Hair

PRP, finasteride, minoxidil: what each one honestly does

None of them regrow hair on bald skin. All of them protect what you still have — which is often the more valuable job.

PRP: what the evidence supports

Concentrated platelets improve follicle quality and perfusion. Studies show increased shaft thickness and reduced shedding in early-stage loss, plus improved graft survival when used around a transplant. It does not create follicles where none remain.

Finasteride: the one that changes the trajectory

It blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT and is the only agent with strong evidence for halting pattern loss long-term. Side effects are uncommon but real and must be discussed rather than dismissed — that conversation should happen with a doctor, not a sales advisor.

Minoxidil: useful, unglamorous

Topical minoxidil extends the growth phase and thickens miniaturised hair. It requires indefinite daily use, causes an initial shedding phase that makes people quit at week four, and works best on the crown.

How they fit around surgery

We use PRP at the time of transplant and again at months one and three to support graft survival, and we discuss medical therapy for native hair. Surgery restores; medication preserves. Skipping the second half is how good results deteriorate.

Swedish Clinic
Swedish Clinic IstanbulReviewed by our clinical team
Frequently asked questions

PRP, finasteride, minoxidil: what each one honestly does

Yes. The grafts are permanent regardless — but native hair around them may continue to thin.

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