Hair PRP Explained: Why Doctors Recommend It for Early Hair Loss
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In 2022, Dutch journalist and TV presenter Tim Hofman openly shared his struggle with early hair thinning in an interview on BNNVARA. He talked about noticing more hair on his pillow and in the shower drain. At first, he ignored it. But after months, he realized his hairline was changing.
Like many people, Tim felt uncomfortable talking about it. Hair loss felt personal. After consulting a dermatologist, he learned about PRP therapy. Instead of rushing into surgery, he chose a natural option first.
His story reflects what thousands of men and women in the Netherlands experience every year. Early hair loss often starts quietly. And if treated early, it can often be slowed down or even improved.
This is where hair PRP comes in.
What Is Hair PRP?
Hair PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy for hair restoration. It is a medical treatment that uses your own blood to stimulate hair growth.
Here is how it works in simple terms:
A doctor takes a small amount of your blood
The blood is placed in a machine that separates plasma
This plasma is rich in platelets and growth factors
The doctor injects it into your scalp
These growth factors help wake up weak hair follicles and improve blood flow.
Because the plasma comes from your own body, the risk of allergy is very low.
Why Doctors Recommend Hair PRP for Early Hair Loss
Doctors usually recommend PRP when hair loss is still in the early stages. That is because the follicles are still alive, just weak.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, early treatment gives better long-term results in most hair loss cases.
PRP works best when:
Hair is thinning but not completely gone
Bald patches are small
Hair follicles are still active
Once follicles die, PRP cannot bring them back. That is why timing matters.
Many clinics including leading aesthetic centers in Europe, now recommend PRP as a first-line treatment before surgery.
How Effective Is Hair PRP? (Facts and Data)
A 2023 review in Dermatologic Surgery Journal analyzed more than 30 clinical studies. The results showed:
70% to 80% of patients saw visible improvement
Hair thickness increased by 25% to 35%
Best results appeared after 3 to 6 months
Another study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that PRP significantly improved hair density compared to untreated groups.
According to industry research and medical reports, including this detailed article on PRP injections and hair growth trends in 2026, PRP is becoming one of the most trusted natural treatments worldwide.
These results are based on years of clinical testing and hours of research by medical experts.
Who Is the Right Candidate for PRP?
PRP is not for everyone. Doctors usually recommend it for:
Good Candidates
Men with early male pattern baldness
Women with thinning hair
People with stress-related hair loss
Patients after hair transplant surgery
People with weak or slow hair growth
Not Ideal For
Advanced baldness
Autoimmune hair diseases
Blood disorders
Severe scalp infections
That is why consultation is important before starting treatment.
Step-by-Step: How the PRP Procedure Works
Understanding the process reduces fear and confusion.
Here is what happens during a typical session:
1. Consultation
The doctor examines your scalp and medical history. Photos may be taken for comparison.
2. Blood Collection
A small blood sample is taken, similar to a normal blood test.
3. Plasma Separation
The blood is placed in a centrifuge for about 10 minutes. This separates the platelets.
4. Scalp Preparation
The scalp is cleaned. A mild numbing cream may be applied.
5. Injection
The PRP is injected into thinning areas using fine needles.
6. Recovery
You can usually go home the same day. No hospital stay is needed.
The full session takes around 45 to 60 minutes.
Benefits of Hair PRP Treatment
Doctors recommend PRP because it offers several practical benefits.
Natural Treatment
Since it uses your own blood, there are no chemicals or artificial substances.
No Surgery
No cuts. No stitches. No scars.
Minimal Downtime
Most people return to work the same day.
Supports Existing Hair
PRP strengthens current hair and slows future loss.
Works with Other Treatments
PRP can be combined with minoxidil, supplements or hair transplants.
Possible Side Effects
PRP is considered safe but mild side effects can happen.
These may include:
Temporary redness
Mild swelling
Slight headache
Tender scalp
These usually disappear within 24 to 48 hours.
Serious complications are extremely rare when done by trained doctors.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Most doctors recommend:
3 to 4 sessions in the first year
One session every 4 to 6 weeks
Maintenance every 6 to 12 months
Results build gradually. PRP is not a “one-time fix.” It is a long-term care plan.
Realistic Expectations: What PRP Can and Cannot Do
PRP helps improve hair health, but it is not magic.
What It Can Do
Slow hair loss
Improve thickness
Strengthen weak roots
Improve scalp health
What It Cannot Do
Create hair on completely bald skin
Replace hair transplants
Stop genetic hair loss forever
Doctors recommend PRP as part of a complete hair strategy, not as a miracle cure.
Why Many Clinics in the Netherlands Trust PRP
In recent years, Dutch clinics have invested heavily in PRP technology and training.
Institutions such as Erasmus MC and Radboudumc have published research supporting regenerative therapies.
Private clinics also follow European medical standards and strict hygiene rules.
Many patients now choose professional treatments like hair p r p because of transparent methods and medical supervision.This builds trust and improves long-term results.
Cost of Hair PRP in the Netherlands
Prices may vary by clinic and city.
On average:
One session: €250 to €450
Package of 3 sessions: €700 to €1,200
Some clinics offer payment plans.
Always choose quality over low price. Cheap treatments may use poor equipment or low platelet concentration.
Lifestyle Tips to Support PRP Results
PRP works best when combined with healthy habits.
Doctors often recommend:
Balanced diet with protein and iron
Good sleep routine
Stress management
Gentle hair care
Avoiding harsh chemicals
Think of PRP as fertilizer for your hair. It works better when the soil is healthy.
Why Early Action Matters
Hair loss does not happen overnight. It happens slowly.
Many people wait too long because:
They feel embarrassed
They think it will stop
They fear treatment
By the time they act, follicles may already be inactive.
Doctors stress that early action gives better outcomes and saves money in the long run.
Is Hair PRP Worth It?
After years of clinical trials, patient feedback and hours of research doctors now agree on one thing:
PRP is one of the safest and most effective non-surgical options for early hair loss.
It works with your body, not against it.
If you notice thinning hair, more shedding or reduced volume, PRP may be worth considering.
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