What is the Difference Between PRP and Mesotherapy?
What is the Difference Between PRP and Mesotherapy?
The most significant difference between PRP and mesotherapy is the source of the content used in the application. PRP is a procedure that uses platelet-rich plasma prepared from the person’s own blood. Mesotherapy, on the other hand, is not the name of a specific product by itself; it is an application method that involves injecting small amounts of different active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, peptides, or other substances chosen according to the purpose of the application, into the skin.
Therefore, there is no single answer to the question “Is PRP or mesotherapy better?” that can be applied to everyone. Skin quality, signs of aging, moisture loss, hair loss, the person’s general health condition, and the expected outcome from the treatment can determine which application is more suitable.
Another important point is that the two concepts are sometimes confused. Since PRP can be applied to the target area with microinjections, an injection method technically similar to mesotherapy can be used. However, in terms of the content used, PRP and classic mesotherapy are not the same application. On Op. Dr. Şükrü İşler Aesthetic Clinic’s PRP treatment page, it is also explained that PRP can be administered to the target area in a similar manner to mesotherapy application.
In Short, PRP or Mesotherapy?
In the shortest answer; PRP is based on a biological concentrate prepared from the person’s own blood, while mesotherapy is based on the administration of selected active ingredients into the skin with microinjections.
- PRP: It is prepared from the person’s own blood and aims to utilize platelets and the growth factors released from them.
- Mesotherapy: It is a method that allows different contents to be applied into the skin according to the purpose of use.
- In PRP: First, blood collection and centrifugation are required.
- In Mesotherapy: Generally, blood collection is not required.
- PRP content: It is based on the person’s own biological material.
- Mesotherapy content: It may vary depending on the product used and the treatment plan.
- Both applications: Can be evaluated in different areas such as skin or healthy scalp.
What is PRP?
PRP is the abbreviation for the English phrase “Platelet Rich Plasma” and can be defined in Turkish as platelet-rich plasma. For the application, a certain amount of the person’s own blood is taken. The blood is centrifuged within a special preparation system to separate its components, and a plasma section denser in platelets is obtained.
Platelets are not only cellular structures involved in blood clotting. They can also carry various growth factors and signaling molecules that play a role in tissue repair processes. The fundamental approach in PRP application is to utilize the potential of these biological components to support natural regeneration and repair processes in the targeted area.
PRP can be considered in aesthetic applications for supporting skin quality, treatment plans aimed at reducing signs of aging in the facial area, and as a supportive application for some types of hair loss. However, the area of use, session planning, and the person’s suitability for PRP must be determined by a physician’s evaluation.
For more detailed information about the PRP process, application frequency, and post-application process, the PRP Treatment page can be reviewed.
What is Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a method that involves administering specific substances to the target area in small doses via intradermal or superficial subcutaneous injections. Therefore, it is not correct to speak of a single standard content when referring to mesotherapy.
The contents of products used in skin mesotherapy and hair mesotherapy can be entirely different from each other. Even in two mesotherapy protocols performed for the same purpose, the products used, concentrations, application intervals, and number of sessions may vary.
In mesotherapy protocols aimed at supporting skin quality, hyaluronic acid, amino acids, peptides, or different components can be considered, depending on the purpose of use. For pigmentation or scalp applications, completely different substances may be used.
Therefore, when evaluating the effect of mesotherapy, simply saying “having mesotherapy” is not sufficient. Which product, with what content, at what concentration, for what purpose, and to which patient it will be applied is decisive for the outcome.
Are PRP and Mesotherapy the Same Thing?
No. Although PRP and mesotherapy are sometimes considered alternatives to each other in daily use, they are not the same thing.
The main reason for the confusion is that the application techniques can be similar. After PRP is prepared, it can be applied to the skin or scalp with small injections. Similarly, numerous small injections can be made in mesotherapy.
However, the similarity of the injection technique does not mean that the content used is the same. PRP is platelet-rich plasma prepared from the person’s own blood. Mesotherapy, on the other hand, is an application technique, and the active substances used within it are selected according to the purpose of the application.
Key Differences Between PRP and Mesotherapy
| Feature | PRP | Mesotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Source of content | Prepared from the person’s own blood | Ready-made contents selected according to the purpose of application can be used |
| Blood collection | Required | Generally not required |
| Basic approach | Utilization of platelets and biological growth factors | Direct administration of selected active substances to the target area |
| Content standard | Platelet concentration may vary depending on the preparation system | May vary significantly depending on the product used |
| Skin applications | Can be evaluated for the purpose of supporting skin quality and natural regeneration processes | Can be planned for moisture, skin quality, and different aesthetic needs |
| Scalp application | Can be evaluated as a supportive treatment for certain types of hair loss | Can be evaluated in scalp treatment plans according to the active substance used |
| Number of sessions | Planned according to the individual and the indication | Planned according to the product used and the indication |
| In terms of allergic reaction | Autologous material, meaning a material obtained from the person themselves, is used | Risk should be evaluated according to the content of the product used |
How Does PRP Work?
Platelets play an important role in the working principle of PRP. Various growth factors involved in tissue healing are found within and around platelets. The aim of the application is to support the tissue regeneration-related processes of this biological environment.
However, it is not scientifically accurate to define PRP as an application that “completely renews the skin”, “definitively grows hair”, or “stops aging”. Although studies on PRP report promising results, there are significant differences between preparation methods, platelet concentrations, number of applications, and evaluation methods used in research.
A scientific study evaluating systematic reviews published on PRP for facial rejuvenation states that although positive findings exist in current research, the quality of evidence is low or very low for many outcomes, and more standardized studies are needed. Detailed scientific evaluation can be accessed via National Library of Medicine – Evaluation of PRP and facial rejuvenation systematic reviews.
How Does Mesotherapy Work?
The effect of mesotherapy varies depending on the properties of the substance used. The fundamental principle of the method is the application of the active substance in small amounts to the targeted skin area.
For instance, the mechanism of action for a mesotherapy content used to support skin moisture may not be the same as a product used on the scalp. Therefore, the question “what is mesotherapy used for?” should actually be evaluated as “which mesotherapy content is being used for which problem?”
It is particularly emphasized in the international literature that mesotherapy is not a single type of procedure. For safe application, the product used, injection method, sterility, correct patient selection, and medical evaluation are important. Regarding the current scientific approach, the International Mesotherapy Safety and Evidence-Based Practice Consensus can be reviewed.
PRP or Mesotherapy: Which is Better for Skin Rejuvenation?
When choosing between PRP and mesotherapy for skin rejuvenation, it should first be determined what problem the individual is concerned about. Dull skin, moisture loss, fine lines, loss of elasticity, texture irregularities, and a decrease in overall skin quality are distinct needs.
PRP may stand out in treatment plans that aim to support natural regeneration mechanisms by utilizing a person’s own biological material. Mesotherapy, on the other hand, can offer different targeted options because its content can be selected according to need.
However, it is not correct to decide “PRP is needed” merely by looking at a person’s age, or “mesotherapy is better” just by assuming they have dry skin. Skin thickness, sun damage, pigmentation, active skin diseases, medications used, the person’s expectations, and previous aesthetic procedures (if any) should be evaluated together.
For general information about non-surgical aesthetic options, the Non-Surgical Aesthetics page can also be reviewed.
What Does PRP Aim to Achieve for the Skin?
The primary goal of PRP in skin applications is not to directly provide volume. Unlike filler applications, the purpose of PRP is to utilize biological regeneration mechanisms rather than physically adding significant volume to the tissue.
Depending on the individual’s skin structure, the treatment plan can be designed to support skin quality, achieve a more vibrant appearance, help reduce fine signs of aging, or be a combined approach with different applications.
While research results on facial rejuvenation show positive signals, the lack of standardization in PRP preparation protocols is stated as a significant limitation in scientific publications. Therefore, realistic expectations should be set regarding the results to be obtained from the treatment.
What Does Mesotherapy Aim to Achieve for the Skin?
The target in mesotherapy depends on the content of the product used. Protocols for skin quality can be planned to support moisture levels, make the skin surface appear more vibrant, or provide support for fine signs of aging.
The important point here is to know the content of the mesotherapy. The term “vitamin cocktail” frequently used on the internet is not sufficient to explain every application. Which active ingredients are used, the medical suitability of the product, the person’s allergy history, and the anatomical plane where the application will be performed must be evaluated by a physician.
Is PRP or Mesotherapy Better for Hair?
The question “PRP or mesotherapy for hair loss?” is among the most frequently compared topics for both applications. However, it should not be forgotten that hair loss does not have a single cause.
Androgenetic alopecia, hormonal problems, nutritional deficiencies, stress-related telogen effluvium, certain medications, dermatological diseases, and scarring hair diseases require different treatment approaches. First, the cause of hair loss must be evaluated, and then supportive procedures should be planned.
There are numerous studies investigating PRP, particularly in the field of androgenetic alopecia. A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating controlled studies reported that PRP could increase hair density in some measurements, although the quality of evidence was limited, and significant protocol differences were found among studies. The scientific study can be reviewed via the link: Systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of PRP in the treatment of alopecia.
In hair mesotherapy, however, the active ingredients used can vary greatly. In a systematic literature review evaluating the use of mesotherapy in hair loss, it is seen that protocols prepared with different drugs, growth factors, and other biological contents have been studied. The academic review on this topic can be accessed via PubMed – Systematic review of mesotherapy in hair loss.
What is the Difference Between Hair PRP and Hair Mesotherapy?
In hair PRP, platelet-rich plasma prepared from the individual’s own blood is applied to the scalp. In hair mesotherapy, however, products selected according to the targeted problem can be applied into the scalp.
Therefore, the main difference is again the content. The active biological source in PRP is a blood product belonging to the individual. In mesotherapy, however, the content to be applied is evaluated and selected by the physician.
There is no general rule that both applications must be performed on the same person or that their combined application alone will provide a stronger result. The decision for combined treatment should be made according to the individual’s hair loss type and examination findings.
Can PRP and Mesotherapy be Performed Together?
In suitable patients, it is possible to plan different aesthetic applications to complement each other. However, the simultaneous or periodically combined use of PRP and mesotherapy is not necessary for everyone.
For combination therapy to be logical, each application must address a separate need. Applying an unnecessary number of procedures targeting the same goal does not mean better results.
Therefore, PRP, mesotherapy, or a combination of other non-surgical aesthetic applications should be planned individually after examination.
When Do the Effects of PRP and Mesotherapy Become Visible?
In both applications, the timing of the results may vary depending on the individual, the applied area, the protocol used, and the target problem.
Since PRP’s approach relies on utilizing tissue regeneration processes, the evaluation of its effects may extend over a certain period. The PRP information page of Şükrü İşler Estetik Kliniği also states that results should not be expected immediately and that changes may appear with the sessions.
In mesotherapy, the duration of results varies even more depending on the content used. The evaluation time for a protocol aimed at supporting skin moisture is not the same as for a scalp application.
How Many PRP Sessions Are Performed?
There is no fixed number of PRP sessions that can be applied to everyone. The session intervals can be determined by evaluating the application area, the person’s age, skin or hair problem, the targeted result, and the response to treatment.
On the clinic’s current PRP Treatment information page, it is stated that applications can be planned at 2-4 week intervals. However, a personal treatment program should be created based on the examination results.
How Many Mesotherapy Sessions Are Performed?
In mesotherapy, it is also not correct to speak of a standard number of sessions. This is because “mesotherapy” is not a single product. The application program may vary as the active ingredient used, concentration, application area, and purpose change.
Therefore, it is not a correct approach for an individual to use the number of sessions of another patient they saw online as a reference for their own treatment.
Is PRP or Mesotherapy More Permanent?
The term “permanent” should be used carefully for PRP and mesotherapy. Neither application stops the aging process nor eliminates all biological processes causing hair loss.
The skin continues to age over time; sun exposure, smoking, lifestyle, genetic factors, and hormonal changes can affect skin quality. Similarly, genetic and hormonal mechanisms in hair loss may persist.
Therefore, the duration of the effects of the treatments varies depending on the individual and the problem being treated. Maintenance applications can be planned by the physician when necessary.
Is PRP or Mesotherapy More Natural?
The word “natural” alone is not a sufficient criterion for evaluating medical applications. However, a distinguishing feature of PRP is that the material used is derived from the patient’s own blood.
Therefore, an autologous biological product is used instead of a foreign active substance. However, this does not mean that PRP carries no risks. The blood collection process, injection, sterility, and the patient’s health status are still important.
In mesotherapy, on the other hand, the content is applied externally. The nature of the substance used and the patient’s suitability for that product should be evaluated.
Is PRP or Mesotherapy More Painful?
Pain is a subjective experience that varies from person to person. Since both PRP and mesotherapy can involve numerous small injections, stinging, burning, or sensitivity may be felt during the procedure.
The degree of discomfort can be affected by the injection technique used, the application area, the individual’s pain threshold, and the product used. If deemed appropriate before the procedure, methods to increase comfort can be evaluated.
Is Bruising Expected After PRP or Mesotherapy?
Since both procedures involve needle application, temporary redness, sensitivity, mild swelling, or bruising may be observed due to the impact on small blood vessels.
The preparation of PRP from the individual’s own blood does not entirely eliminate mechanical side effects related to the injection. In mesotherapy, in addition to the injection effects, the possibility of product-specific reactions should also be considered.
What Are the Side Effects of PRP?
Although PRP uses autologous material, it is not entirely risk-free. Temporary redness, sensitivity, swelling, and bruising may be observed in the application area. As with any injection procedure, failure to adhere to sterile conditions can increase the risk of infection.
Furthermore, medications used, problems related to bleeding and coagulation, active infections, and the individual’s general health status are factors that should be considered in PRP planning.
Therefore, the suitability of PRP should be determined not only by aesthetic expectations but also by medical history and examination.
What Are the Side Effects of Mesotherapy?
Reactions that may be observed in mesotherapy can stem from both the injection procedure and the product applied. Temporary redness, sensitivity, swelling, itching, or bruising may be seen.
Depending on the ingredients used, the possibility of allergic or inflammatory reactions may also vary. Furthermore, injection depth, the suitability of the products used, and sterility are important for safety.
Therefore, the risks of mixtures with unknown contents or applications performed without medical evaluation should not be ignored.
Who Might Not Be Suitable for PRP?
Before PRP is applied, the individual’s health history needs to be evaluated in detail. Certain diseases related to the blood and coagulation system, some medications being used, active infections, pregnancy/lactation period, or different systemic diseases can affect the treatment decision.
Therefore, a general approach like “PRP can be applied to everyone” is not correct. Medications being used and known diseases must be fully reported to the physician during the consultation.
Who Might Not Be Suitable for Mesotherapy?
In mesotherapy, suitability assessment should be made according to the product used. A health condition that is not problematic for one content may be important for another active ingredient.
Pregnancy or lactation, active infection, dermatological problems in the application area, known allergies, some systemic diseases, and medications being used can be taken into consideration during the evaluation.
Therefore, the fact that a person has previously had mesotherapy done at another center does not automatically mean that a new product is also suitable.
How to Choose Between PRP and Mesotherapy?
The right choice should not begin with the question “which procedure is more popular?” but with the question “which problem do we want to solve?”
During the examination, first, the nature of the skin or hair problem should be determined. Then, the individual’s age, skin type, general health status, medications used, previous procedures, and expectations should be evaluated.
For instance, trying to solve significant tissue sagging in the face area solely with PRP or mesotherapy may not be appropriate. In some individuals, different non-surgical facelift applications or different aesthetic options may need to be considered.
Similarly, in a person with a scar problem, instead of focusing solely on general skin rejuvenation, the type of scar should be evaluated. Detailed information on this topic can also be obtained from the Scar Treatment page.
Does PRP or Mesotherapy Give Better Results?
From a scientific perspective, it is not possible to answer this question by saying “PRP is always better” or “mesotherapy is always more effective.”
In PRP studies, the fact that preparation methods differ from each other is a significant problem. In mesotherapy, this variability is even greater because the active ingredients used are different from each other.
Therefore, when comparing results, not only the names of the applications but also the patient’s problem, the product or PRP protocol used, the session schedule, and the outcome criteria evaluated in the studies should be taken into consideration.
Is there a Price Difference Between PRP and Mesotherapy?
It is not correct to compare PRP and mesotherapy prices in a fixed manner. In PRP, the kit used, the preparation method, and the number of planned sessions; in mesotherapy, the content, quantity, application area of the product used, and session planning can affect the cost.
Therefore, instead of just looking at the session price, it would be more accurate to evaluate which procedure is recommended and why, and how many applications the treatment plan consists of.
What Should Be Considered When Choosing Between PRP and Mesotherapy?
- Firstly, the skin or hair problem needs to be correctly evaluated.
- The medical evaluation by the physician performing the application is important.
- Attention should be paid to the preparation system used in PRP and sterility.
- The content of the product to be applied in mesotherapy needs to be known.
- Unrealistic promises of results should be approached cautiously.
- It should not be thought that a single application will solve all aesthetic problems.
- Used medications and existing diseases should be reported to the physician.
- The number of sessions should be planned individually, not according to other people’s schedules.
What to Pay Attention to After PRP and Mesotherapy?
Post-application recommendations may vary depending on the treated area and the method used. Generally, it is important not to unnecessarily irritate the application area, to adhere to the care plan recommended by the physician, and especially in facial applications, to pay attention to sun protection.
In case of intense redness, progressively increasing pain, significant swelling, or the development of an unusual reaction, the healthcare professional who performed the application should be contacted.
Why is it Important Not to Confuse PRP with Mesotherapy?
Viewing PRP and mesotherapy as the same application can lead to incorrect expectations from the treatment. Although the definition “skin application done with a needle” makes the two methods seem similar, the difference in the biological or pharmacological content used changes the logic of the treatment.
In PRP, the basic material is prepared from the patient’s own blood, while in mesotherapy, a product suitable for the application purpose is selected. This distinction is important for side effect evaluation, patient selection, and outcome expectations.
What Do Scientific Studies Say About PRP?
PRP has been researched for a long time, especially in the fields of hair loss and aesthetic dermatology. Some studies have reported positive results in terms of skin quality, hair density, or patient satisfaction.
However, a study published in 2024 that collectively evaluated systematic reviews on PRP for facial rejuvenation states that a significant portion of the existing research has methodological limitations, PRP preparation methods are not standardized, and higher quality randomized studies are needed for definitive results.
Therefore, the fact that PRP is a scientifically researched method and the claim that it will provide definitive results in every individual should be distinguished from each other.
What Do Scientific Studies Say About Mesotherapy?
When evaluating the mesotherapy literature, the most important issue is distinguishing between the active ingredients used. Since mesotherapy is not a single drug or a single formulation, it is not possible to consolidate the scientific evidence for all mesotherapy applications under a single conclusion.
While systematic reviews in the field of hair loss include studies with different drugs, growth factors, and combinations, the ingredients used for skin rejuvenation can be entirely different.
International consensus publications particularly recommend considering proper indication, safe injection technique, product selection, patient information, and the level of scientific evidence.
Additional source: Systematic review of mesotherapy: a novel avenue for the treatment of hair loss.
PRP or Mesotherapy? Which one should ultimately be preferred?
When choosing between PRP and mesotherapy, the individual’s needs are more important than the name of the procedure. While PRP utilizes platelet-rich plasma obtained from the person’s own blood, mesotherapy is a method that allows for the direct application of various active ingredients to the target area.
For problems such as supporting skin quality, signs of aging, or hair loss, both applications can be considered within different treatment plans. However, the choice of treatment should not be made based on comparisons found on the internet or on the results achieved by another person.
The most accurate approach is to evaluate the individual’s skin or hair structure, understand their expectations, review their medical history, and then determine the appropriate method.
The initial examination/consultation at Op. Dr. Şükrü İşler Aesthetic Clinic is free of charge. A personalized plan can be made during the first consultation to evaluate which of PRP, mesotherapy, or other non-surgical aesthetic options is more suitable for your needs. For information and appointments, you can reach the clinic via the contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest difference between PRP and mesotherapy?
The biggest difference is the content used. PRP is platelet-rich plasma prepared from the person’s own blood. Mesotherapy, on the other hand, is a method that involves applying various active ingredients into the skin through small injections.
Is PRP mesotherapy?
PRP can be applied with microinjection techniques similar to mesotherapy, but it is not the same as mesotherapy in the classical sense. The content used in PRP is prepared from the person’s own blood.
Is PRP or mesotherapy more effective?
No single method is more effective for every situation. The result may vary depending on the problem being treated, the patient’s characteristics, the PRP preparation method, or the content used in mesotherapy.
Is PRP or mesotherapy better for the skin?
It depends on the skin’s needs. If the goal is to support skin quality through biological regeneration mechanisms, PRP can be considered. If a more targeted application with specific active ingredients is desired, an appropriate mesotherapy protocol can be considered. The decision should be made after examination.
Is PRP or mesotherapy better for hair loss?
First, the cause of hair loss should be determined. PRP and mesotherapy can be considered as supportive treatments for some types of hair loss; however, the same treatment is not suitable for everyone.
Is blood drawn for PRP?
Yes. Since PRP is prepared from the person’s own blood, a certain amount of blood must be drawn before the procedure. The drawn blood is centrifuged to prepare the platelet-rich plasma portion.
Is blood drawn for mesotherapy?
In classical mesotherapy applications, it is generally not necessary to draw blood. A product prepared or selected according to the targeted problem is directly administered to the application area.
Are PRP and mesotherapy performed in the same session?
In some treatment plans, different methods can be combined; however, whether their application in the same session is necessary should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Performing more procedures does not automatically mean better results.
Which is more effective for a longer duration: PRP or mesotherapy?
It is not possible to give a definitive duration. Skin structure, the reason for hair loss, lifestyle, application protocol, and the individual’s response to the treatment can change the duration of effect.
Does PRP cause allergies?
Since PRP is obtained from the person’s own blood, the issue of content allergy similar to active ingredients in a foreign mesotherapy product is not evaluated in the same way. However, reactions or complications related to the injection and other stages of the procedure cannot be completely ruled out.
Can mesotherapy cause allergies?
Depending on the product used, there may be a possibility of developing allergic or inflammatory reactions. Therefore, the content of the product to be applied should be known after evaluating the person’s known allergies.
Do PRP and mesotherapy replace fillers?
Generally, no. One of the primary aims of filler applications is to create volume or refine contours in specific areas. The main goal in PRP and skin mesotherapy is generally to support skin quality. The purposes of the applications are different from each other.
Does PRP cause facial swelling?
PRP is not a filler and its primary purpose is not to create permanent volume. Temporary mild swelling due to injections may be observed immediately after the procedure.
At what age are PRP and mesotherapy performed?
There is no standard starting age determined solely by age. The need for the application should be evaluated based on the individual’s skin or hair problem, health status, and expectations.
Is an examination required before undergoing PRP or mesotherapy?
Yes. A consultation with a physician is important for determining the method to be applied, evaluating the individual’s health history, and setting realistic expectations. At Op. Dr. Şükrü İşler Aesthetic Clinic, the first examination/consultation is free. After a personal assessment, it can be determined whether PRP, mesotherapy, or a different application is more suitable.
Important Information: This content has been prepared for general informational purposes. It does not replace diagnosis or personalized treatment recommendations. The suitability of PRP, mesotherapy, or other medical aesthetic applications for an individual should be determined as a result of a physician’s examination.
