PRP vs GFC: Which Hair Treatment is Better?
Hair loss is one of the most common concerns today, affecting both men and women. In fact, studies show that nearly 70% of men experience noticeable hair loss by the age of 35, while over 40% of women face thinning hair during their lifetime.
It’s a natural process that can be triggered by factors like genetics, stress, hormonal imbalances, poor diet, or even certain medical conditions.
Beyond just looks, it often impacts confidence, self-esteem, and even social interactions. From receding hairlines to reduced hair density, people start searching for treatments that not only control hair fall but also stimulate natural regrowth.
But is there a solution for it? – Yes.
Among the modern options available, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate) are two of the most recommended treatments by dermatologists.
Both are advanced, minimally invasive, and clinically backed procedures designed to stimulate hair follicles, improve scalp health, and support long-term hair growth.
But when it comes to PRP vs GFC, which treatment actually works better for hair growth? Which one gives you lasting results at a reasonable cost?
Let’s break it down in detail and help you decide the right choice for your hair.
What is PRP Hair Treatment?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a treatment that uses your own blood’s healing components to repair and rejuvenate tissues. In the context of hair, PRP hair treatment is widely used to stimulate dormant follicles and encourage natural regrowth.
The process is simple yet highly effective. A small amount of your blood is drawn, then placed into a centrifuge machine that separates the plasma rich in platelets from other blood components.
This concentrated plasma is packed with growth factors that play a vital role in repairing tissues and stimulating new cell growth. Once extracted, this PRP is carefully injected into the scalp where thinning or hair loss is present.
These PRP growth factors help improve blood supply to the hair follicles, extend the growth phase of the hair cycle, and promote thicker, healthier strands.
What is GFC Hair Treatment?
Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC), an advanced therapy designed specifically for hair regrowth. Like PRP, it uses components derived from your own blood, but the process is more refined and targeted.
In GFC treatment, blood is drawn and processed in a special kit that extracts only the pure growth factors, other than red and white blood cells, platelets, or any unnecessary components.
This ensures a highly concentrated formulation of growth factors, which are directly responsible for repairing tissues, improving scalp health, and stimulating hair follicle activity.
The key difference between PRP and GFC lies in this concentration: while PRP contains plasma along with platelets, GFC delivers a cleaner and more potent dose of growth factors, making it more effective for many patients.
Dermatologists increasingly recommend GFC due to its safety, consistency, and faster results. Many GFC hair treatment reviews highlight reduced hair fall, improved thickness, and visible regrowth within a few sessions – earning it strong clinical acceptance as a next-gen alternative to PRP.
PRP vs GFC: Key Differences
While both treatments work on the same principle of using the body’s natural healing potential, the way they are prepared and delivered makes a significant difference.
Below is a side-by-side comparison of PRP vs GFC to help you understand which treatment may suit you better:
| Factor | PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) | GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate) |
|---|---|---|
|
Preparation Process |
Blood is drawn and centrifuged to separate plasma with platelets
|
Blood is processed in a specialized kit to extract only pure growth factors, without red/white blood cells or platelets. |
|
Concentration of Growth Factors |
Moderate – plasma contains platelets along with some growth factors. |
High – delivers a cleaner, concentrated dose of growth factors directly. |
|
Effectiveness in Hair Regrowth |
Promotes hair growth, reduces hair fall, and improves hair thickness over time. |
More targeted stimulation, often showing faster and more noticeable improvement in density and quality. |
|
Success Rate |
PRP hair treatment success rate is considered effective for many patients, though individual results may vary. |
GFC hair treatment success rate is generally considered higher because of the purity and concentrated dose of growth factors |
|
Safety & Side Effects |
Minimal, may cause mild swelling or tenderness at injection sites. |
Minimal, often considered safer since only growth factors are injected, reducing chances of irritation. |
Cost Comparison: PRP vs GFC
When choosing between PRP and GFC, cost is one of the most important deciding factors. Since both treatments require multiple sessions for best results, understanding the price difference can help you plan better.
- PRP hair treatment cost: The PRP cost per session usually ranges between ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 in India. Total expenses depend on how many sessions your dermatologist recommends, typically 4–6 sessions.
- GFC hair treatment cost: The GFC treatment cost is slightly higher, usually between ₹7,000 – ₹12,000 per session. This is because the process requires specialized kits and provides a more concentrated dose of growth factors.
Factors Affecting Price
- Location of clinic – Treatment costs are usually higher in big cities compared to smaller towns due to overhead and demand.
- Dermatologist’s expertise – Experienced specialists may charge premium fees.
- Number of sessions required – More sessions = higher overall cost.
- Additional therapies – Combining PRP/GFC with mesotherapy, laser, or medications can increase total expense.
Average Price in India
- PRP hair treatment price in India: ₹20,000 – ₹45,000 (for a complete package of sessions).
- GFC hair treatment price in India: ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 (for a full course of sessions).
PRP is more budget-friendly, GFC is often seen as a longer-term investment due to its higher success rate and concentrated formulation.
Effectiveness & Results
One of the most common questions people have is whether these treatments can actually regrow hair and how effective they truly are.
Let’s break it down:
Does PRP grow new hair?
Yes, PRP can stimulate dormant hair follicles and encourage new hair growth in areas with thinning. However, it works best in the early stages of hair loss rather than in completely bald patches.
Is PRP effective for hair growth?
PRP is effective in improving hair density, reducing shedding, and promoting healthier, thicker strands over time. Results vary from person to person but are generally positive when sessions are done consistently.
Is PRP good for hair?
Absolutely. By improving blood circulation to the scalp and supplying natural growth factors, PRP strengthens existing hair and supports long-term scalp health.
Are GFC results better than PRP?
Since GFC contains a higher concentration of growth factors, many patients experience faster regrowth, stronger roots, and visibly improved hair thickness compared to PRP.
How many sessions are needed?
On average, PRP requires 4–6 sessions spaced about a month apart for noticeable results. GFC usually requires fewer sessions (3–4), thanks to its concentrated formulation, making it more time-efficient.
GFC vs PRP: Which One Should You Choose?
GFC is often recommended if you want faster, more consistent results with fewer sessions. Since it contains a higher concentration of purified growth factors, it is considered more effective for visible regrowth and improving overall hair quality.
PRP is a good option if you are in the early stages of hair thinning, want a cost-effective treatment, and don’t mind undergoing multiple sessions to see gradual improvement. It’s also suitable for those looking to strengthen existing hair and reduce hair fall.
Both PRP and GFC are effective hair restoration treatments. PRP is more affordable and suitable for early hair thinning, while GFC offers higher success rates, faster results, and requires fewer sessions.
The right choice depends on your hair loss stage, budget, and personal goals – consulting a dermatologist will help you decide the best option.
Making the Right Choice for Your Hair
Both PRP and GFC hair treatments are proven solutions for hair loss, but they differ in terms of cost, success rate, and effectiveness.
PRP is a more budget-friendly option and works well for early-stage thinning, while GFC provides faster, more consistent results with fewer sessions due to its higher concentration of growth factors.
Since every individual’s hair loss pattern and scalp condition are unique, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist or trichologist before making a decision.
FAQs
Both treatments are effective, but GFC hair treatment is generally considered better because it delivers a higher concentration of growth factors, giving faster and more consistent results than PRP.
No, GFC hair treatment is not more painful than PRP. In fact, many patients find it more comfortable since only purified growth factors are injected.
Yes, GFC hair treatment stimulates dormant follicles, strengthens roots, and promotes natural regrowth, especially in early to moderate hair loss cases.
Yes, some dermatologists may combine PRP and GFC to maximize results. However, this depends on your scalp condition and should be decided after consultation.
On average, 3–4 sessions of GFC are required, while PRP usually needs 4–6 sessions. The exact number varies based on your hair loss stage
GFC results are not permanent - they slow down hair fall and promote regrowth, but maintenance sessions may be needed after 12–18 months.
Both PRP and GFC results can last around 12–18 months, depending on genetics, lifestyle, and scalp care. Follow-up sessions help maintain results.
Yes, PRP and GFC treatments can be combined for enhanced outcomes. This hybrid approach may give better density and thickness in certain patients.
