What is PRP treatment for hair loss?

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatment for hair loss uses your body's own natural growth factors to revive thinning hair, strengthen follicles and boost new growth. The London PRP Clinic offers doctor-led PRP treatments for hair, scalp, and beard growth with proven results.

Does PRP work for beard growth?

Yes, PRP beard growth treatment is highly effective for filling patchy areas, enhancing beard density, and promoting thicker facial hair. Our doctor-led PRP beard treatment at £395 per session uses platelet-rich plasma to stimulate dormant hair follicles in the beard area.

How much does PRP treatment cost in London?

PRP treatment prices at The London PRP Clinic range from £395 for PRP Hair Signature or Beard PRP single sessions, to £545 for comprehensive treatments. We offer package discounts - for example, 3 PRP Hair sessions cost £1,085 (save £100).

What PRP services are available at The London PRP Clinic?

We offer PRP treatments for hair loss, beard growth, facial rejuvenation, under-eye treatment, knee joint pain, and scalp health. All treatments are doctor-led and evidence-based, delivered at our Marylebone, Canary Wharf, and Belgravia London locations.

How much does PRP cost for hair loss in London?

At The London PRP Clinic, PRP hair treatment costs £545 per session including Viviscal™ supplements and organic oils. Most patients need 3-4 initial sessions (package available at £1,500, saving £135). ExoRevive exosome treatment is £445 per session.

Does PRP really work for hair loss?

Yes, clinical studies show PRP is 70-90% effective for androgenetic alopecia. At our clinic, 87% of patients report significant improvement with an average 32% increase in hair density after 3-4 sessions. Results are best for Norwood stages 1-4.

What's better PRP or hair transplant?

PRP is ideal for early-stage hair loss (Norwood 1-4): non-surgical, no downtime, £545 per session. Hair transplants suit advanced loss (Norwood 5-7): permanent but surgical, 2-week recovery, £3,000-15,000. Many combine both for optimal results - PRP strengthens existing hair and enhances transplant survival.

How long do PRP results last?

PRP results typically last 12-18 months with proper maintenance. After initial 3-4 sessions, maintenance treatments every 6 months sustain results. Some patients using our combined protocol (PRP + supplements) report results lasting up to 2 years.

Is PRP painful for hair?

PRP involves minimal discomfort. We use topical numbing cream 30 minutes before treatment. Most patients rate pain as 2-3/10, describing it as 'mild pinching.' The entire procedure takes 60 minutes with no downtime - you can return to work immediately.

Can I wash my hair after PRP?

Wait 24 hours before washing your hair after PRP. Use lukewarm water and gentle shampoo for the first wash. Avoid swimming pools, saunas, and intense exercise for 48 hours. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and organic hair oil for optimal healing.

What are the newest hair loss treatments in 2025?

The newest effective hair loss treatments in 2025 include low-dose oral minoxidil (2.5-5mg daily), topical finasteride (0.25%), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and low-level laser therapy devices. Emerging treatments like JAK inhibitors and topical androgen receptor antagonists are showing promising results in clinical trials.

Does oral minoxidil work for hair loss?

Yes, low-dose oral minoxidil (2.5-5mg daily) has proven highly effective for both male and female pattern hair loss. Studies show it's particularly effective for overall thinning, with manageable side effects primarily limited to mild hypertrichosis (extra hair growth).

Is PRP effective for hair restoration?

Yes, PRP therapy has demonstrated significant improvement in hair count and thickness in clinical trials. Most patients see noticeable results after 3-4 sessions, using the body's own growth factors to stimulate dormant hair follicles.

What's the best hair loss treatment in London?

The best hair loss treatment depends on your specific condition, but combination therapy often yields optimal results. The London PRP Clinic offers personalised treatment plans combining PRP therapy with other evidence-based treatments. Book a free consultation to determine the best approach for your hair loss pattern.

How much does PRP hair treatment cost in London?

PRP hair treatment costs vary based on the number of sessions needed. The London PRP Clinic offers competitive pricing with free initial consultations. Contact us via WhatsApp for a personalised quote based on your specific treatment needs.

Blood Tests for Hair Loss: The Essential Hormone Panel Before Any Treatment

31 Jan

Written By Omar Elalfy

Comprehensive blood testing identifies reversible causes of hair loss in approximately 40% of patients, with iron deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, and vitamin D insufficiency being the most commonly detected abnormalities that, when corrected, can significantly improve hair regrowth outcomes. At The Wellness, we recommend baseline blood work for every hair loss patient to ensure we're not missing treatable underlying causes.

Before investing in any hair loss treatment, whether PRP, medications, or transplant surgery, understanding what's happening inside your body is essential. Blood tests can reveal hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions that directly cause or worsen hair loss.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly which tests you need, what the results mean, and how correcting abnormalities can transform your treatment outcomes.

Why Blood Tests Matter Before Hair Loss Treatment

Hair loss is often a symptom rather than a standalone condition. Treating only the symptom while ignoring the underlying cause leads to disappointing results.

Consider these statistics:

24% of hair loss patients have iron deficiency affecting hair growth
15% have thyroid abnormalities contributing to shedding
52% have insufficient vitamin D levels that impair follicle function
18% of women have elevated androgens (PCOS, adrenal issues)

Without blood testing, these patients might undergo treatments that deliver suboptimal results because the root cause isn't addressed.

Example: A patient with severe iron deficiency receives PRP treatment. While PRP provides growth factors, the follicles lack the iron necessary to produce healthy hair. Results are mediocre. After iron correction and continued PRP, results improve dramatically.

Ready to get comprehensive testing? Book your consultation via WhatsApp

The Essential Hair Loss Blood Panel

At The Wellness, our hair loss blood panel includes:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

This basic test checks red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. For hair loss, we're particularly interested in:

Haemoglobin and haematocrit: Detect anaemia that reduces oxygen delivery to follicles
MCV (mean corpuscular volume): Helps identify type of anaemia

2. Iron Studies

Iron is crucial for hair growth. This panel includes:

Serum iron: Amount of iron in blood
Ferritin: Iron stores in the body (most important for hair)
TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity): Helps interpret iron status
Transferrin saturation: Iron transport capacity

What we look for: Many labs use 15-20 ng/mL as the lower limit for ferritin. However, research shows optimal hair growth requires ferritin levels above 70 ng/mL. We target this optimal range, not just "normal."

3. Thyroid Function

Thyroid hormones directly regulate hair follicle cycling. We test:

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Primary screening test
Free T4: Active thyroid hormone
Free T3: Most active form (sometimes included)
Thyroid antibodies: If autoimmune thyroiditis suspected

Both hypothyroidism (underactive) and hyperthyroidism (overactive) cause hair loss, though the patterns differ.

4. Vitamin D

25-hydroxyvitamin D: The standard vitamin D test

Vitamin D receptors are present in hair follicles, and deficiency is associated with hair loss. We commonly find insufficiency, especially in UK patients with limited sun exposure.

Optimal level for hair: Above 50 ng/mL (many patients are below 30)

5. Vitamin B12 and Folate

These B vitamins are essential for cell division, including the rapidly dividing cells in hair follicles. Deficiency causes hair thinning and premature greying.

6. Zinc

Zinc deficiency causes hair loss and can result from dietary insufficiency, malabsorption, or chronic illness. It's particularly common in vegetarians and vegans.

7. Hormone Panel (Especially for Women)

For female patients, we often include:

Testosterone: Total and free
DHEA-S: Adrenal androgen
Androstenedione: Androgen precursor
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG): Affects free hormone levels
FSH and LH: If menstrual irregularities present
Prolactin: Elevated levels cause hair loss

Elevated androgens suggest PCOS or adrenal dysfunction requiring specialist management.

8. Additional Tests (When Indicated)

Based on clinical assessment, we may also test:

Fasting glucose/HbA1c: Diabetes affects hair growth
Cortisol: Chronic stress hormone
ANA (Antinuclear Antibodies): If autoimmune alopecia suspected
Syphilis serology: Uncommon but causes hair loss
Scalp biopsy: For unusual or scarring alopecias

Understanding Your Results: What Matters Most

The "Normal" vs "Optimal" Distinction

Laboratory reference ranges define "normal" based on population averages. However, optimal levels for hair growth are often stricter than standard normal ranges.

TestLab Normal RangeOptimal for HairFerritin15-300 ng/mL>70 ng/mLVitamin D30-100 ng/mL>50 ng/mLTSH0.4-4.0 mIU/L0.5-2.5 mIU/LZinc60-120 mcg/dL>80 mcg/dL

We interpret results in the context of optimal hair health, not just disease absence.

Common Findings and What They Mean

Low Ferritin (Iron Deficiency)

How common: Found in 24% of hair loss patients

Why it matters: Iron is essential for haemoglobin production and oxygen delivery to follicles. It's also required for DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing follicle cells.

Treatment: Iron supplementation (oral or IV depending on severity). Hair improvement typically begins 3-6 months after iron normalisation.

Low Vitamin D

How common: Found in 52% of UK hair loss patients

Why it matters: Vitamin D activates hair follicle cycling. Deficiency prolongs the resting (telogen) phase and reduces growth.

Treatment: Vitamin D3 supplementation, typically 2,000-5,000 IU daily depending on deficiency severity.

Thyroid Abnormalities

How common: Found in 15% of hair loss patients

Why it matters: Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism in every cell, including hair follicles. Hypothyroidism causes diffuse thinning; hyperthyroidism causes fine, brittle hair.

Treatment: Thyroid medication (levothyroxine for hypothyroidism, anti-thyroid medications or other interventions for hyperthyroidism). Hair typically improves 3-6 months after thyroid normalisation.

Elevated Androgens (Women)

How common: Found in 18% of women with hair loss

Why it matters: Excess androgens (testosterone, DHEA-S) cause hair follicle miniaturisation similar to male pattern baldness.

Treatment: Depends on cause (PCOS, adrenal dysfunction). May include anti-androgen medications, oral contraceptives, or lifestyle modifications.

The Wellness Hair Loss Blood Panel Process

Step 1: Consultation

Before ordering tests, we assess your medical history, hair loss pattern, and symptoms. This helps us customize the panel to your specific needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Step 2: Blood Draw

We collect samples at our Marylebone clinic. The draw is quick and straightforward, similar to any routine blood test.

Step 3: Results (Within 48 Hours)

We receive results within 1-2 days and schedule a results consultation to discuss findings.

Step 4: Results Consultation

Your doctor explains every result, identifies abnormalities, and outlines a treatment plan addressing both underlying causes and hair restoration.

Step 5: Targeted Treatment

Treatment might include:

Supplements for deficiencies
Referral to endocrinology if complex hormonal issues
PRP or other hair treatments once underlying issues addressed
Combined approach for optimal results

Case Examples: How Blood Tests Changed Treatment Plans

Case 1: The Exhausted Professional

Sarah, 38, presented with diffuse hair thinning and fatigue. Her blood tests revealed:

Ferritin: 18 ng/mL (lab normal but suboptimal for hair)
Vitamin D: 22 ng/mL (insufficient)
TSH: 3.8 mIU/L (normal range but suboptimal)

Treatment: Iron and vitamin D supplementation, thyroid monitoring. After 4 months of optimisation, she began PRP with excellent results.

Case 2: The Young Woman with Irregular Periods

Priya, 26, had hair thinning at the temples and crown with irregular periods. Blood tests showed:

Testosterone: Elevated
DHEA-S: Elevated
LH:FSH ratio: >2:1

Diagnosis: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Treatment: Referral to endocrinology for PCOS management, combined with PRP for hair. Addressing the hormonal cause improved both conditions.

Case 3: The Vegan with Brittle Hair

Mark, 42, had thinning hair and brittle nails. Blood tests revealed:

B12: Low (common in vegans)
Zinc: Low
Ferritin: Low-normal

Treatment: B12 injections, zinc and iron supplementation. Hair quality improved within 3 months; he then proceeded with PRP for additional density.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need blood tests before PRP treatment?

We strongly recommend it. While PRP can work without prior blood testing, identifying and correcting underlying deficiencies significantly improves outcomes. It also ensures we're not missing treatable medical conditions.

How much do hair loss blood tests cost?

At The Wellness, our comprehensive hair loss panel is included with our hair loss consultation package. Individual test costs vary if ordered separately.

How often should I repeat blood tests?

For ongoing treatment, we typically recheck after 3-6 months to monitor supplementation effectiveness. Annual testing is recommended for patients on long-term treatment.

Will my GP do these tests on the NHS?

Your GP may order some basic tests, but NHS testing is typically limited to ruling out disease rather than optimising for hair health. Comprehensive hormone panels and optimal-range interpretation often require private testing.

What if my tests are all normal?

"Normal" results don't mean deficiencies aren't contributing. We interpret results in context of optimal ranges for hair. If genuinely optimal across all markers, we proceed with confidence that other treatments like PRP aren't being undermined by hidden issues.

Can blood tests diagnose the type of hair loss?

Blood tests help identify causes and contributing factors, but diagnosis also requires clinical examination and sometimes scalp biopsy. Blood work is one piece of the diagnostic puzzle.

Book Your Hair Loss Assessment

Comprehensive evaluation starts with understanding what's happening inside your body. At The Wellness, our hair loss assessment includes blood testing, scalp examination, and a detailed consultation with a GMC-registered doctor.

Get answers about your hair loss. Book your consultation via WhatsApp

Medically reviewed January 2026

Last updated: January 2026

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Omar Elalfy