PRP vs. Hair Transplants: What’s the Difference?
If you’re experiencing hair thinning or hair loss, you may have come across two common treatment options: PRP therapy and hair transplants. While both aim to improve hair density, they work in very different ways.
Understanding the difference can help you choose the option that best suits your goals, lifestyle, and stage of hair loss.
What Is a Hair Transplant?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure where hair follicles are taken from one area of the scalp (usually the back or sides) and transplanted into thinning or bald areas.
This treatment is most suitable for people with more advanced hair loss and sufficient donor hair. Results can be long-lasting, but the procedure is invasive and requires recovery time.
What Is PRP Therapy?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a non-surgical treatment that uses your own blood to stimulate natural hair growth.
A small blood sample is taken, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into areas of thinning hair. These platelets contain growth factors that help strengthen existing follicles, reduce shedding, and encourage healthier hair over time.
PRP works best for early to moderate hair thinning when follicles are still active.
Key Differences in Procedure
The main difference between PRP and hair transplants is how they work:
Hair transplants physically move hair follicles to new areas
PRP stimulates your existing follicles to grow stronger hair
PRP appointments typically take under an hour and don’t involve surgery. Hair transplants are more complex procedures that can take several hours and involve local anaesthetic and incisions.
Cost Comparison
Hair transplants usually involve a significant upfront cost, as they are surgical procedures performed in specialist clinics.
PRP tends to be more affordable, with treatment plans spread over several sessions. While PRP requires maintenance, it offers a lower-cost, non-invasive option for many people in earlier stages of hair loss.
Recovery Time and Downtime
PRP has minimal downtime. You may experience mild redness or tenderness for a day or two, but most clients return to normal activities the same day.
Hair transplants involve a longer recovery period, including swelling, scabbing, and visible healing. Time off work is often recommended, and full results can take many months.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between PRP and a hair transplant depends on several factors, including:
The stage of your hair loss
Your budget
Your comfort with surgery
How quickly you want to return to daily life
PRP is ideal for people with early thinning or shedding who want a natural, non-surgical approach. Hair transplants may be more suitable for advanced hair loss where follicles are no longer active.
A professional consultation is always the best way to determine the most appropriate option for your individual needs.