Hair loss affects millions of men and women every year—and with advances in cosmetic science, there’s no shortage of ways to address it. But if you’ve started researching your options, you’ve probably come across two very different treatments: PRP therapy and hair transplants. So, what’s the actual difference between PRP and a hair transplant? And how do you know which one is right for your hair, your goals, and your lifestyle?
Here’s a breakdown of both treatments—how they work, who they’re suited for, and what results you can realistically expect.
What Is PRP Therapy?
PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. It’s a non-surgical treatment that uses your body’s own healing factors to stimulate hair growth. The process involves:
- Drawing a small amount of your blood
- Spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets
- Injecting the platelet-rich plasma into areas of the scalp affected by thinning
The idea is that the growth factors in your plasma can awaken dormant hair follicles and improve blood flow to the scalp, potentially improving hair density and slowing the progression of hair loss.
PRP treatments are usually done in a series—often 3–4 sessions spaced a month apart, followed by maintenance treatments every few months.
What Is a Hair Transplant?
A hair transplant is a surgical procedure in which healthy hair follicles are harvested from one part of your scalp (usually the back or sides) and transplanted into areas where hair is thinning or has been lost.
There are two main types:
- FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation): A strip of scalp is removed and dissected into grafts
- FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction): Individual follicles are removed one by one using a small punch tool (the more modern and less invasive method)
Recovery time depends on the method used, but most people return to work within a few days. Full results typically become visible within 6–12 months as the transplanted hairs go through a natural growth cycle.
Key Differences Between PRP and Hair Transplants
The difference between PRP and a hair transplant comes down to three main factors: invasiveness, results, and suitability.
| Feature | PRP Therapy | Hair Transplant |
| Procedure Type | Non-surgical injections | Surgical grafting |
| Downtime | Minimal – return to routine same day | A few days of recovery |
| Visible Results | Gradual improvement over months | Permanent regrowth in treated areas |
| Ideal For | Early thinning or mild hair loss | Moderate to advanced hair loss |
| Cost | Lower upfront, recurring maintenance | Higher upfront, long-term value |
| Pain/Discomfort | Mild soreness at injection sites | Local anaesthetic, some swelling |
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose PRP If:
- You’ve just started noticing thinning, especially at the crown or parting
- You want a natural, non-invasive solution
- You’re looking to improve hair quality, not just quantity
- You’re not ready for surgery or don’t yet need it
PRP is often used preventatively or alongside other treatments (such as minoxidil) to boost overall hair health.
Choose a Hair Transplant If:
- You have clear areas of baldness or a receding hairline
- You’re looking for permanent coverage in specific regions
- You want a one-time, long-term solution
- You’ve already tried non-surgical treatments with limited success
Many clinics offer combination approaches, where PRP is used post-transplant to support healing and encourage regrowth.
What to Expect from Each
It’s important to have realistic expectations. PRP can boost thickness and slow loss, but it won’t regrow hair where follicles are completely inactive. Hair transplants, meanwhile, are permanent—but they don’t prevent future loss in untreated areas, so ongoing care is still important.
Both treatments are safe when performed by experienced professionals, but results depend heavily on the cause of your hair loss, your age, your genetics, and your commitment to aftercare.
Final Thoughts
If you’re exploring hair restoration options, understanding the difference between PRP and a hair transplant is the first step to finding the right fit. PRP offers a less invasive route for those in the early stages of thinning, while hair transplants provide long-term results for more advanced hair loss.
A consultation with a trusted specialist can help you assess your current condition and build a personalised treatment plan. The goal? Natural-looking results that restore not just your hair, but your confidence.
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