English
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment method in which the body's own blood is used to accelerate healing and tissue repair. PRP has become popular in beauty treatments for skin and hair, but is also used in sports medicine and other medical fields. Below we explain in an easy to understand way what PRP is, how it works, common uses, common questions, risks, what the research says about the effect and what a PRP treatment can cost.
PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma, in Swedish often referred to as platelet-rich plasma. It is a concentrated plasma solution rich in platelets (platelets) and growth factors. PRP treatment involves taking a small sample of the patient's blood and running it in a centrifuge to separate out the part of the blood that contains extra platelets. This concentrated plasma is then injected back into the body at the area to be treated -- for example, in the skin or a damaged tendon.
The platelets in PRP play an important role because they contain natural growth factors which stimulates cell growth and healing. The idea is that the high concentration of these growth factors in place will trigger the body's own healing process — it can increase collagen production, improve blood circulation locally and promote tissue regeneration. The result is that damaged or aging tissues are helped to repair themselves faster and more efficiently. Simply put, using PRP the body's own healing cells as “boost” to regenerate skin, hair or other tissues.
The procedure itself is relatively simple and fast. First, the caregiver draws a small amount of blood, often a pair of tubes, from the patient's arm -- much like with a regular blood test. The blood is placed in a centrifuge that spins it at high speed to separate plasma and platelets from red blood cells. The concentrated plasma with a high content of platelets collected in a syringe. The plasma is then injected with a thin needle directly into the area that needs treatment. For a scalp treatment, for example, many small injections are made over the thin-haired area. The injection part itself goes quickly; a full PRP session usually takes around 30—60 minutes from start to finish. The treatment does not require surgery and the patient can usually return to normal activities immediately afterwards. Sometimes a local anesthetic cream can be used on the skin before the injections to reduce discomfort.
PRP is used in several fields — from aesthetic beauty treatments to the treatment of sports injuries. Here we focus on the most common uses:
One of the most popular aesthetic uses of PRP is for the treatment of thinness and androgenetic hair loss (hereditary hair loss). Under a PRP Hair Treatment is then injected into the scalp to stimulate the hair follicles. The growth factors released can increase blood circulation around the hair follicles and awaken dormant hairs, resulting in stronger and thicker hair growth. The treatment can be used for both men and women who experience hair loss. PRP is also sometimes used after hair transplantation to promote healing and further hair growth in the transplanted area.
In aesthetic dermatology, PRP is used to improve the quality and appearance of the skin. When PRP is injected into the facial skin, it can stimulate new collagen formation and cell renewal. This can provide a firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin texture over time. PRP treatments for the skin have been nicknamed “vampire treatment” or “vampire facial” because one uses the patient's own blood as a beauty cure. Common indications include treating fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, dark circles and prp under the eyes, and generally tired or aged skin. What's unique is that PRP here works with the body's natural healing process to renew the skin from the inside, unlike fillers or botox which add substances from the outside. (Note that although many people experience improvement in their skin, they the scientific evidence because the effect on wrinkles is still limited.
PRP began to be used in medicine long before it became popular in the beauty industry. In sports medicine PRP has been used to treat injuries to tendons, joints and muscles. For example, chronic tendon injuries such as tennis elbow or jumper's knee can have a long healing time, and PRP injections are sometimes given to stimulate faster healing and reduce pain. Athletes at the elite level have reported that PRP helped them come back faster after injuries. PRP is also used for some acute muscle injuries and to try to speed up recovery after, for example, sprains or muscle strains. In orthopedics, PRP has been tested to relieve osteoarthritis symptoms — early studies suggest a reduction in pain and stiffness in knee osteoarthritis after PRP treatment. Orthopedic surgeons have also used PRP in conjunction with surgeries (such as in tendon or ligament injuries) by applying PRP around the operated area to improve the healing process.
In addition to hair, skin and sports injuries, research and use of PRP is ongoing in several other areas. In dentistry, PRP has been used to promote healing after jaw surgery. In rheumatology and pain management, PRP is tested for chronic tendon inflammation and joint pain. Some physicians have used PRP in wounds that heal poorly (e.g., diabetic foot ulcers) to stimulate healing, with varying results. PRP is thus a broad concept — the same principle (concentrate of platelets) is applied in different contexts where healing or tissue improvement is desired.
The price of PRP can vary significantly depending on where in the world and in which clinic it is performed, as well as the area being treated. Here's an overview:
In Sweden: A PRP treatment for hair or skin costs on average about SEK 2,500 to $5,000 per session. The price may be higher or lower depending on the clinic's pricing and the scope of treatment. Often, PRP is sold as packs of several treatments (for example, 3 treatments for a certain package price), as one usually needs several sessions for results. For example, a package of three PRP treatments for the scalp can cost around SEK 12,000-15,000 at a Swedish clinic. It is always best to consult the clinic to get an accurate price quote based on your individual needs, as the cost may be affected by the size of the area to be treated and if any supplements are made (some clinics combine PRP with other vitamin injections or treatments, which can affect the price).
International (US, Europe): In the United States, the price is usually higher. Per treatment, the cost can be about $500 up to $2,500 USD (equivalent to approximately SEK 5,000-25,000). The price tag in the US depends a lot on region (big cities and celebrity clinics charge more) and on whether it's for medical PRP (eg for knee joints) or cosmetic PRP. In the UK, a PRP session typically costs around £200—£600 GBP (equivalent to about SEK 2,500-7,500). In many European countries, prices are in the range EUR 300 to EUR 1 000 per treatment, depending on the clinic and area. Generally, cosmetic treatments in big cities (e.g. London, New York, Stockholm) more expensive than in smaller clinics or in countries with a lower level of costs.
Geographical Location: Larger cities and private specialist clinics usually charge more than smaller resorts.
Expertise and equipment of the clinic: A clinic with highly experienced doctors or advanced equipment can justify higher prices. Some clinics use special PRP kits or centrifuges that are said to provide higher concentration of growth factors, which can increase the cost.
Treatment area: Larger treatment areas (e.g., the entire scalp vs. only the hairline) may require more plasma and thus be more expensive. PRP for medical purposes (e.g., multiple joints) can also become costly if many areas are treated.
Number of sessions: Because you often need multiple treatments, some clinics offer package pricing. A higher total price can then be cheaper per session.
Combination treatments: Sometimes PRP is combined with other treatments (e.g. microneedling, laser, or adding vitamin cocktails). Such combinations can raise the price. Some PRP Treatments for hair, for example, includes added nutrients or growth factors in addition to the patient's plasma, which can increase the cost.
PRP for beauty (hair and skin) is considered an aesthetic treatment and not normally covered by health insurance. In countries such as the United States, where health insurance may cover some treatments, PRP is usually considered experimental or “non-essential” and the patient is allowed to pay out of his own pocket. For medical PRP treatments (e.g. for knee osteoarthritis), there may in some cases be available for reimbursement if the treatment is given in the context of a study or by a doctor justifying medical necessity, but generally these are also at the patient's expense. In Sweden and many EU countries, PRP in public healthcare is uncommon; most PRP is performed in private clinics with direct payment.
Summary of costs: Expect to pay a few thousand dollars per PRP opportunity. The total cost depends on how many treatments are needed — for hair loss it is not uncommon to have three initial treatments followed by maintenance, which can mean an investment of tens of thousands of SEK over time. It may be wise to compare prices between clinics, but remember that experience and quality are also important -- the cheapest treatment isn't necessarily the best. Many clinics offer consultations where you can get a personalized cost plan based on your starting position and goals.
The blood test itself and injections can feel like small stings, but most people don't find it very painful. One may experience some discomfort, especially the first time, and it may sting a little when the plasma is injected. Often the clinic uses an anesthetic cream or cools the skin beforehand to minimize discomfort. Afterwards, the area may be sore like a bruise, but it usually goes away within a day.
A PRP treatment begins with taking a small sample of blood from your arm. The blood is centrifuged for a few minutes to extract the platelet-rich plasma. After that, the doctor or specialist injects the concentrated plasma with a thin needle into the area to be treated. The injection itself is quick, but since preparation (blood collection, centrifugation) is required, the entire visit usually takes around half an hour up to an hour. You can normally leave the clinic immediately after and return to your usual activities.
PRP is rarely a one-time treatment when it comes to hair and skin. Most often, PRP is done in courier. Many clinics recommend e.g. 3-4 treatments approximately one month apart for hair loss. After these initial treatments, an evaluation is usually carried out. When it comes to hair growth, some begin to notice that new, stronger hairs grow after about 3—6 months. The maximum effect often comes after a few months up to half a year, as the growth cycle of hair follicles takes time. For skin treatments, some may see improvement in radiance and texture as early as a couple of weeks, but more noticeable changes (e.g. reduction of wrinkles or scars) develop gradually over months as new collagen forms. In many cases it is needed maintenance treatments — for example, you can do a replenishment treatment every 6 to 12 months to maintain results on hair growth or skin improvement, as the effect wears off over time.
No, the results of PRP are not necessarily permanent. PRP can stimulate healing and growth, but it does not cure underlying causes of hair loss or aging. Hair follicles that have been reactivated can over time re-enter the resting phase, and the skin's natural aging continues. Studies have seen that hair growth achieved with PRP can begin to wane again after 6—12 months. Therefore, frequent maintenance treatments (e.g. one treatment every six months) are often recommended to maintain hair results. The same applies to skin treatment — you may need to repeat PRP injections at regular intervals to keep the collagen stimulation going.
PRP treatments are usually well tolerated and serious side effects are uncommon. Since one uses one's own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or rejection is largely non-existent. The most common side effects are local and transient, such as soreness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Some may experience mild headaches after treatment (especially in the case of PRP on the scalp). The risk of infection is always present when making needle punctures in the skin, but it is very small under sterile conditions. In the Risks and Side Effects section below, we go over this in more detail.
Most healthy people can undergo PRP, but there are waivers. Pregnant or lactating women, as a rule, are not treated with PRP. People with certain medical conditions should avoid PRP, for example if you have an ongoing infection or skin disease in the area to be treated, if you have blood disorders or problems with clotting, or if you are on blood-thinning medications that cannot be stopped. Also active cancers or serious medical conditions may be contraindications. It is always important to discuss one's medical history with the treating physician before starting PRP, so that they can assess whether treatment is appropriate and safe in the individual case.
The effect of PRP is not permanent. The result usually lasts between 6 and 12 months, sometimes longer, depending on the part of the body you treat and how your body reacts. Think of it like when you water a flower: the water helps it grow and be healthier, but the flower needs periodic watering to keep feeling good. Similarly, PRP may need repeated or regular treatments to maintain efficacy, especially in the case of hair loss. After all, the body continues to age, and the growth factors of PRP stop working after a while. Therefore, many do a new treatment every six to twelve months to maintain the result.
One of the reasons why PRP has become popular is that it is a autologous treatment — that is, using the patient's own material. This results in a lower risk profile compared to many other injection treatments. Here's what you should know about the risks and side effects:
Most people experience no major discomfort after a PRP treatment. However, it is common with mild pain, soreness, redness or swelling where the needle went in. For example, the scalp may feel a little sore and swollen in the first few days after PRP injections for hair, or the skin may become slightly reddish after PRP on the face. Some may experience a slight headache or a feeling of tension if the treatment has been done on the scalp (PRP for hair loss: Does it work, and is it safe?). Small bruises may occur in the area of the sting. These mild complaints usually go away within a few days and rarely require any special action.
Anything involving needles involves a low risk of infection in the skin, although it is uncommon. Clinicians who perform PRP follow strict sterility procedures to minimize this risk. There is also a smaller risk of hemorrhage or hematoma (accumulation of blood under the skin) at the injection site, especially if you have an easy to bruise. Normally, these bleeds are small and self-limiting.
In summary, PRP is considered to be safe with few side effects for most patients. The reactions that can occur are usually mild and transient. Of course, one should always carry out the treatment with qualified health professionals and discuss their health with them beforehand, so that the risks are further minimized.
PRP is used in many fields today, but how well does it really work? Research into PRP has grown exponentially in recent years and the results are promising but varied depending on the area. Here's an overview of what scientific studies say:
Several clinical studies and review articles have investigated PRP for the treatment of androgenetic hair loss. A 2019 systematic review (published in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) reviewed 11 studies involving a total of 262 patients. Most of these studies reported that PRP injections decreased the rate of hair loss and increased both the density of the hair and the thickness of the hairs in people with hereditary hair loss. However, the same review noted that many studies had relatively few participants and varying quality, which means that the results must be interpreted with caution. Another systematic review, also from 2019 (Dermatologic Surgery), analyzed 19 studies (460 patients) and found that the majority reported hair regrowth in both androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata (patchy hair loss) after PRP treatment. The researchers behind a third review (2019, International Journal of Women's Dermatology) called PRP a “promising” approach to hair loss, but stressed that there is a lack of standardization — different studies use different protocols (different number of treatments, different spin methods, etc.), making it difficult to compare results straight off. Even more recent studies point to positive effects: a 2022 review article noted that PRP treatment can stimulate clear hair growth and increased hair thickness, as well as protect hair follicles from dying prematurely. Overall, research suggests that PRP usually provides improvement in hereditary hair loss — at least temporarily — but optimal treatment arrangements and long-term effects are still under investigation.
There are fewer and less uniform studies on PRP for aesthetic skin purposes (wrinkles, scars, etc.) compared to hair and orthopedics. Some small studies have shown improvement in skin elasticity and texture after repeated PRP treatments, and many patients report subjective improvements. However, experts point out that at the moment lack of strong evidence because PRP would dramatically reduce wrinkles or provide “rejuvenation” that surpasses existing methods. PRP is often used in combination with other techniques — such as microneedling (Dermaroller) — and some studies indicate that the combination may produce better results than microneedling alone. The field is under active research, and future studies will hopefully clarify exactly what role PRP should play in aesthetic skin treatment.
In orthopedics and sports medicine, there is a great deal of research on PRP, however, with mixed results depending on the type of injury.
One area where PRP has proved promising. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, studies have shown that chronic tennis elbow and similar tendon complaints can improve with PRP compared to no treatment, and in some cases PRP has provided better long-term pain relief than cortisone injections.
For joint wear such as knee osteoarthritis, numerous studies have compared PRP to traditional treatments (such as hyaluronic acid injections or cortisone). The results suggest that PRP may provide reduced pain and increased function in patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, at least in the short to medium term. Some studies show that the improvement from PRP can last longer than that from cortisone when following up patients after one year.
Here the evidence is less clear; there are reports of faster recovery, but also studies that do not find much difference to placebo. Overall, researchers believe that PRP in this area is promising but not guaranteed — a meta-analysis notes that the effect may depend on exactly how the PRP preparation is made and applied, as well as the type of injury. In one review, it was found that variations in preparation (different concentration of platelets, leukocytes, etc.), number of injections and rehabilitation programs cause the results of the studies to be somewhat skewed.
As mentioned, PRP is also being tested in other fields. In cardiac surgery, PRP has been tested to improve wound healing of sternum ulcers. In gynecology, “PRP-lifting” of ovaries has been studied for women with impaired fertility (experimentally). In dentistry, PRP has become relatively established for jawbone building and implant healing. Scientific support for these specialty applications vary -- some small studies report positive results, while others see no difference. The consensus right now is that more research is needed before PRP can be recommended more widely in many of these medical indications.
Overall assessment: PRP is regarded by medical experts as a promising but still developable technology. Research is underway in many areas and some studies show promising effects, as we have seen above. At the same time, it is emphasized that PRP is not a miracle cure and that the results can vary greatly. A major challenge is that lack of standardized protocols — various clinics and studies use different centrifuge methods, different amount of platelets, different number of treatments, etc., which makes it difficult to compare results and come up with general recommendations. Nevertheless, PRP has gained a foothold thanks to its safety profile and the fact that positive results have been documented in many cases. Ongoing and future randomized trials having larger patient populations will be important for definitively determining exactly how effective PRP is for different conditions, and for optimizing treatment methods.
