Which Blood Tests Are Needed Before PRP Therapy?

Blood tests before PRP therapy: CBC, coagulation, infection screening, ferritin, vitamin D, and when a wider hair-loss panel is needed — a practical guide from Radeski Skin Clinic.

What is PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy?

PRP uses a patient’s own blood to create plasma concentrated with platelets, then delivers it with microinjections into facial skin or the scalp. The aim is to bring growth factors to the treatment area — supporting skin quality or helping hair follicles.

Because the material comes from the patient, PRP is usually well tolerated. Still, safety and results depend on blood quality and overall health. That is why lab tests before PRP are not paperwork for its own sake — they are part of proper medical preparation.

At Radeski Skin Clinic, a doctor consults the patient first, reviews indications and contraindications, and orders the lab panel that actually fits the case.

Why test before PRP?

Laboratory work helps to:

• spot contraindications early (acute infection, significant anemia, major clotting problems, and similar issues);
• judge blood quality for PRP — especially platelet count;
• find hidden inflammation or systemic changes;
• reduce bleeding-related risks of an injection procedure;
• in hair loss — clarify contributors such as iron stores, vitamin D, or hormones;
• keep treatment expectations realistic.

In short: PRP is sometimes done with a minimal workup, but a smart lab plan usually makes care safer and more effective.

Which tests are most often needed?

The list below covers common blocks. It is not a single mandatory checklist for everyone. The final panel is chosen by the doctor based on the goal (skin rejuvenation vs hair) and health history.

1. Complete blood count (CBC)

The usual starting test before PRP.

It shows:

• hemoglobin and red cells (anemia screening);
• platelet count — the working resource of PRP;
• white cells and inflammation clues;
• the overall blood picture.

If platelets are low, the finished PRP may carry fewer growth factors. That is why CBC matters so much.

2. Coagulation profile

Often includes:

• prothrombin time;
• INR;
• aPTT;
• fibrinogen.

For injections, bleeding and bruising risk should be understood in advance. Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs also matter — tell your doctor about every medication you take.

3. Blood biochemistry

Depending on the case, a doctor may add:

• ALT, AST, bilirubin (liver);
• creatinine, urea (kidneys);
• total protein;
• glucose.

This block reviews the body’s internal background. Marked abnormalities may need more evaluation or correction before elective PRP.

4. Infection screening

Commonly considered tests include:

• HIV;
• hepatitis B;
• hepatitis C;
• syphilis.

These are safety standards in many medical settings. Exact requirements follow clinic protocol and the doctor’s judgment.

5. Ferritin (especially for hair loss)

In hair shedding, ferritin is one of the most useful markers. Hemoglobin can look “normal” while latent iron deficiency still exists. In that situation, PRP alone may underperform until iron stores improve.

6. Vitamin D

Low vitamin D often accompanies:

• hair shedding;
• slower hair growth;
• poorer skin quality.

With a clear deficiency, correcting levels first can be more sensible than rushing into a full PRP course.

7. Hormones and extra tests (when indicated)

If hair loss has an unclear cause or clinical clues point that way, the doctor may add:

• TSH, free T4;
• vitamin B12, folate, zinc;
• DHEA-S;
• total and free testosterone;
• prolactin;
• LH, FSH;
• estradiol when indicated.

The panel depends on sex, age, symptoms, and history. The goal is not “more tests,” but finding the cause.

Does everyone need the full panel?

No.

For facial rejuvenation in an otherwise healthy person, a typical minimum is often:

• complete blood count;
• coagulation profile;
• infection screening required by the clinic or doctor.

For hair loss, the workup is usually wider: ferritin, vitamin D, and hormones when needed. Shedding is a symptom; without addressing the driver, injections alone rarely give a lasting result.

How to prepare for blood tests

For more reliable results:

• give blood in the morning, fasting;
• avoid alcohol the day before;
• skip intense workouts beforehand;
• stay hydrated;
• list all medicines and supplements for your doctor.

Iron, biotin, hormones, and blood thinners can affect results. Do not stop prescribed treatment on your own — discuss it first.

When can PRP be done after testing?

Many results stay useful for about 10–30 days, but there is no universal hard expiry. The doctor decides based on the clinical picture. A cold, fever, or new medication may change timing.

The Radeski Skin Clinic approach

At Radeski Skin Clinic, PRP is performed by experienced specialists using certified systems and sterile protocols. Every patient starts with a consultation covering indications, contraindications, and the right lab scope.

The aim is not one identical package for all — it is a safe, logical individual plan.

Bottom line

Tests before PRP help rule out contraindications, raise safety, and (especially in hair loss) clarify the cause. Not everyone needs a long identical list — the doctor selects the volume. Good preparation makes the procedure more reliable and purposeful.