PRP vs. PRF for Hair Loss

PRP vs. PRF: Which is Better for Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a common issue that affects millions of people around the world. There are many different treatments available to help with hair loss, including PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) treatments. In this article, we will compare these two treatments to help you decide which one may be right for you.

What is PRP?

PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is a treatment that uses the patient’s own blood to stimulate hair growth. To create the PRP, a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient and placed in a centrifuge, which separates the red blood cells from the plasma. The plasma, which is rich in platelets and growth factors, is then injected into the scalp. The growth factors in the plasma help to stimulate the hair follicles, leading to increased hair growth.

What is PRF?

PRF, or platelet-rich fibrin, is similar to PRP but is created using a different process. Instead of separating the plasma from the red blood cells, the whole blood is placed in a special tube that is spun in a centrifuge. This process creates a gel-like substance that contains both plasma and fibrin, which is then injected into the scalp. The fibrin helps to create a scaffold that supports the growth of new cells, including hair follicles.

How do PRP and PRF compare?

There are several key differences between PRP and PRF treatments for hair loss. One of the main differences is the way the treatments are created. As mentioned above, PRP is created by separating the plasma from the red blood cells, while PRF is created using the whole blood.

Another difference is the concentration of platelets in the treatments. Because PRP is created using only the plasma, it has a higher concentration of platelets than PRF. This means that PRP may be more effective at stimulating hair growth than PRF.

However, PRF has the added benefit of containing fibrin, which provides a scaffold for new cell growth. This may make PRF more effective at supporting the growth of new hair follicles.

Which treatment is right for me?

Deciding which treatment is right for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a treatment that has a high concentration of platelets and is effective at stimulating hair growth, PRP may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for a treatment that also provides support for new cell growth, PRF may be a better option.

It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment for hair loss. They can help you determine which treatment is best for you and provide guidance on how to get the most out of your chosen treatment.

What types of alopecia can PRP or PRF help treat?

PRP and PRF may be suitable for many non-scarring forms of alopecia, including androgenetic alopecia, male and female pattern hair loss, diffuse thinning, telogen effluvium, and alopecia areata where appropriate. These treatments are generally most useful when there are still active hair follicles in the affected area.

The main exception is scarring alopecia, where inflammation or scarring can permanently damage the follicles. In these cases, PRP or PRF may not be the right treatment pathway, and careful assessment is important before starting treatment.

Your practitioner can assess your scalp, hair-loss pattern, medical history, and treatment goals before recommending PRP, PRF, KeraLase, or another suitable option.

How many sessions are usually needed?

Most PRP and PRF hair treatment plans involve a course of sessions spaced several weeks apart. A common starting point is 3–6 sessions, although the exact number will depend on the type of hair loss, the condition of the scalp, the treatment selected, and how the hair responds.

Hair regrowth takes time, so progress is usually assessed over several months rather than after one appointment. Many patients look for changes such as reduced shedding, improved hair texture, stronger hair quality, and increased density.

After the initial course, maintenance sessions may be recommended every 6–12 months to help support ongoing results.

When can you expect to see results?

PRP and PRF hair treatments work gradually by supporting the natural hair-growth cycle. Visible changes usually develop over several months rather than immediately after treatment.

Many patients begin to notice reduced shedding, improved hair texture, stronger hair quality, or increased density after completing their initial course of treatments. The timeline can vary depending on the cause of hair loss, how long thinning has been present, scalp health, age, medical factors, and treatment consistency.

This is why a realistic treatment plan matters. PRP and PRF are not overnight treatments, but they can be valuable options for patients looking to improve hair density and hair quality over time.

What do the clinical studies show?

Several clinical studies have shown that PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is effective in promoting hair growth in people with androgenetic alopecia (AGA), also known as male or female pattern hair loss. These studies have generally found that PRP treatments result in an increase in hair density and thickness, as well as a decrease in hair loss. 

PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) has also been studied for its potential use in the treatment of hair loss, but there is much less evidence available on its effectiveness. One small study found that PRF injections may be effective in promoting hair growth in people with AGA, but the results were not statistically significant and more research is needed to confirm these findings.

At Advanced Dermatology, we have been treating Australian patients since 2006, with more than 100,000 treatments performed across our clinics. PRP and PRF hair treatments are performed by qualified medical practitioners in a medical-grade clinical setting. Every patient begins with a consultation, so we can assess the type of hair loss, scalp condition, treatment history, and suitability before recommending a treatment plan.

Cost, side effects and recovery

The cost of PRP or PRF hair treatment can vary depending on the treatment type, number of sessions, clinic location, and whether a treatment package is recommended. In Australia, PRP and PRF treatments are usually priced per session or as a course, as hair regrowth treatment typically requires multiple sessions.

Side effects are usually mild and temporary when treatment is performed in appropriate clinical conditions. These may include scalp tenderness, redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, bruising, or a mild headache. More serious complications are uncommon, but any injectable treatment carries some risk, including infection if sterile technique is not followed.

Recovery is usually straightforward, with minimal downtime. Most patients can return to normal activities soon after treatment, although your clinician may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, hot showers, direct sun exposure on the scalp, and harsh styling products for the first day or two.

Choosing the Right Hair Loss Treatment

PRP and PRF are both non-surgical treatment options that may help support natural hair regrowth in suitable patients. PRP is often valued for its concentration of platelets and growth factors, while PRF offers the added benefit of fibrin, which may help hold growth factors at the treatment area for longer.

The right treatment depends on the type of hair loss, scalp condition, treatment history and individual goals. A consultation is the best way to determine whether PRP, PRF, KeraLase or another hair-loss treatment pathway is most appropriate.

Discover whether PRP or PRF may be suitable for your type of hair loss. Learn more about your options at your nearest Advanced Dermatology hair loss clinic in Sydney, Bondi, Brisbane or the Gold Coast.