PRP / "Vampire Facial" / PRP Hair Restoration
A patient's own blood is drawn, centrifuged to concentrate platelets and growth factors, then injected or microneedled into the treatment area to stimulate tissue regeneration.
How it works
Platelets release growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF) that trigger stem cell activation, collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, and tissue repair — using the body's own healing cascade.
Reported benefits
- Skin rejuvenation and texture improvement
- Hair loss treatment (androgenic alopecia)
- Under-eye dark circle reduction
- Joint pain relief (knee, shoulder, hip)
- Tendon and ligament healing
- Post-treatment wound healing acceleration
Regulatory status
Approved for: Wound care, Orthopedic applications, Dental use
PRP systems CE-marked as Class II/III medical devices. Cosmetic use widely practiced but classified as a medical procedure requiring physician oversight in most EU countries.
Approved for: Wound healing, Orthopedic support
PRP devices are MHRA registered. Aesthetic PRP use requires a licensed healthcare professional. Considered a medical procedure.
Approved for: Wound healing (cleared), Dental bone grafting (cleared), Surgical hemostasis (approved)
PRP centrifuge systems are FDA 510(k) cleared as medical devices. Cosmetic and hair loss uses are off-label. FDA has not approved PRP for joint injections — used off-label by orthopedic surgeons.
Practical details
Frequency: Series of 3 treatments, 4–6 weeks apart; maintenance every 6–12 months
Results last: Gradual improvement over 2–3 months; hair results visible at 3–6 months
Contraindications:
- Active cancer or chemotherapy
- Blood disorders (thrombocytopenia, platelet dysfunction)
- Anticoagulant medications
- Active infection at treatment site
- Anemia (insufficient platelets to concentrate)
Always consult a licensed medical professional before undergoing any treatment. This information is educational only and does not constitute medical advice.