How Long Does PRP Hair Treatment Last?
Hair loss and thinning hair are common conditions that affect as many as 50 million men and 30 million women in their lifetime. Hair loss can occur for many reasons, ranging from genetic conditions like androgenetic alopecia (also known as androgenic alopecia, male pattern baldness, or female pattern baldness), autoimmune disorders like alopecia areata, acute stressful events like telogen effluvium, medications, or hormone fluctuations. Regardless of the cause of hair loss, noticing a decrease in hair thickness and hair density on various areas of the scalp can be extremely distressing for patients, leading to low self-esteem and symptoms of depression. With many treatment options on the market, each with varying levels of effectiveness, it can be difficult to determine how best to treat and prevent hair loss. That is why the best first step in developing a hair-loss treatment plan is to seek out a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, who can recommend the best hair rejuvenation treatment. Dr. Green often uses platelet-rich plasma injections to promote new hair growth.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy — also known as PRP therapy — uses the growth factors found in the patient’s own blood to heal hair follicles, improve hair density, and trigger new hair growth. Often used medically for wound healing, skin rejuvenation, and addressing musculoskeletal injuries, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is now being used to address hair loss and hair thinning conditions, such as androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. PRP has been studied in clinical trials and is widely used in dermatology to address hair thinning and hair loss, with promising results for hair regrowth. PRP can also be paired with other hair-loss treatments to improve overall results, including medications such as finasteride and minoxidil, as well as microneedling. With a low risk of side effects and demonstrably positive results, PRP injections have become an excellent treatment option for patients concerned with hair loss.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing advanced non-surgical treatments for hair loss and thinning, including platelet-rich plasma therapy. She was among the first dermatologists in New York City to incorporate PRP hair restoration treatments into her practice, helping patients address thinning hair with clinically supported techniques. Dr. Green takes a personalized, holistic approach to hair restoration, carefully evaluating hair loss patterns, scalp health, and contributing factors to create customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs and goals. She is consistently ranked among New York City’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her expertise and dedication to patient care. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will work with you to develop an individualized hair restoration plan designed to support healthier, fuller-looking hair over time.
What are the different types of hair loss?
Hair loss can result from many factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, autoimmune conditions, physical or emotional stress, medications, and underlying medical conditions. One of the most common types of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern hair loss. This condition is influenced by androgens, which gradually shorten the hair growth cycle and weaken hair follicles. In men, androgenetic alopecia commonly presents as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. In contrast, in women, it typically manifests as diffuse thinning of the crown with widening of the central part.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles, causing sudden hair loss that often appears as round or oval patches on the scalp. The severity and pattern of hair loss can vary, and some patients may experience spontaneous regrowth, while others require treatment to stimulate hair follicles and reduce ongoing shedding. Telogen effluvium is another common form of hair loss, often triggered by physical or emotional stress, illness, surgery, hormonal changes, or significant life events. This condition causes a large number of hair follicles to enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle simultaneously, resulting in increased shedding that typically becomes noticeable after several months.
Traction alopecia results from repeated tension on hair shafts, as seen with hairstyles such as tight ponytails, braids, or extensions. Over time, constant pulling can damage hair follicles and lead to thinning, particularly along the hairline and temples. Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a group of conditions in which inflammation damages hair follicles and replaces them with scar tissue, leading to permanent hair loss if not addressed early. Because scarring alopecia requires prompt medical evaluation, early diagnosis by a dermatologist is especially important.
Hair loss can occur for many reasons, and identifying the underlying cause is essential to determining the most appropriate treatment plan. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, will evaluate hair loss patterns, scalp health, and medical history to determine the cause of thinning and recommend personalized treatment options based on each patient’s needs.
What is PRP treatment for hair restoration?
PRP treatment uses autologous plasma—plasma drawn from the patient’s own blood—centrifuged to separate the high-platelet-count plasma from red blood cells. When injected into the treatment area, PRP therapy helps promote natural healing, assist with blood clotting, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the growth of new cells, improving overall health. Because PRP uses the patient’s own blood, the risk of an allergic reaction is very low, making it a safe and effective treatment option for a variety of conditions and medical concerns, including skin rejuvenation, post-surgical or musculoskeletal healing, and hair loss.
How PRP works on hair
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a highly effective treatment for patients experiencing hair thinning or hair loss due to conditions such as androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder that triggers hair loss). Hair growth occurs in three phases: the growth phase (anagen), the resting phase (telogen), and the hair shedding phase. Typically, hair growth lasts 2-6 years before entering the resting phase and eventually shedding, which is a very natural process. However, some hair-loss conditions, such as androgenic alopecia, shorten the hair growth phase significantly, resulting in shorter, thinner new hair growth. PRP injections help regrow hair by lengthening the hair-growing phase and strengthening hair follicles, resulting in thicker hair shafts, higher hair density, and healthier hair follicles.
PRP hair restoration works in many areas to improve hair health and the healing process. When injected into the scalp, the high concentration of platelets helps activate growth factors at and around the injection site, improving circulation in the treatment area and triggering the healing of damaged and dormant hair follicles. As a result, PRP therapy can strengthen hair follicles in the treatment area and thicken hair shafts, thereby increasing hair density and resulting in fuller hair. Additionally, as damaged hair follicles heal, the number of hairs increases as well, as inactive hair follicles become reactivated. PRP therapy can be used on its own or in combination with other treatment options, such as finasteride, minoxidil, hair transplant, and microneedling.
How many PRP sessions are needed for hair?
The first step in PRP treatment is to schedule an initial consultation with an expert board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, to determine the underlying cause of your hair loss. Once Dr. Green has examined the treatment area, discussed any medical conditions, and determined the cause of the hair loss, she will develop a treatment plan tailored to you. If PRP is the best option, the treatment process begins with a blood draw, during which a patient’s blood is placed in a centrifuge to separate into three layers: red blood cells, platelet-poor plasma, and platelet-rich plasma. Before injecting the high-concentration platelet-rich plasma into the treatment site, Dr. Green will apply topical anesthesia approximately 1 hour prior to the injections to minimize potential discomfort. The injections themselves are quick to perform, and the whole treatment process generally takes less than 30 minutes. There is no downtime following the treatment, so patients can immediately return to their regularly scheduled activities.
Most patients will require multiple treatment sessions to achieve optimal results with platelet-rich plasma therapy. The time to see the full results of the treatment will depend on the severity of hair loss at the treatment site and each patient’s unique aesthetic goals. Dr. Green typically recommends an initial series of 4 PRP treatment sessions, spaced approximately 1 month apart. After completing the initial series, patients return for a follow-up visit about three months later so Dr. Green can evaluate hair growth, shedding, and overall response to treatment. This follow-up allows adjustments to be made based on how the scalp and hair follicles are responding. Optimal treatment results take time, as PRP injections leverage the body’s natural healing process to improve hair growth.
Is one PRP session enough for hair?
One PRP treatment session is not enough to achieve optimal or lasting improvement for most patients experiencing hair loss or hair thinning. PRP supports hair follicles throughout the natural hair growth cycle, which includes phases of growth, rest, and shedding. Because hair naturally sheds as part of a normal cycle, multiple PRP treatments are needed to strengthen follicles and support healthier regrowth as the cycle progresses. Most patients benefit from a series of PRP sessions that build on one another, allowing the scalp and hair follicles to respond to treatment over time. The number of treatments needed varies based on the severity of hair loss, the underlying cause, and the hair follicles’ response to PRP. PRP sessions can be adjusted over time to meet each patient’s individual needs. To find out how many treatment sessions you will need for the best results, schedule your consultation with Dr. Green.
Is PRP hair treatment permanent?
One common question patients ask is, “Are PRP hair results permanent?” PRP is a long-lasting treatment option for hair regrowth, but it is not a permanent solution. The duration of treatment varies from person to person, often depending on the severity of the hair-loss condition and the patient’s plasma platelet concentration. However, the treatment results last up to 12 months. Dr. Green typically recommends that patients schedule touch-up appointments to maintain the treatment results.
How long does PRP hair treatment last?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is a highly effective treatment for combating hair loss, hair thinning, and a receding hairline. The treatment works by extracting a sample of the patient’s own blood and using a centrifuge to separate the plasma from the white and red blood cells. The plasma from our blood draw, when distilled, has a high concentration of growth factors that help regulate proteins, promote cell growth, and stimulate hair growth. Many researchers have begun examining the effects of PRP on hair restoration and have found results extremely promising, demonstrating that PRP injections improve blood flow to the treatment area, strengthen and thicken hair follicles, and increase hair density. Another benefit of PRP is that there is no downtime required after the treatment. Most patients will require multiple treatment sessions for optimal PRP results. After the initial treatment series and follow-up evaluation, Dr. Green determines a personalized maintenance schedule based on the patient’s degree of hair loss and response to treatment. Maintenance sessions may be recommended every three months, six months, or once per year, depending on individual needs.
How long does PRP last for hair, female/male?
PRP for hair loss has long-lasting results but typically requires maintenance treatments after the initial treatment. The PRP results can last up to 18 months for both men and women after the initial round of injection treatments. Maintenance treatments are individualized and scheduled based on the severity of hair loss and the hair’s response to PRP. At your follow-up appointment with Dr. Green, her office will help to schedule the regular maintenance treatments to keep your hair growth full and strong. Individual responses to PRP treatment may vary depending on the extent of hair loss and the concentration of PRP in the blood supply.
PRP hair: How long does it take to see results?
Dr. Green typically recommends an initial series of four PRP treatment sessions, spaced about one month apart, to allow the scalp and hair follicles to respond. Some patients may notice reduced hair shedding early, while visible improvements in hair thickness and density develop more gradually over the following months. After completing the initial series, patients return for additional PRP treatments, during which Dr. Green evaluates hair growth and scalp health. In some cases, patients with more advanced or ongoing hair loss may require additional treatments beyond the initial four sessions. The timing of future treatments and maintenance sessions is determined by Dr. Green based on the severity of hair loss and the hair follicles’ response. Follow-up schedules vary by patient and may range from every few months to less frequently, depending on individual needs.
How long after PRP can I wash my hair?
Patients often wonder, “How long to wash hair after PRP?” After completion of the PRP injections, you may feel some soreness and/or discomfort at the injection sites – these are common side effects. There is minimal downtime; it’s recommended not exercise the day of treatment; however, you can resume the following day. Avoid alcohol and smoking (or any smoky areas) for at least the next 3 days, as it can impact the healing process. Patients should avoid washing their hair on the day of treatment and may gently shampoo the scalp the following day.
How long after PRP can I dye my hair?
After PRP treatment, the scalp may be sensitive as hair follicles respond to the injections and begin healing. Dr. Green advises waiting one week after a PRP session before dyeing hair. Hair dye, bleach, and chemical treatments can irritate the scalp and may interfere with recovery during this early period. Allowing the scalp time to heal supports the full benefits of PRP therapy and reduces the risk of irritation or discomfort. Once the scalp has recovered and any sensitivity has subsided, patients can safely resume hair coloring as part of their normal hair care routine.
How long after PRP does hair grow?
The first round of PRP injections for hair loss prevention and scalp rejuvenation typically involves four sessions, spaced 4 weeks apart. Multiple injections are necessary for optimal results, and to maintain the treatment’s effects, patients often require a maintenance treatment series once a year. It can take several months for the full effects of the treatment to be apparent after each round. Most patients will experience natural hair thickening and regrowth in the weeks following the procedure. Visible improvement in hair thickness and density develops gradually over time as the hair follicles strengthen and respond to treatment.
PRP hair loss: How long does it last?
Many patients ask, “PRP hair: How long does it last?” PRP results are long-lasting, with effects visible for up to 18 months. Dr. Green recommends that patients schedule annual maintenance sessions to maintain the effects of the treatment. PRP is best for patients experiencing early-stage hair loss. Patients with more advanced hair loss, balding, or severely damaged hair follicles may benefit from a surgical procedure, such as a hair transplant. To find out which treatment is the best option for you, schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Green today.
Are PRP hair results permanent? How to get started with PRP hair treatment today
Hair loss and hair thinning are common conditions that affect millions of men and women throughout their lifetimes. As hair is often a major part of one’s identity, the loss of hair can be very distressing. While there are many hair loss treatment options available, it is difficult to tell which are effective and what to try. The best first step is to consult with an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, who will examine the treatment area to determine the root cause of the hair loss. Some patients, such as those with androgenic alopecia, may benefit from PRP injections for new hair growth. PRP injections are highly effective at thickening the hair shaft, healing damaged follicles, and lengthening the hair growth phase, resulting in denser, thicker hair. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Green to get started with long-lasting hair regrowth solutions.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist in NYC with over 25 years of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans tailored to her patients’ unique concerns and aesthetic goals. She is consistently recognized by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Please call us at 212-535-3088 or email our New York City-based office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michele Green to find out if PRP injections are right for you.