PRF and PDGF Hair Restoration: Natural Treatments for Thinning Hair
Hair thinning and hair loss can affect confidence, self-esteem, and quality of life—but today, there are powerful, natural treatment options that go beyond over-the-counter products. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) injections have become two of the most effective non-surgical treatments for hair restoration. Another promising is the growing use of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) in targeted scalp therapies.
If you’re struggling with androgenetic alopecia, thinning hair, or a receding hairline, here’s what you need to know about these regenerative therapies—and how alternating between PRF and PDGF can unlock your hair’s full potential.
What Are PRP, PRF, and PDGF?
Let’s break down the science behind these powerful treatments:
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP):
PRP is derived from your own blood. After a quick blood draw, the sample is spun in a centrifuge to separate out the platelet-rich plasma, which is full of growth factors that stimulate healing and cellular regeneration. Once injected into the scalp, PRP works to wake up dormant hair follicles and encourage new growth.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF):
PRF is the next-generation version of PRP. It’s spun at a slower speed and without anticoagulants, which preserves more white blood cells, stem cells, and the natural fibrin matrix. This allows for a slower, more sustained release of growth factors, making PRF especially effective for long-term scalp rejuvenation and hair density improvement.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF):
PDGF is one of the most potent growth factors found in both PRP and PRF. It plays a key role in cell proliferation, angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), and tissue regeneration. When used as part of a targeted treatment plan, PDGF can significantly improve blood flow to the scalp, revive hair follicles, and increase the thickness and strength of individual hair strands.
How These Treatments Stimulate Hair Growth
Each of these treatments works by leveraging your body’s natural healing power. When injected into the scalp, PRP, PRF, and PDGF:
- Stimulate hair follicles to enter and remain in the active growth phase (anagen) Improve circulation and nutrient delivery to the scalp
- Support the production of collagen and elastin
- Prolong the lifespan of existing hair strands
- Reduce inflammation around follicles that can lead to thinning
Together, these effects help promote natural hair regrowth, increase hair density, and slow or reverse the progression of pattern hair loss.
Alternating PRF and PDGF for Enhanced Results
Alternating PRF and PDGF treatments can yield superior outcomes compared to using either one exclusively. Here’s why:
- PRF offers a sustained release of multiple growth factors, including PDGF, VEGF, and TGF-β. This makes it ideal for stimulating long-term hair growth and regeneration.
- PDGF-specific treatments deliver a more concentrated dose of this essential growth factor, creating a targeted boost in follicular activity and circulation.
- Alternating between the two—typically every 4–6 weeks—helps to both jumpstart regrowth and maintain ongoing follicle stimulation over time.
This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with moderate to advanced hair thinning, as it addresses multiple aspects of hair follicle health.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Consultation – Your provider will assess your hair loss, discuss your goals, and create a customized plan that may include alternating PRF and PDGF sessions.
- Blood Draw & Processing – A small amount of blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to isolate the regenerative components.
- Scalp Injections – Using a fine needle or microneedling device, the PRF or PDGF is injected into thinning or dormant areas of the scalp.
- Recovery – There’s little to no downtime. You may experience mild redness or tenderness for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
Most patients benefit from a series of 3–4 treatments spaced one month apart, followed by maintenance sessions every 6–12 months.
Scientific Support for PRF and PDGF Hair Restoration
Research continues to support the use of regenerative medicine in the treatment of hair loss:
- A 2020 study in Dermatologic Surgery found that PRP significantly improves hair thickness and density in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia.
- Clinical trials show that PDGF increases angiogenesis and fibroblast activity, two essential components of hair follicle health.
- PRF is shown to have a higher concentration of leukocytes and stem cells, making it more effective in sustaining long-term growth when compared to PRP.
By combining PRF’s extended-release action with PDGF’s potency, patients may experience quicker onset of results and improved longevity of regrowth.
Is This Treatment Right for You?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Are experiencing early to moderate hair thinning
- Have some active follicles (not completely bald)
- Want to avoid surgical hair restoration options
- Are in good general health with no clotting disorders
Why Choose Mint & Needle for Hair Restoration?
At Mint & Needle, we use the most advanced, research-driven techniques to help patients restore confidence through customized hair regrowth treatments. By offering both PRF and PDGF therapies, our providers can tailor a plan that works with your body’s natural biology to deliver real, noticeable results.
Ready to Regrow Your Confidence?
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how PRF and PDGF can help you reverse thinning hair and achieve stronger, fuller growth—naturally.