If you have noticed thinning hair or changes in your skin, you may be looking for a treatment that could help, and a clear explanation of what to expect.
PRP uses a small sample of your own blood. The science behind it is interesting, but when you are considering treatment, the questions are personal: could it help your concern, how does it work, and is it worth exploring?
With PRP hair and skin treatments now available at Midland Health, here is what to know before deciding.
How does PRP work?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Platelets help your blood clot and release proteins called growth factors, which act as signals during tissue repair.
A practitioner takes a small blood sample and spins it in a machine called a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. The prepared portion is then injected into the treatment area.
The aim is to deliver these growth factors where they may support hair growth or skin repair. This is the basis for the treatment; the benefit you experience depends on your concern and how you respond.
Could it help with thinning hair?
Research suggests PRP can improve hair density in some people with male or female pattern hair loss. This means more hairs growing within a measured area of the scalp. However, studies vary, and results are not guaranteed.
Before recommending treatment, it is important to understand why your hair is thinning. Increased shedding, a widening parting or a receding hairline can have different causes, so the same approach will not suit everyone.
Our PRP hair restoration service in Birmingham begins with an assessment of your hair and scalp. If the cause is unclear or there are signs of a scalp condition, a dermatology assessment may be needed first.
What might it do for your skin?
PRP is being studied for improvements in skin texture and the appearance of fine lines. Researchers are interested in how growth factors influence cells that produce collagen, which helps support the skin.
Some studies report improvements, while others find little additional benefit. The evidence is still developing, so it is important to discuss what may be realistic for your particular concern.
Our PRP skin treatment service offers treatments for the face, neck and under-eye area. Face and neck treatments also include microneedling.
Why does Midland Health use PRF?
Our treatments use injectable platelet-rich fibrin, or i-PRF. This is related to PRP and also comes from your own blood.
It is prepared without an anticoagulant — a substance that prevents clotting — allowing a natural fibrin network to form. Research suggests this can release certain growth factors more gradually. It is a promising feature, although it does not by itself prove that visible results will last longer.
Your practitioner can explain the preparation used and what the evidence means for you.
How many treatments will you need?
Treatment is usually planned as a course. At Midland Health, the initial programme is generally three hair treatments over three months, or three skin treatments about four weeks apart. Your plan may differ depending on your needs.
Changes develop gradually, and hair results may take several months to assess. Further appointments may be recommended to maintain a benefit.
Does it hurt, and is there any downtime?
The blood sample and injections can cause discomfort. Afterwards, you may notice tenderness, redness, swelling or bruising.
Using your own blood does not remove every risk: injections can also cause infection. Your practitioner will explain the risks and aftercare relevant to your treatment.
How do you know whether it is right for you?
Start with a consultation. Emma Conway carries out our treatments at our Francis Road clinic in Birmingham, with dermatology support where needed.
You will have time to explain what you have noticed, discuss your health and medication history, and ask about likely benefits, costs and alternatives. You can also decide to wait or take no treatment.
Explore our PRP hair treatments or PRP skin treatments for appointment details and pricing.
