PRP gets mentioned a lot in skin and hair treatment menus, but what it actually involves is less well understood than the acronym suggests. Here’s a straightforward explanation of what’s really happening.
What PRP Actually Is
Platelet-Rich Plasma is drawn from your own blood using a small sample, then processed in a centrifuge that separates and concentrates the platelets, the component responsible for triggering your body’s natural healing response. That concentrated plasma is then reintroduced into the treatment area, whether that’s the skin or the scalp. Because it comes from your own blood, there’s no risk of allergic reaction to the treatment itself.
For Skin
When reintroduced into facial skin, PRP stimulates natural collagen production, supporting rejuvenation from within rather than just treating the surface. It’s often combined with micro-needling, since the micro-channels created help the plasma penetrate more effectively.
For Hair
On the scalp, PRP works by activating dormant or weakened hair follicles, encouraging them back into an active growth phase. It’s most effective for early-stage thinning, where follicles are still present but under-active, rather than areas with long-term, complete hair loss.
What It’s Not
PRP isn’t an instant fix. Because it works with your body’s own healing process rather than delivering an external ingredient, results build gradually, early changes are often visible from 4 to 6 weeks, with continued improvement across a course of sessions. It’s also not a substitute for addressing other underlying causes of hair thinning, like hormonal or nutritional factors, which is exactly why a proper consultation matters before starting.
If PRP sounds like it might fit your skin or hair goals, it’s worth a consultation to check whether you’re a good candidate before committing to a course.