What is hair mesotherapy and what is it aimed at?
Hair mesotherapy is the shallow injection of mixtures containing vitamins, minerals, amino acids or hyaluronic acid into the scalp with very fine needles. The aim is to support the environment around the hair roots; an increase in hair count cannot be promised.
The scalp is the tissue that feeds hair follicles and is affected by environmental influences. In mesotherapy, the contents given directly to this area are intended to support the surroundings of the follicles. The mixtures used can differ from clinic to clinic; the content and licence status of the product should be explained to you by the doctor.
Evidence for this approach in hair loss is limited; studies use different protocols and small patient groups. For this reason hair mesotherapy is usually considered not as a stand-alone solution but as a supportive option alongside treatments aimed at the cause.
Why should the cause of hair loss be investigated first?
Hair loss has many different causes and each needs a different approach. A procedure done without knowing the cause can waste time and may let an underlying health problem go unnoticed.
Common causes include genetic predisposition, temporary shedding after childbirth, serious illness or stress, iron or vitamin D deficiency, thyroid disease, some medicines, hormonal imbalances and scalp conditions. Some are separated by blood tests, others by examining the scalp.
Sudden, patchy or widespread loss, or shedding accompanied by scalp redness, pain, scaling, fatigue or weight change, needs assessment by a dermatologist or the relevant specialist before an aesthetic procedure. Where needed, your doctor will direct you to the appropriate department.
Does hair mesotherapy stop hair loss?
It cannot be said that hair mesotherapy will stop shedding or grow new hair. In some people it may offer a supportive contribution to the scalp and existing hair; response varies, and hair is not expected to grow in areas that are completely bald.
Response depends on the cause and duration of the loss, age and the state of the hair roots. In areas where follicles have been closed for a long time, new hair is not expected from mesotherapy. In early stages with thinning or diffuse reduction it may be considered a supportive option. If a change occurs, it usually becomes noticeable over weeks to months.
For genetic hair loss, medicines advised by a doctor and regular follow-up usually form the core approach. Use and dosage of those medicines are individual and are set only by the doctor. Mesotherapy may sit in such a plan as an additional option; it is important not to start medicines or supplements on your own.
How does hair mesotherapy relate to PRP?
Both are given to the scalp as micro-injections; the difference is the content. Mesotherapy uses ready-made mixtures, while PRP uses platelet-rich plasma prepared from your own blood. Which is suitable, or whether they are used together, is decided at the consultation.
With PRP, blood is drawn, the plasma is separated and it is placed in the scalp. With ready-made products the content is known and manufacturer information exists. Evidence comparing the two is limited, and because protocols and products vary so widely, no firm ranking can be given.
Some clinics use both methods in different sessions of the same plan. Whether such a plan suits you depends on your health history and expectations. PRP is described in more detail on its own page.
What are the risks of hair mesotherapy and when is it unsuitable?
Scalp redness, tenderness, temporary swelling, pinpoint bruising and, rarely, infection or an allergic reaction can occur. With an active scalp infection, pregnancy, breastfeeding or allergy to a product ingredient, the procedure is usually postponed.
After the procedure the scalp may be tender and slightly red for a few days. The scalp is a richly supplied area, so small bruises can occur. Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners, have a clotting problem or have a skin condition such as seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis or lichen.
For severe pain, increasing redness, discharge, fever or widespread itching, contact the treating doctor without delay. Advice such as pausing hair washing and colouring on the first day is given by your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions of hair mesotherapy are done?
Number and interval vary with the cause of hair loss and the state of the scalp. A short course is usually planned and continuation is decided by watching the response. A firm number can only be given after examination.
Is hair mesotherapy painful?
The scalp is a sensitive area; even with fine needles you may feel pricking and tenderness. If you are sensitive to pain, you can discuss a surface numbing cream with your doctor.
Which blood tests may be requested for hair loss?
If the doctor considers it necessary, tests such as iron, ferritin, vitamin D, thyroid function and some hormone tests may be requested. Which tests are needed depends on your history and examination.
Does hair mesotherapy replace a hair transplant?
No. Hair mesotherapy is a supportive approach on existing hair roots and does not bring hair to areas where the roots have closed. A hair transplant is a separate procedure.
When can I wash my hair after hair mesotherapy?
The wait depends on the mixture used and the state of the scalp. Washing, colouring and heavy sweating are generally avoided on the first day; the exact timing is given by the treating doctor.
This content is for general information and does not replace a personal medical assessment.