PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) are both autologous blood-derived therapies used to stimulate hair growth in androgenetic alopecia. PRP has been used in hair restoration for over a decade with a solid evidence base. PRF is the newer alternative that some practitioners argue offers better sustained growth factor release. This comparison breaks down the science, costs, protocols, and results of each treatment.
How PRP Works for Hair Loss
PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of your blood (typically 10 to 60 mL), spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the resulting platelet-rich plasma into areas of thinning scalp.
The PRP Process
- Blood is drawn from your arm
- The sample is spun in a centrifuge at high speed (typically 1,500 to 3,000 RPM)
- The platelet-rich layer is separated and collected
- An anticoagulant (usually sodium citrate or ACD-A) is added during processing
- The concentrated PRP is injected into the scalp at the areas of thinning
The concentrated platelets release growth factors including PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), EGF (epidermal growth factor), and TGF-beta (transforming growth factor beta). These signals stimulate dormant follicles, increase blood supply to the scalp, and extend the anagen (growth) phase of hair.
Clinical studies show PRP can increase hair density by 30 to 40% in responding patients.
How PRF Works for Hair Loss
PRF is processed differently from PRP. The key distinction is that PRF does not use an anticoagulant, which allows a natural fibrin matrix to form around the platelets.
The PRF Process
- Blood is drawn from your arm
- The sample is spun at a lower speed (approximately 700 RPM) with no anticoagulant added
- A fibrin clot forms naturally, trapping platelets and white blood cells
- The fibrin matrix is collected and either injected or applied topically
- Growth factors release slowly from the fibrin scaffold over 7 to 14 days
This slow-release mechanism is the primary theoretical advantage of PRF. Rather than dumping all growth factors at once (as PRP does), the fibrin matrix acts as a natural scaffold that meters out the growth signals over a longer period.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | PRP | PRF |
|---|---|---|
| Centrifuge speed | 1,500-3,000 RPM | ~700 RPM |
| Anticoagulant used | Yes | No |
| Growth factor release | Rapid (hours) | Sustained (7-14 days) |
| White blood cells included | Varies by protocol | Yes, in higher concentration |
| Cost per session | $500-$2,000 | $600-$2,500 |
| Sessions needed (initial) | 3-4 sessions | 3-4 sessions |
| Session spacing | Every 4-6 weeks | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Maintenance frequency | Every 3-6 months | Every 3-6 months |
| Published hair loss studies | 50+ clinical studies | Fewer than 15 studies |
| FDA status | Not specifically approved for hair loss | Not specifically approved for hair loss |
| Pain level | Moderate (numbing used) | Moderate (numbing used) |
| Session duration | 45-90 minutes | 45-90 minutes |
| Recovery time | None to minimal | None to minimal |
What the Evidence Shows
PRP Evidence
PRP has the larger body of clinical evidence for androgenetic alopecia. A 2019 meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials found that PRP significantly increased hair density and hair diameter compared to placebo. The treatment has been shown to increase hair count by an average of 30 to 40% in responding patients over 3 to 6 months.
Key findings from PRP research:
- Response rates range from 60 to 80% of treated patients
- Best results occur in patients with early to moderate hair loss (Norwood 2 through 4)
- Results begin to appear 2 to 3 months after the initial series
- Maintenance sessions are necessary to sustain results
- Combining PRP with finasteride produces better outcomes than either treatment alone
PRF Evidence
PRF research for hair loss is newer and more limited. The existing studies suggest PRF may perform similarly to or slightly better than PRP. A 2023 comparative study found PRF produced slightly greater improvements in hair density at 6 months compared to PRP, but the difference was modest.
Key findings from PRF research:
- Limited head-to-head comparisons with PRP
- Theoretical advantage of sustained growth factor release is supported by in-vitro studies
- Higher concentration of leukocytes (white blood cells) may enhance the anti-inflammatory effect
- The absence of anticoagulant means a more natural biological preparation
- Longer-term studies (beyond 12 months) are still needed
Cost Analysis Over 12 Months
| Cost Component | PRP Protocol | PRF Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Initial series (4 sessions) | $2,000-$8,000 | $2,400-$10,000 |
| Maintenance (2-3 sessions) | $1,000-$6,000 | $1,200-$7,500 |
| Total first year | $3,000-$14,000 | $3,600-$17,500 |
Both PRP and PRF are significantly more expensive than FDA-approved medications. Finasteride costs $10 to $30 per month and halts further loss in 80-90% of users while producing regrowth in 65%. Minoxidil costs $15 to $50 per month with 40-60% achieving moderate regrowth. Platelet therapies are best understood as supplementary treatments rather than replacements for these proven medications.
Who Should Consider PRP or PRF?
Platelet therapies work best for specific patient profiles.
Good Candidates
- Norwood 2 through 4 with active miniaturization
- Already on finasteride and/or minoxidil who want additional improvement
- Planning a hair transplant and want to optimize the scalp environment before surgery
- Post-transplant patients looking to improve graft survival and native hair health
- Those who cannot tolerate finasteride and want a non-pharmaceutical boost alongside minoxidil
Poor Candidates
- Norwood 6 or 7 with fully miniaturized follicles (no viable follicles left to stimulate)
- Those expecting PRP/PRF to replace medication entirely
- Patients with blood disorders or platelet dysfunction
- Those on blood thinners (may affect platelet function)
Which Should You Choose?
If evidence strength is your priority, PRP has a much larger body of published research supporting its use. If the theoretical advantage of sustained growth factor release appeals to you and cost is less of a concern, PRF is a reasonable alternative that may offer incremental benefits.
Neither treatment addresses the root causes of androgenetic alopecia the way finasteride does. Both are best positioned as add-on therapies within a comprehensive treatment plan.
Practical Decision Framework
| Your Situation | Recommended Choice |
|---|---|
| Want the most proven option | PRP |
| Budget is tight | PRP (slightly lower cost) |
| Your clinic only offers one option | Whichever they offer (both are reasonable) |
| You want the latest approach | PRF |
| Pre-transplant optimization | Either (discuss with your surgeon) |
Next Steps
Before investing in platelet therapy, know your current hair loss stage and whether you are already maximizing the benefit from proven treatments. Many patients see significant improvement from finasteride and minoxidil alone without needing PRP or PRF.
Find out where your hair loss stands. Get a free AI-powered hair assessment at myhairline.ai/analyze to identify your Norwood stage and explore whether platelet therapy, medication, or surgical options are the right fit.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a board-certified dermatologist or hair restoration specialist before starting any treatment.