What is PRP? Platelet-rich plasma for hair and skin
PRP is plasma rich in platelets, prepared from your own blood by centrifugation and injected into the scalp or skin. For hair it usually starts with a few monthly sessions and the response is assessed over several months; results vary and the same effect cannot be expected in every type of hair loss.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is plasma rich in platelets, prepared from the person's own blood and applied to the target area. Used to support hair loss treatment and skin appearance, it aims to make use of the growth factors in platelets.
Its effect varies with the area treated, the preparation method and the individual; it should not be expected to give the same result for every type of hair loss or skin concern.
How does PRP work?
Blood is made of plasma, red and white cells and platelets; platelets also carry growth factors involved in tissue repair. The drawn blood is centrifuged, components separate, and platelet-rich plasma is collected and applied to the assessed area. PRP is not a stem cell treatment – it is a plasma treatment from your own blood.
What is PRP used for?
PRP may be considered for hair loss, skin appearance and some tissue repair, but evidence differs by use. Hair: in suitable patients, especially with genetic hair loss, it can support existing follicles and density; the cause of hair loss (iron deficiency, thyroid disease, rapid weight loss, scalp disease) must be found first. It does not replace needed medication, regrow fully lost follicles or replace a hair transplant. See PRP for hair. Skin: may support texture and fine lines, sometimes with microneedling or laser, but evidence is limited; it should not be promised to remove sagging, deep wrinkles or all pigmentation.
How is PRP done?
- Blood is drawn from the arm.
- It is centrifuged in system-specific tubes.
- Platelet-rich plasma is prepared.
- The area is cleaned; pain control is used if needed.
- PRP is applied with the planned technique.
Systems, platelet concentration and technique vary, so not all PRP is the same.
How many sessions are needed?
It depends on the goal, findings and response. For hair, several sessions about a month apart are often planned, then maintenance in suitable patients; there is no single schedule for everyone.
When are results seen?
Not immediately. Hair response may take a few months to judge; temporary swelling after skin treatment is not the result. Photos in similar light and angles help follow-up.
A 2024 meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials found that PRP can increase hair density compared with placebo in pattern hair loss; however, studies differ widely and this is not a promise of individual results (Kieling et al., An Bras Dermatol, 2024).
Does PRP have side effects?
Pain, tenderness, bruising, swelling and pinpoint bleeding at injection sites; rarely infection or tissue or nerve injury. Using your own plasma lowers allergy risk, but reactions to anaesthetics or antiseptics are possible. Do not stop blood thinners on your own to have PRP.
Who may not be suitable for PRP?
Active infection, significant low platelets or platelet dysfunction, bleeding disorders or severe anaemia may delay or rule out PRP; active cancer treatment needs specialist input; cosmetic treatments are usually postponed in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
PRP assessment and treatment in Ataşehir, Istanbul
The first step in planning PRP is finding the cause of hair loss or the skin concern. At Op. Dr. Salim Balin’s clinic in Ataşehir, tests such as thyroid function, ferritin, vitamin D and B12, current medicines and a scalp examination are assessed together; suitability, alternatives and follow-up are planned after this assessment. Details of hair treatment are on our hair PRP treatment in Ataşehir page.
We see patients from Ataşehir as well as Kadıköy, Ümraniye, Maltepe, Çekmeköy, Üsküdar and other districts of Istanbul.
Address: Atatürk Mahallesi, Ertuğrul Gazi Cad. No: 2H, Metropol İstanbul B Blok, Floor 18, No: 282, 34750 Ataşehir/Istanbul · Monday–Saturday 09:00–18:00 · +90 506 520 30 55 · Address and directions
The clinic is in Atatürk Mahallesi, Ataşehir (Metropol İstanbul Block B), close to the Barbaros, İçerenköy, Küçükbakkalköy, Kayışdağı, Yenisahra and Ferhatpaşa neighbourhoods and to Kozyatağı, Bostancı, Göztepe and Erenköy in Kadıköy. Patients from Sancaktepe and Kartal are also welcome.
Frequently asked questions
Does PRP hurt?
Brief pain or stinging during blood draw and injections; pain control can be used if needed.
Does PRP regrow hair?
In suitable patients it can support thickness and density of existing hair; it is not effective for every type and results are not guaranteed.
Is PRP permanent?
In genetic hair loss the process continues; follow-up, medical treatment and maintenance sessions may be needed.
Is PRP the same as mesotherapy?
No. PRP uses plasma from your own blood; mesotherapy is a technique for injecting various substances into the skin.
Can I return to daily life after PRP?
Most people can quickly, though pain, redness, swelling or bruising may occur.
What determines the price of PRP?
The preparation system, area, number of sessions and any combined procedures.
How many sessions of hair PRP are needed?
Hair PRP is usually planned as an initial course of 3–4 monthly sessions, followed by maintenance every few months depending on the response. Results are generally assessed at 3–6 months.
Where is PRP performed in Ataşehir, Istanbul?
PRP is performed at Op. Dr. Salim Balin’s clinic at Atatürk Mahallesi, Ertuğrul Gazi Cad. No: 2H, Metropol İstanbul B Blok, Floor 18, No: 282, 34750 Ataşehir/Istanbul. For appointments, call or WhatsApp +90 506 520 30 55.
Related guides
Sources and further reading
Kieling L et al. Is autologous platelet-rich plasma capable of increasing hair density in patients with androgenic alopecia? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. An Bras Dermatol. 2024 ↗Johns Hopkins Medicine: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment ↗American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Hair loss diagnosis and treatment ↗American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Male pattern hair loss treatment ↗This content is for general information. A personal treatment plan is decided after a doctor's assessment.
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