PRP hair treatment combined with microneedling has become an increasingly popular non-surgical option for Australians addressing hair loss and hair thinning. PRP has a growing evidence base and is showing positive results for many common hair and skin conditions in some patients. Hair and Skin Science works with many Australians each year, and PRP microneedling is among the treatments we provide.
This post explains what PRP is, how microneedling works, and how the two are used together in hair loss treatment.
What is PRP?
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is a well-studied treatment derived from your own blood. It has been used in sports medicine and orthopaedics and has been applied more recently to cosmetic and hair loss treatments.
Blood contains stem cells, white blood cells, growth factors, and other components that support the body’s natural healing processes. When an injury occurs, the body increases blood flow to the site to support repair. PRP treatments use this same principle. Blood plasma containing white blood cells and growth factors is separated from red blood cells and concentrated into a PRP solution. That solution is injected into the scalp to support follicle health and encourage hair regrowth in some patients.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling uses a pen-like device or roller with tiny needles to create micro-perforations in the skin, prompting the body to direct blood to the area to support repair. The nutrients in that blood may help skin cells regenerate and support collagen production.
When used for hair treatment, the skin around the hair follicles is stimulated by the microneedler, encouraging circulation and cellular activity in the area.
PRP microneedling hair treatment
PRP and microneedling complement each other well for hair loss treatment. Both work with the body’s own healing processes, and combining them allows the PRP solution to be delivered deeper into the scalp through the micro-channels created by the needles.
For those seeking a non-surgical option, PRP microneedling offers a different approach to many conventional hair loss treatments. Individual outcomes vary, and a consultation is needed to determine whether this approach is appropriate for your situation.
What does a PRP hair treatment appointment involve?
You will be made comfortable at one of our clinics across Australia. We then draw a small amount of blood — around 10–20ml, similar to a standard blood test. The blood is passed through a medical centrifuge to separate the plasma we need. The PRP solution is loaded into the microneedler and applied to the affected area on the scalp. Following treatment, we apply a red LED light to the treated area, which may help minimise swelling and reduce the risk of infection.
Once complete, you are free to go about your day.
How long does an appointment take?
A PRP hair treatment appointment typically takes less than an hour. A standard course of treatment usually includes 3–4 appointments spread over a period of months. Your first appointment will include a thorough consultation where we discuss your situation, health history, and realistic expectations for treatment.
What conditions can PRP hair treatment address?
PRP hair treatment is used as a non-surgical option for many causes of hair loss. It may help address:
- Male and female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia)
- Stress-related hair loss
- Hair thinning
- Receding hairline
- Patchy hair loss
- Patchy beard growth
Individual responses vary and PRP is not appropriate for all hair loss conditions. A consultation will allow our practitioners to advise on suitability.
How long does it take to see results?
How long it takes for changes to become noticeable depends on the condition being treated, its severity, your age, overall health, and your individual healing rate. This is a medical treatment, and responses differ between patients.
Many patients who undergo PRP treatment at Hair and Skin Science report beginning to notice changes somewhere between 6–12 weeks after commencing a course of treatment. Individual results vary, and it is not possible to predict outcomes without a consultation.
Is downtime or aftercare required?
Most patients experience minimal downtime following PRP microneedling hair treatment. The microneedler is precisely controlled and most patients leave the clinic with minimal visible signs of treatment.
You may experience mild redness or tingling at the treatment site, which typically resolves quickly. Aftercare is straightforward: use a gentle moisturiser, keep the treated area out of direct sunlight for 24–48 hours, minimise strenuous exercise for a day, and avoid chemical shampoos for a short period. Your practitioner will provide detailed aftercare guidance at your appointment.
PRP hair treatment at Hair and Skin Science
Hair and Skin Science has clinics across Australia including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Perth, Canberra, and Adelaide. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation and discuss whether PRP microneedling is appropriate for your hair loss concerns.
