PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) for Face and Scalp

How it works

Blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets in a small volume of plasma. Platelets carry growth factors that take part in wound healing. The concentrate is then injected, or applied after microneedling, where it is thought to encourage cell activity and collagen production in the surrounding tissue. The evidence is strongest for supporting hair density in pattern thinning and weaker for general facial rejuvenation, and preparation methods differ between kits and clinics.

Who it may suit

• Early thinning hair where follicles are still active
• Mild acne scars when combined with microneedling
• Skin that looks thin, crepey or tired around the eyes
• People who prefer using a product made from their own blood

The treatment day

1. Blood draw. A small sample is taken from the arm, much like a routine blood test.
2. Centrifuge preparation. The sample is spun to separate and concentrate the platelet-rich layer.
3. Numbing and cleansing. The treatment area is cleaned and numbing cream is applied.
4. Injection or topical application. PRP is injected into the scalp or skin, or spread on the face during microneedling.

Aftercare

• Expect redness and slight swelling for a day or two
• Avoid heavy exercise and sauna on the day of treatment
• Skip anti-inflammatory painkillers unless the doctor allows them, as they may blunt the response
• Use sunscreen on the face and keep the scalp gentle
• Report increasing pain, warmth or discharge

Things to know first

• Bruising, tenderness, small bumps and headache after scalp treatment are common
• Infection is uncommon but possible; rare complications near the eye mean under-eye work needs an experienced injector
• Blood disorders, low platelet counts, active infection, anticoagulant use and certain cancers are reasons to avoid it
• Smoking and heavy alcohol use may reduce quality of the sample
• Results vary and several sessions may be needed

How PRP compares with nearby options

On the hair thinning page, PRP sits beside scalp mesotherapy and prescription medicines. It has more published studies than cocktail injections, but it is most useful as support for active follicles rather than as a replacement for medical therapy.

For acne scars, PRP is usually an add-on to microneedling or microneedle RF, not a stand-alone approach. It cannot release tethered scars the way subcision can, and it will not match laser resurfacing for deeper marks.

For skin quality and dark circles, comparison is with skin boosters and under-eye filler. Boosters add hydration or regenerative agents with a standardized product, while PRP's composition depends on your own blood and preparation. Filler is the only one of these that replaces lost volume.