PRP therapy concentrates growth factors from your own blood and injects them into the scalp to stimulate dormant follicles and improve hair density. Evidence is moderate — several randomized controlled trials show benefit for thinning hair, though it's not a replacement for transplantation in areas of complete baldness. In Colombia, sessions cost $200–$500 (vs $600–$1,500 in the US).
How PRP Works
Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy starts with a simple blood draw — typically 20–60ml from your arm. The blood is placed in a centrifuge that separates it into layers: red blood cells, platelet-poor plasma, and a concentrated platelet-rich layer. This PRP fraction contains 3–5x the normal concentration of platelets, which release growth factors (PDGF, VEGF, TGF-β, EGF) when activated.
The concentrated PRP is then injected into the scalp using a series of micro-injections across the thinning areas. These growth factors stimulate the dermal papilla cells at the base of hair follicles, promoting follicular stem cell activity, extending the growth phase (anagen) of the hair cycle, and improving blood supply to the follicles.
What the Evidence Shows
PRP for hair loss has more supporting evidence than many non-surgical treatments, but it's not yet at the gold-standard level of large-scale randomized controlled trials. The current evidence base includes:
- Multiple randomized controlled trials showing statistically significant improvement in hair density and thickness compared to placebo injections
- Meta-analyses suggesting a consistent positive effect across studies, though with variability in the magnitude of improvement
- Best results observed in patients with early-to-moderate thinning (where follicles are miniaturized but still alive) rather than areas of complete baldness
The honest summary: PRP works for many patients, modestly but measurably. It's best viewed as a maintenance and enhancement tool — slowing thinning, improving the quality of existing hair, and potentially reactivating dormant (but not dead) follicles.
PRP for hair loss is supported by Level 2 evidence (multiple RCTs and meta-analyses showing benefit). It's not yet considered Level 1 (large-scale, multi-center definitive trials), but the trajectory of evidence is positive.
PRP as a Transplant Complement
Many surgeons now use PRP in conjunction with hair transplantation, either during the procedure (soaking grafts in PRP solution before placement) or as a post-transplant treatment series. The rationale: PRP's growth factors may improve graft survival rates, accelerate healing, and enhance the density of native hair surrounding the transplant zone.
Some studies have reported improved graft survival rates (up to 5% higher) when PRP is used during the transplant procedure, though the evidence isn't yet definitive. As a post-transplant maintenance therapy, PRP can help protect and thicken the native hair that medication alone might not fully address.
Treatment Protocol
| Phase | Frequency | Sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Treatment | Monthly | 3–4 sessions |
| Maintenance | Every 3–6 months | Ongoing |
| With Transplant | Day of procedure + 1 month + 3 months post-op | 3 sessions |
Pricing: Colombia vs US
Who Benefits Most from PRP
PRP is most effective for patients with early-to-moderate thinning who want to slow progression without medication, patients who can't tolerate finasteride or prefer a non-pharmaceutical approach, and as a complement to surgical transplantation. It's less effective for patients with long-standing, complete baldness where follicles have been dormant for years — these areas are better addressed with transplantation.
Interested in PRP Therapy?
Colombian clinics offer PRP as a standalone treatment or combined with hair transplant procedures. Get a free assessment to determine the best approach for your hair loss.
Learn About Your Options