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.

PRP vs Hair Transplant: Which Hair Restoration Treatment is Right for You?

29 Jan

Written By Omar Elalfy

PRP is ideal for patients with early to moderate hair loss who want to preserve and thicken existing hair, while hair transplants are better suited for advanced hair loss requiring relocation of follicles to completely bald areas. Research shows PRP produces 94% improvement rates in suitable candidates, while transplants offer permanent coverage but cost 3-5 times more and require surgical recovery.

If you're losing hair and researching your options, you've likely come across both treatments. Each has distinct advantages and limitations. The right choice depends on your stage of hair loss, goals, budget, and tolerance for surgery.

In this comprehensive comparison, we'll help you understand which treatment suits your situation based on our clinical experience with both approaches.

Quick Comparison: PRP vs Hair Transplant at a Glance

FactorPRPHair TransplantBest forEarly to moderate thinningAdvanced hair loss, complete baldnessHow it worksRegenerates existing folliclesRelocates donor folliclesProcedure typeNon-surgical (injections)Surgical (FUE or FUT)DowntimeNone7-14 daysVisible results3-6 months9-15 monthsSessions required3-4 initial, then maintenanceUsually one (sometimes two)London cost range£1,500-3,000 (first year)£4,000-15,000Pain levelMild discomfortModerate (with anaesthesia)ScarringNoneMinimal (FUE) to linear (FUT)MaintenanceOngoing (2-4x yearly)Optional but recommendedRisk levelVery lowLow to moderate

When to Choose PRP Hair Treatment

PRP works by regenerating existing follicles that are weakening but not yet dead. It's the right choice when:

Your Hair Loss is Early to Moderate

If you're Norwood 2-4 (men) or Ludwig 1-2 (women), you likely have plenty of viable follicles that can respond to PRP growth factors. In our clinic, patients at these stages typically see the best results.

You Want to Preserve What You Have

PRP is excellent for prevention and maintenance. Many patients use it to strengthen thinning areas before hair loss becomes more severe. Think of it as reinforcing the foundation rather than rebuilding the structure.

You Prefer Non-Invasive Treatment

No surgery means no incisions, no sutures, and no downtime. You can have a PRP session during lunch and return to work immediately.

Your Budget is Limited

With packages starting around £1,500 for the initial treatment course, PRP is significantly more affordable than surgery. It's a realistic option for patients who want effective treatment without the surgical investment.

You're Not Ready for Surgery

Some patients want to try conservative options before committing to surgery. PRP offers a way to improve hair density without closing the door on future transplant options.

You're Combining with Other Treatments

PRP works synergistically with medications like minoxidil and finasteride. Many patients achieve excellent results with combination therapy that doesn't require surgery.

Considering PRP as your first step? Book a consultation via WhatsApp

When to Choose a Hair Transplant

Hair transplants relocate healthy follicles from donor areas (typically the back and sides of the head) to areas of baldness. It's the right choice when:

You Have Significant Baldness

If you're Norwood 5+ with large bald areas, PRP alone cannot create coverage because there are too few viable follicles to regenerate. Transplant is often the only option for restoring hair to completely bald regions.

You Want Permanent Results in Bald Areas

Transplanted follicles are typically resistant to DHT (the hormone causing hair loss) because they come from resistant donor areas. These hairs continue growing permanently in their new location.

You Have Good Donor Hair

A successful transplant requires sufficient donor density. If the back and sides of your head have robust, healthy hair, you have the raw material for a good transplant.

You're Prepared for Surgery and Recovery

Transplant surgery takes 4-8 hours. Recovery involves swelling, crusting, and activity restrictions for 1-2 weeks. You need to be physically and mentally prepared for this process.

You Have a Larger Budget

Quality transplant surgery in London ranges from £4,000 to £15,000 depending on technique and number of grafts. It's a significant investment.

You Want to Address Receding Hairline or Crown

Transplants excel at recreating hairlines and filling in the crown, areas where PRP may produce limited results in advanced cases.

Can You Combine PRP and Hair Transplant?

Yes, and many surgeons recommend it. Here's how they work together:

Before Transplant:

PRP can strengthen existing hair, potentially reducing the number of grafts needed. It optimises the scalp environment before surgery.

After Transplant:

PRP accelerates healing and may improve graft survival rates. Studies show patients who receive PRP post-transplant have higher graft take rates and faster recovery.

For Maintenance:

Even after a successful transplant, the non-transplanted native hair continues to thin. PRP helps maintain these hairs, preserving the overall aesthetic result.

At The Wellness, we offer PRP as both a standalone treatment and as a complement to surgical hair restoration.

Real Patient Scenarios: Which Would We Recommend?

Scenario 1: James, 32, Norwood 2-3

James noticed his hairline receding slightly and some thinning at the crown. He still has good overall density but is worried about progression.

Our recommendation: PRP with medical therapy. James has plenty of viable follicles that can respond to regeneration. Starting now can prevent further loss and potentially restore some density. Surgery is premature at this stage.

Scenario 2: Sarah, 45, Ludwig 1

Sarah has diffuse thinning across her scalp, particularly at the part line. Her hair is thinner but she doesn't have bald patches.

Our recommendation: PRP. Female pattern hair loss typically involves miniaturisation rather than complete baldness, making PRP highly effective. Women also have limited donor hair for transplants.

Scenario 3: Michael, 48, Norwood 5

Michael has significant baldness at the front and crown, with only a ring of hair around the sides and back. He's had this pattern for over a decade.

Our recommendation: Hair transplant as the primary treatment, with PRP for maintenance of remaining native hair. The bald areas have been bare too long for PRP alone to restore coverage.

Scenario 4: Priya, 35, Norwood 3

Priya has a noticeably receded hairline but good density elsewhere. She wants to address the hairline but isn't sure about surgery.

Our recommendation: Start with PRP to stabilise and potentially improve. If the hairline doesn't improve adequately after 6-12 months, consider transplant for hairline reconstruction while continuing PRP for the rest.

Wondering which approach suits your situation? Let's discuss via WhatsApp

Cost Comparison: London Pricing

PRP Hair Treatment:

ItemCostInitial consultationOften includedSingle session£350-600Package of 3£900-1,500Annual maintenance (2-4 sessions)£700-2,000First year total£1,500-3,000

Hair Transplant:

ItemCostConsultation£50-200FUE (1,000 grafts)£3,000-5,000FUE (2,000 grafts)£5,000-8,000FUE (3,000+ grafts)£8,000-15,000FUT (strip method)£4,000-10,000One-time investment£4,000-15,000

Long-term cost consideration:

PRP requires ongoing maintenance, so costs accumulate over time. After 5 years, you might spend £7,000-10,000 on PRP. A transplant has higher upfront costs but may not require repeat procedures. However, many transplant patients also use PRP for maintenance.

Recovery and Lifestyle Impact

PRP Recovery:

Return to work: Immediately
Exercise: After 48 hours
Hair washing: After 24 hours
Visible marks: Possible pinpoint redness for hours
Total disruption: Minimal

Transplant Recovery:

Return to office work: 2-3 days (remote work possible same day)
Return to physical work: 10-14 days
Strenuous exercise: 3-4 weeks
Hair washing: Careful technique for 2 weeks
Visible signs: 7-14 days of crusting, swelling, redness
Full recovery: 2-3 months
Final results visible: 12-15 months

Effectiveness: What Results Can You Expect?

PRP Results:

Improvement rate: 94% of suitable candidates
Hair density increase: 28-42 hairs per cm² average
Best results: Early to moderate hair loss
Duration: Requires maintenance to sustain

Transplant Results:

Success rate: 85-95% graft survival
Coverage: Excellent in treated areas
Best results: Adequate donor hair, skilled surgeon
Duration: Permanent (transplanted hairs)

Important note: Neither treatment stops the underlying hair loss process. Without maintenance (medication, PRP, or both), native untransplanted hair continues to thin over time.

Risks and Side Effects Comparison

PRP Risks:

Temporary scalp tenderness (common)
Minor swelling or bruising (occasional)
Infection (very rare)
Unsatisfactory results (possible)
Serious complications (extremely rare)

Transplant Risks:

Swelling and discomfort (expected)
Infection (rare with proper care)
Scarring (minimal with FUE, linear with FUT)
Shock loss (temporary loss of existing hair)
Poor graft survival (depends on technique)
Unnatural results (depends on surgeon skill)
Numbness in donor/recipient areas (usually temporary)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PRP replace a hair transplant?

For early to moderate hair loss, PRP may achieve your goals without surgery. For advanced baldness with large bald areas, PRP alone cannot restore coverage and transplant is typically necessary.

Should I try PRP before committing to a transplant?

This is often a sensible approach, especially if your hair loss is not yet severe. PRP results can inform whether you need surgery and may reduce the extent of transplant required.

How long do transplanted hairs last?

Transplanted follicles are typically permanent because they retain their DHT-resistant characteristics from the donor area. However, the surrounding native hair continues to thin without maintenance.

Can I have PRP if I've already had a transplant?

Yes, and it's recommended. PRP helps maintain native hair and can optimise the scalp environment around transplanted follicles.

Is one treatment definitively better than the other?

No. The right treatment depends entirely on your individual situation. Someone with Norwood 2 hair loss would likely do better with PRP, while someone with Norwood 6 would need a transplant.

The Wellness Approach: Honest Assessment

At The Wellness, we don't push patients toward any particular treatment. During your consultation, we assess:

Your current stage of hair loss
The viability of your existing follicles
Your goals and expectations
Your budget and lifestyle
Your tolerance for surgery

Based on this assessment, we provide an honest recommendation. If PRP isn't likely to help you, we'll tell you. If you're a candidate who would benefit from PRP, we'll explain what results you can realistically expect.

Ready for an honest assessment of your options? Contact us on WhatsApp to book a consultation

Medically reviewed January 2026

Last updated: January 2026

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Omar Elalfy