Journal · Treatment options compared · by Dr. Steven Goh

PRP vs Microneedling for Hair: Cost, Comfort, Downtime

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) uses a sample of your own blood, processed and injected into the scalp by a medical practitioner. Microneedling creates temporary micro-channels in the scalp to stimulate it and help serums reach the skin. PRP involves a blood draw and injections; microneedling is less invasive. Both are judged over months, and costs vary by provider.

Two popular scalp treatments

PRP and microneedling are two of the treatments readers most often compare. Both target the scalp rather than covering hair, and both are usually done as a series. They differ in how invasive they are, who can provide them and what a session feels like.

What PRP involves

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma.

• A small blood sample is taken from your arm.
• It is processed, usually in a centrifuge, to concentrate the platelet-rich part.
• The plasma is injected into areas of the scalp.

Because it involves a blood draw and injections, PRP should be carried out by a registered medical professional in a suitable clinical setting. The idea is that growth factors in platelets support the scalp. Results vary from person to person, so ask your practitioner what evidence they rely on and what is realistic for you.

What microneedling involves

Microneedling uses fine needles or micro-impulses to create temporary micro-channels in the scalp. This stimulates the skin and allows serums applied afterwards to reach it more effectively. It can be done in a centre or, in a gentler form, with a home roller. See our microneedling guide.

In Folli-Doc's Simulation & Stimulation treatment, microneedling is part of the stimulation phase, together with Folli-Doc's growth-activating compounds (PDGF, EGF and VEGF peptides, as described on the technology page) and red light therapy. Our article on combining microneedling with red light explains why.

Comparing PRP and microneedling

Comfort

PRP involves a needle in the arm and multiple scalp injections. Some people find the injections uncomfortable; numbing may be offered. Microneedling feels like light prickling or pressure, and is usually tolerated well, though sensitivity varies.

Downtime

Both typically allow you to return to normal life quickly. After PRP, the scalp may feel tender, and there may be minor swelling or bruising at injection sites. After microneedling, redness for a short time is common. Follow your provider's aftercare on washing, exercise and products.

Speed of results

Neither gives an instant change. Both are judged over months, with photos taken in consistent conditions. If you want an immediate fuller look, cosmetic hair simulation is a different approach; Folli-Doc's treatment combines simulation with stimulation in one session of about three hours.

Who provides it

PRP must be provided by medical professionals. Microneedling is offered by a wider range of providers, so check training and hygiene standards carefully.

Cost

Costs vary widely across the depending on the provider, location and number of sessions. We do not quote figures for other providers. Ask for:

• The price per session.
• How many sessions are recommended.
• The cost of maintenance sessions.
• What the total plan will cost.

Who should be cautious

Get medical advice first if you:

• Have a blood disorder or take blood-thinning medication (especially relevant to PRP).
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have a scalp infection, inflammation or broken skin.
• Have a history of keloid scarring.
• Have undiagnosed sudden or patchy hair loss.

Combining treatments

Some people use PRP and microneedling together, or alongside medicines such as minoxidil. If so, timing matters. Our article on minoxidil vs microneedling covers questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist. Tell each provider about everything you use.

Questions to ask any provider

• Who will carry out the treatment, and what are their qualifications?
• What exactly will be injected or applied to my scalp?
• How many sessions, and what is the total cost?
• What side effects should I expect?
• How will we judge whether it is working?

For a wider comparison, read our options compared guide.

Summary

PRP uses your own blood and requires injections by a medical professional; microneedling creates temporary micro-channels and is less invasive. Both are gradual and usually done as a series. Choose based on your comfort, medical history and a clear, written total cost, and see your doctor first if your hair loss is sudden or patchy.

Frequently asked questions