What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous regenerative medicine therapy that uses components of the patient’s own blood to stimulate natural mechanisms of tissue repair and regeneration. Initially developed in the 1970s in cardiac and orthopedic surgery, this technique has progressively become established in dermatology, aesthetic medicine, and trichology.
The principle of PRP is based on the concentration of blood platelets and the growth factors they release. Injected into targeted tissues, PRP acts as a biological signal that stimulates cellular regeneration, collagen production, and improvement of local vascularization.
PRP is neither a synthetic product nor a volumizing treatment. It is a biological, progressive, and personalized approach, whose effects depend closely on the individual response of each patient.
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What is PRP and how does it act on tissues?
Platelet-rich plasma is obtained by centrifugation of the patient’s blood. This process makes it possible to isolate a plasma fraction enriched with platelets, at a concentration generally 4 to 6 times higher than baseline physiological values.
Platelets contain alpha granules rich in biologically active growth factors, including:
PDGF (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor)
TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor beta)
VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor)
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor)
Once injected, these growth factors:
- stimulate cellular proliferation,
- promote collagen and elastin synthesis,
- improve microcirculation (angiogenesis),
- contribute to dermal thickening and restructuring.
Histological studies show an increase in dermal thickness and better organization of the collagen network after several PRP sessions.
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What is PRP used for? Medical and aesthetic indications
In aesthetic dermatology
PRP is used for:
- skin rejuvenation of the face, neck, and décolleté,
- improvement of skin texture, radiance, and tone uniformity,
- reduction of fine lines and superficial wrinkles,
- treatment of acne scars,
- improvement of certain stretch marks.
Histological analyses after PRP show a measurable improvement in epidermal thickness and collagen quality.
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In trichology (hair treatment)
PRP is used in:
- female and male androgenetic alopecia,
- chronic telogen effluvium,
- certain diffuse decreases in hair density.
Clinical studies show variable but overall encouraging results. A meta-analysis reports a significant increase in hair density, with improvement in the number of hairs per cm² and hair fiber diameter.
What PRP can — and cannot — do
It is essential to understand that PRP is a biological stimulation therapy.
It does not replace surgical lifting.
It does not restore volume like fillers.
It does not act immediately.
Its effects are progressive, moderate, and cumulative, and most often form part of a global skin or hair care strategy, sometimes combined with other treatments.
How a PRP session works
Patient preparation
It is recommended to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for 5 to 7 days before the session, as they may impair platelet function.
The treatment area is carefully cleansed. A topical anesthetic cream may be applied for facial injections.
Blood draw and preparation
A venous blood sample of 10 to 20 ml is taken. The blood is collected in sterile tubes containing an anticoagulant, then centrifuged according to a standardized protocol (one or two steps).
Centrifugation separates:
- red blood cells,
- platelet-poor plasma,
- an intermediate layer (“buffy coat”) rich in platelets.
The enriched fraction (approximately 3 to 6 ml of PRP) is collected. Some protocols include platelet activation before injection.
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PRP injection
PRP is injected using fine needles:
- superficial mesotherapy for the face,
- at a depth of 2 to 3 mm for the scalp.
The total session duration is generally 45 to 60 minutes.
Immediate aftercare and recovery
After the session, it is common to observe:
- mild erythema,
- transient swelling,
- sometimes small bruises.
These effects usually disappear within 24 to 48 hours. Daily activities can be resumed immediately, with avoidance of intense sport and sun exposure for 1 to 2 days.
PRP results: when and for how long?
Onset of results
Skin: first improvements after 3 to 4 weeks, maximum effect around 3 months.
Hair: measurable improvement between 3 and 6 months.
A controlled study reports an average increase of 33.6 hairs/cm² after 6 months (3 sessions).
Recommended protocol
Initial phase: 3 to 4 sessions, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
Maintenance: 1 session every 6 to 12 months.
Duration of effects
Skin rejuvenation: 12 to 18 months with maintenance.
Hair treatment: 6 to 12 months, with gradual regression without maintenance sessions.
Results vary depending on age, baseline tissue condition, lifestyle, and PRP quality.
PRP prices in Belgium
In Belgium, average prices are:
- Face: from €250 per session
- Hair: from €250 per session
Aesthetic PRP is not reimbursed by INAMI. Mutual insurance participation remains exceptional.
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Contraindications and precautions
Absolute contraindications
- Thrombocytopenia
- Uncontrolled coagulation disorders
- Ongoing anticoagulation
- Active infection
- Active or recent cancer
- Severe uncontrolled autoimmune diseases
Relative contraindications
- Severe anemia
- Platelet dysfunction
- Severe liver disease
- Immunosuppression
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (precautionary principle)
A prior medical evaluation is essential.
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Side effects and safety
PRP has an excellent safety profile. Side effects are most often mild:
- transient pain,
- redness,
- swelling,
- bruising.
Serious complications are rare when sterile technique is respected.
What studies really show
Scientific data show that PRP is:
- effective for mild to moderate skin rejuvenation,
- relevant for mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia.
However, the wide variability of protocols explains differences in observed results. The best studies highlight the need for standardized protocols and rigorous patient selection.
PRP and PRF: what is the difference?
PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) is an evolution of PRP developed to provide a more gradual release of growth factors. Unlike PRP, which releases most of its growth factors within the first hours, PRF releases them over several days thanks to a natural fibrin matrix. PRF requires no chemical additives and its preparation differs from that of PRP. Both treatments have their own indications, and neither is systematically superior to the other. The choice depends on the therapeutic goal and the protocol recommended by your physician. To learn more, see our complete PRF guide.
Why do PRP results vary so much from one person to another?
The response to PRP depends on individual biological factors that the physician cannot fully control. Age directly influences tissue regenerative capacity: younger patients generally show a more pronounced response. Hormonal status also plays an important role, particularly in androgenetic alopecia, where hormonal fluctuations can limit treatment effectiveness.
The intrinsic quality of the patient’s blood is a determining factor. Baseline platelet count, platelet functionality, as well as the presence of chronic inflammation or deficiencies (iron, vitamin D), can reduce the concentration and activity of growth factors.
Lifestyle also affects outcomes: smoking, chronic stress, an unbalanced diet, and lack of sleep impair platelet quality and slow regenerative processes.
Finally, the severity of the initial condition is a key factor. PRP works best as a preventive treatment or for mild to moderate conditions, rather than in cases of advanced skin aging or severe alopecia with irreversible follicular atrophy.
How can I know whether the PRP I receive is of good quality?
PRP quality is based on three essential elements: the preparation system, the centrifugation protocol, and the platelet concentration achieved.
During the consultation, it is entirely appropriate to ask specific questions. The medical device used to prepare PRP must be CE-certified and specifically designed for this purpose. Medical-grade preparation kits ensure better sterility and process standardization.
The centrifugation protocol is equally important: one or two steps, with defined speeds and durations. Reproducible protocols lead to more predictable results. An experienced physician should be able to indicate the target platelet concentration of their protocol—generally 4 to 6 times the baseline value—and explain the technical choices made.
Another key indicator is the volume of blood collected. In practice, 10 to 20 ml are generally required to obtain an adequate PRP volume. Insufficient volumes may compromise effectiveness. Finally, PRP should be injected shortly after preparation in order to preserve the biological activity of growth factors.
The variability of preparation systems partly explains why clinical studies report heterogeneous results.
Does PRP work better alone or in combination with other treatments?
Scientific data suggest that PRP may be more effective when integrated into a combined approach, depending on the therapeutic objective.
In skin rejuvenation, several studies have evaluated the combination of PRP with microneedling. Microneedling creates microchannels in the skin that facilitate PRP penetration and trigger a controlled inflammatory response, enhancing the action of growth factors. A comparative study showed significantly greater improvement in skin texture and dermal thickness with PRP + microneedling compared to PRP alone.
PRP is also used after certain fractional laser treatments to accelerate healing and optimize outcomes.
In trichology, some studies have evaluated PRP combined with topical minoxidil. Results suggest an additive effect, with greater improvement in hair density than with either treatment alone. However, there is still no consensus on the optimal combined protocol.
Overall, PRP is generally not a standalone solution. It is part of a global strategy that may include appropriate topical care, rigorous sun protection, and, in some cases, additional aesthetic treatments. The physician must be able to scientifically justify the proposed combinations and clearly explain the contribution of each treatment.
Can PRP effectiveness be predicted before starting treatment?
There is no 100% reliable predictive test, but certain elements can help guide expectations.
For alopecia, the duration and severity of hair loss are decisive. Patients with recent alopecia (less than 5 years) and moderate hair miniaturization generally respond better than those with long-standing baldness and areas completely devoid of follicles. Hair pull tests and scalp dermoscopy help assess residual follicular activity.
For skin rejuvenation, clinical evaluation of skin elasticity, dermal thickness, and degree of photoaging provides useful indications. Skin that is still capable of producing collagen will respond better than very thin skin with marked laxity.
Physiological age is often more relevant than chronological age: a 55-year-old patient with a healthy lifestyle may respond better than a younger patient who smokes and has significantly damaged skin quality.
A thorough medical consultation, including clinical examination and detailed discussion of medical history, helps identify patients most likely to benefit from PRP. An experienced physician will also advise against PRP when the situation is unsuitable and guide the patient toward more appropriate alternatives.
Choosing a PRP practitioner in Belgium
In Belgium, PRP must be performed by a physician. Practitioner selection is crucial.
To verify during consultation:
- specific training,
- experience with PRP,
- certified equipment compliant with European standards,
- strict adherence to hygiene rules,
- transparency regarding expected results and costs.
A thorough pre-treatment consultation is essential to determine whether PRP is appropriate for your situation.
PRP is an interesting biological therapy, but it is not a miracle solution. When properly indicated, well prepared, and integrated into a comprehensive care strategy, it can sustainably improve skin and hair quality.
The decision to consider PRP treatment deserves clear, honest, and personalized information. A specialized medical consultation allows assessment of treatment relevance and definition of objectives in a realistic and safe manner.
FAQ
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