Stem Cell vs PRP for Hair Loss
PRP and stem cell treatments both aim to restore hair, but they work differently: PRP uses growth factors from your blood to stimulate existing follicles, while stem cell treatments use cells that can potentially regenerate tissue. Currently, PRP has stronger clinical evidence for hair loss, while true stem cell therapy remains largely experimental.
Understanding the Difference
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
What It Is:
Concentrated platelets from your own blood, rich in growth factors.
How It Works:
Growth factors signal follicles to enter growth phase
Improves blood supply to hair follicles
Reduces inflammation
Strengthens existing hair
Evidence:
Well-established, numerous clinical studies
70-90% patient satisfaction reported
Consistent, reproducible results
Stem Cell Treatments
What It Is:
Cells with ability to develop into various tissue types. Can be from your own fat (adipose-derived), bone marrow, or laboratory-grown.
How It Works:
Stem cells theoretically regenerate damaged tissue
May produce growth factors similar to PRP
Potential to create new follicles (unproven)
Evidence:
Largely experimental
Limited clinical trials for hair loss specifically
Results inconsistent
Regulatory status unclear in UK
Honest Comparison
Effectiveness:
PRP: Proven effective for many patients, 70-90% see improvement
Stem Cell: Promising but unproven for hair loss specifically
Safety:
PRP: Excellent safety profile, uses your own blood
Stem Cell: Generally safe but less long-term data
Availability:
PRP: Widely available at reputable clinics
Stem Cell: Limited availability, some clinics offering experimental protocols
Cost:
PRP: £400-600 per session typically
Stem Cell: Often £2,000-5,000+ per treatment
Regulation:
PRP: Established, regulated procedure
Stem Cell: Regulatory grey area in many countries
What's Actually Available in the UK
True Stem Cell Therapy:
Genuine stem cell injections for hair loss are not yet mainstream in the UK. Be cautious of clinics claiming to offer "stem cell hair treatment"—many are actually offering:
PRP with marketing spin
Exosomes (cell-derived products)
Fat-derived treatments that may contain some stem cells
What We Recommend:
For hair loss treatment today, PRP has the evidence base and track record. Future stem cell treatments may prove effective, but current options are experimental.
The Future of Hair Regeneration
Emerging Technologies:
Exosome therapy (cell-derived growth factors)
Hair follicle cloning (experimental)
Gene therapy (early research)
Advanced stem cell protocols
These may eventually surpass PRP, but aren't clinically proven yet.
Our Approach at The London PRP Clinic
We offer PRP because:
Strong clinical evidence supports it
Results are reproducible
Safety profile is excellent
It's appropriately regulated
We can honestly stand behind outcomes
We don't currently offer "stem cell" treatments for hair because the evidence doesn't support charging patients for experimental protocols.
Making Your Decision
Choose PRP If:
You want proven, evidence-based treatment
You're looking for realistic improvement
Budget is a consideration
You prefer established protocols
Consider Waiting for Stem Cells If:
You're interested in experimental treatments
Budget isn't a concern
You understand it's unproven
You've exhausted other options
Book PRP Consultation
Get honest advice on the best treatment for your hair loss.
FAQ
Is stem cell better than PRP?
Not currently—PRP has more evidence for hair loss. Stem cell may become superior in future as research advances.
Why do some clinics offer "stem cell hair treatment"?
Marketing. Many "stem cell" treatments are actually PRP or similar. Always ask exactly what's being injected.
Should I wait for stem cell treatment?
Hair loss progresses. Treating now with PRP can preserve hair while you wait for future options.
The London PRP Clinic. Evidence-based hair restoration.