rather than a standalone solution.
What is PRP therapy?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. During the procedure, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient and then processed in a centrifuge. This separates out the platelets, which contain growth factors. The resulting concentrate is gently injected into areas of the scalp where the hair has thinned.
The idea is that the growth factors in platelets may support the blood supply around the follicles and help create a more favourable environment for hair growth. Because the patient's own blood is used, it's a material that is natural to their body.
How does a course of treatment usually work?
PRP is usually carried out as a course rather than a one-off procedure. The exact schedule depends on the individual and the doctor's assessment, but the general pattern is often as follows:
- Initial phase: several sessions spaced closely together, usually a couple of weeks apart.
- Maintenance phase: repeat sessions less frequently, for example every few months.
- Assessment: the doctor monitors the condition of the scalp and hair and adjusts the plan according to how you respond.
A single session is relatively short. The scalp may be numbed before the procedure to reduce discomfort. After a session, most people can return to their usual daily routine, following the instructions given by the clinic.
Who might PRP suit?
PRP is often considered for people whose hair is thinning but whose follicles are still viable. For this reason it's generally thought to be most useful in the earlier stages of thinning. In every case a personal assessment is needed, because hair thinning has many different causes.
PRP may not be suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions, factors related to blood clotting, or medications can affect the procedure. That's precisely why everything always begins with a consultation, where the doctor assesses your situation individually.
A complementary, not a standalone treatment
It's important to understand realistically what PRP offers. It's mostly regarded as a supportive treatment that can complement other methods, rather than a miracle solution that stops hair loss on its own. Results vary from person to person, and some people notice changes more than others.
PRP can work well alongside other approaches, such as:
- other treatments for hair thinning that your doctor recommends;
- everyday care and support for scalp health;
- as a complement to a hair transplant, to support both transplanted and existing follicles.
How does PRP complement a hair transplant?
A hair transplant moves groups of healthy follicles to thinning areas. PRP is sometimes used alongside a transplant with the aim of supporting the healing area and the surrounding hair. Whether and how PRP is right for you depends on your treatment plan and the doctor's assessment.
At the Rubenhair clinic in Riga, we take an individual approach to every patient. A combined plan is drawn up only after a careful assessment, taking into account the condition of your hair, your expectations and your health. You can find more information on our website.
Summary
PRP therapy is a considered, supportive method based on the patient's own blood that may help support hair follicles when thinning occurs. It works best as part of a broader plan rather than as a solution on its own, and results depend on many factors. You'll get the clearest picture of your options at a personal consultation.
If you'd like to know whether PRP or another method might suit you, feel free to book a free consultation with the Rubenhair team. We'll assess your situation and put together a plan that's right for you.