PRECISION IN PRP

Dr Ben Taylor-Davies considers why precision matters in PRP and explains how careful preparation, patient selection and realistic expectations can support more consistent outcomes.

Weare seeing a shift in the way patients think about treatment. They are looking beyond quick fixes and towards improving tissue health over the longer term. Rather than simply disguising the signs of ageing or hair loss, they want treatments that work with the body’s own biology.

Hair restoration is a good example of this. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used for many years, with a growing body of evidence supporting its role in the management of some forms of hair loss. However, preparation methods and protocols vary, and these differences may affect the composition of the final product and the consistency of outcomes.

Around a year ago, we introduced the Arthrex autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) system into my practice. Before that, I felt traditional PRP could be inconsistent.

The ACP system uses a sterile, closed double-syringe system and does not require the addition of an anticoagulant during preparation. The centrifugation process is designed to produce PRP with a low concentration of inflammatory white blood cells. I have found the system straightforward to use and the resulting product more consistent and have been encouraged by the outcomes we have seen, both in hair restoration and as part of broader regenerative treatment plans.

SETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS

Hair restoration remains one of my favourite applications for platelet-based treatments. The aim is to deliver a concentrated source of platelets and associated growth factors to the scalp to support follicular activity and hair growth. It is not an overnight solution, and I make that clear during consultation. Any improvement is gradual and varies between patients.

In my experience, patients are accepting of this when the rationale, treatment course and limitations are explained. They are often willing to wait for gradual change because the goal is to support healthier hair growth rather than provide a temporary cosmetic disguise.

I have also undergone the treatment myself, so I understand the process from both sides. After a course of three sessions, it was my barber who first commented that my hair appeared to be growing more strongly. Although one personal experience cannot predict another patient’s outcome, it reinforced what I had observed in practice.

Regenerative treatments cannot be considered separately from general health. Their success may be influenced by the patient’s health and lifestyle, and the quality of the treatment protocol. I encourage patients to eat a balanced diet with adequate protein, sleep well, manage stress and stop smoking. It is important to investigate underlying contributors to hair loss and establish whether PRP is appropriate.

Patient selection is essential. Autologous platelet treatments may not be suitable for patients with blood disorders, active infection, certain autoimmune conditions or active cancer. A thorough medical history, appropriate assessment and referral or further investigation where indicated should form part of the consultation.

Preparation matters too. Before treatment, I advise patients to stay well hydrated, eat normally and avoid alcohol the night before. This can make the process more comfortable, although patients should always receive tailored advice.

PART OF A WIDER TREATMENT PLAN

Hair restoration is not the only application for ACP in my practice. I may combine it with procedures such as laser resurfacing or radiofrequency microneedling as part of an individualised plan intended to support recovery and tissue regeneration. It can also be considered as a standalone option for patients seeking an autologous approach, provided the indication is appropriate and the limitations are understood.

Interest in treatments that use a patient’s own biological material is likely to continue. However, enthusiasm for regenerative medicine must be matched by evidence, standardised protocols and responsible claims. PRP has a substantial clinical literature behind it, but studies differ in their preparation methods, treatment schedules and outcome measures. It is important not to present every PRP system or protocol as interchangeable.

For clinicians considering introducing platelet-based treatments, training should include patient selection, diagnosis, consent, product preparation, infection control, management of complications and evaluation of results. Consistent photography and agreed outcome measures can also help clinicians assess whether a protocol is delivering meaningful change.

I do not see regenerative medicine replacing every other approach to hair loss or aesthetic treatment. Its value lies in how it can complement evidence-based medical management and other procedures.

By focusing on careful assessment, reproducible preparation and realistic expectations, we can offer patients a more considered approach to supporting hair and tissue health over time.

Dr Ben Taylor-Davies is an aesthetic doctor and co-founder and clinical director of The Stockbridge Clinic. Alongside his aesthetic practice, he works as an NHS Emergency Medicine Physician. He serves on the Clinical Support Team of CMAC (Complications in Medical Aesthetics Collaborative).