Bio-PRP and GFC are two names you will hear often when exploring injection-based hair growth treatments. Are they the same? If not, which one works better? And how long should you use Minoxidil before judging your results?
In this article based on his educational video, Dr. John Watts — dermatologist, trichologist and hair transplant surgeon in Hyderabad with over 2,000 successful transplant surgeries — answers a viewer's questions on all three.
How long should Minoxidil be used?
Viewer Ranga Kumar, two months into Minoxidil use, asked how many years he needs to use it for good hair growth.
Dr. Watts explained that one needs to use Minoxidil lotion for at least a 6-month period before a doctor can assess the results. "It is hardly two months since you started using Minoxidil. Hence, it is suggested you wait for four months more. After that your doctor will take a call based on the results," he informed.
After the 6-month assessment, the patient may be asked to continue the medication — or, if the results are not good, the dermatologist may increase the dosage of the Minoxidil lotion.
Bio-PRP and GFC are not the same
Explaining the difference, Dr. Watts said both are different techniques. "In Bio PRP, Biotin serum is injected in the scalp along with PRP while GFC is an advanced form of PRP where only growth factor concentrate formed on the top layer of the PRP cells are used and injected in the scalp for promoting hair growth," he clarified.
Which technique is better?
On Bio-PRP, Dr. Watts noted there is no established scientific literature, and it is known to provide mixed results. "Some get good results while others are not so fortunate," he said.
GFC, on the other hand, is a consistent technique and has been found to provide better results than normal PRP therapy.
How many sessions do you need?
Though both Bio-PRP and GFC can give good results, Dr. Watts advised following the right protocol. "One should at least opt for 6-8 sessions of either Bio PRP or GFC to get desired results while maintaining a gap of 20-21 days between each session," he advised.
The bottom line
Bio-PRP adds biotin serum to PRP injections, while GFC is an advanced form of PRP using only the concentrated growth factors — and GFC has the more consistent track record. Whichever you choose, plan for 6-8 sessions spaced 20-21 days apart, and give Minoxidil a full six months before your doctor evaluates whether to continue or adjust the dose.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Bio-PRP and GFC?
In Bio-PRP, biotin serum is injected into the scalp along with PRP. GFC is an advanced form of PRP where only the growth factor concentrate from the top layer of PRP cells is injected to promote hair growth.
Which gives better results — Bio-PRP or GFC?
Bio-PRP has no established scientific literature and gives mixed results. GFC is a consistent technique found to provide better results than normal PRP therapy.
How many Bio-PRP or GFC sessions are needed?
At least 6-8 sessions, with a gap of 20-21 days between each session, to get the desired results.
How long should Minoxidil be used before assessing results?
At least 6 months. After that, the dermatologist will decide whether to continue the medication or increase the dosage based on the results.
