What it is
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from a person's own blood, which is processed to concentrate platelets and then applied to the scalp or skin. Microneedling uses very fine needles to create tiny controlled pinpricks in the skin surface. The two are sometimes combined in a single visit.
Stem cell therapy for skin and hair is a broader and less settled term. It may refer to products made from fat tissue (adipose or SVF), umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly or other perinatal sources. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products for certain blood and immune disorders, used in specialist transplant settings. Stem-cell products marketed for cosmetic skin or hair use are not FDA-approved.
Exosomes are tiny particles released by cells, and they're often marketed as 'regenerative' for skin and hair. No exosome product is FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products. Evidence for these uses is limited or investigational, and a 'holistic' or 'natural' label does not change a product's FDA status.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Skin and hair concerns have traditionally been approached by dermatologists and other licensed clinicians through an evaluation of the cause, which may include medical history, a physical exam and sometimes lab work. Approaches vary widely depending on the concern, from topical products and prescription options to procedures.
PRP and microneedling are procedures that licensed aesthetic and hair clinics have offered for some time. How they are performed, and how much supporting evidence exists for a given concern, varies, and individual experiences differ.
Newer offerings such as stem-cell-derived and exosome products are more recent and, in the U.S., largely unapproved for these purposes. Some are discussed in research settings. Whether any option is appropriate is something only a licensed clinician can decide after an evaluation.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help you understand what is behind your skin or hair concern before talking about any procedure. A visit generally starts with questions about your health history, medications and goals, followed by an exam. A careful provider will explain options, including doing nothing or choosing more established approaches.
When comparing PRP, microneedling and exosome claims, you can ask: What exactly is this product and where does it come from? What is its FDA status? Is this a registered study on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight? What are the risks, the alternatives, and what is uncertain?
It also helps to ask who will perform the procedure and to confirm their license with your state medical board. A good provider should offer written informed consent covering risks and alternatives, give you time to decide, and never promise specific results.
The whole-person view
Skin and hair are often tied to how we feel about ourselves, and body, mind and stress influence each other. Stress, sleep, nutrition and hormonal changes may all play a role in how skin and hair look and feel, and worry about appearance can add to that stress in return.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helpful for working with stress held in the body. Others value talking with a licensed counselor through Therapists.plus when appearance concerns affect confidence or mood. These are complementary options that respect, rather than replace, medical care.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Educational only: this page is not medical advice, and only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation.
- Most clinic stem-cell, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, adipose/SVF and exosome products are not FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products.
- Watch for red flags: cure-all or 'treats everything' claims, paying to join a 'clinical trial', testimonials offered in place of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across states for treatment.
- If a sudden hair loss, skin change or reaction feels serious, contact a licensed professional. For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988.
Providers who often help
Get matched privatelyFrequently asked questions
Is stem cell therapy for hair loss FDA-approved?
No. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products for certain blood and immune disorders. Stem-cell products marketed for hair or skin are not FDA-approved. Ask any provider about the FDA status of what they offer.
What is the difference between PRP and stem cell therapy?
PRP uses concentrated platelets from your own blood, while stem cell products are made from cell-containing tissues such as fat or umbilical cord. They are different things, though clinics sometimes market them together. Neither is a guaranteed solution, and a licensed clinician can explain what is being used.
Are exosome treatments for skin and hair approved?
No exosome product is FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved exosome products. Evidence for cosmetic uses is limited or investigational. Ask a provider for the product's regulatory status in writing.
Does microneedling work for skin or hair?
Microneedling is an established procedure offered by licensed providers, but how well it suits a given concern varies from person to person. A provider can discuss what is known, what is uncertain and whether it fits your situation. No outcome can be promised.
How can I check if a skin or hair clinic is trustworthy?
Confirm the clinician's license with your state medical board and ask for the FDA status of every product. If a study is involved, verify it is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight. Expect written informed consent that covers risks and alternatives.
What red flags should I watch for with stem cell therapy claims?
Be cautious of cure-all claims, being asked to pay to join a 'clinical trial', testimonials used instead of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across states. Calling a treatment 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change its FDA status. Take your time and talk with a licensed clinician.
Educational resource. StemCell.biz shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.