Stem Cell Treatment for Hair Loss 2025

Stem cell therapy for hair loss is showing promising results in clinical studies, with some patients experiencing increased hair growth and density within months. But how does it work, and is it worth considering?


To learn more about how Stem Cell Therapy works, our explainer article might be useful. If you’re considering Stem Cell Therapy, our team can guide you in deciding if it’s the right fit, help you choose the best clinic & region, and even assist you in securing some great discounts! Fill in our form here to set up a conversation.

Why am I losing my Hair?

Hair loss can happen for many reasons, genetics, hormones, aging, or medical conditions. It’s not just about losing a few extra strands in the shower. This can be a really horrible experience for some! 

While some types, like androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness), happen gradually due to genetics and hormones, others, like alopecia areata, are caused by the immune system attacking hair follicles. Understanding why hair loss occurs is key to figuring out whether stem cell therapy can help with hair regrowth.

The Hair Growth Cycle: How Hair Normally Works

Your hair isn’t meant to grow forever! It follows a natural hair growth cycle that includes four main phases:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase) – This is when your hair is actively growing. It lasts 2-7 years, depending on genetics.
2. Catagen (Transition Phase) – A short 2-week phase where the hair follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply.
3. Telogen (Resting Phase) – Hair stays in place for about 3 months, but new hair is forming underneath.
4. Exogen (Shedding Phase) – The old hair falls out, making room for new hair to grow.
   
   
   In a healthy scalp, this cycle continues smoothly, and new hair replaces the old. But when something disrupts this cycle, hair thinning or baldness can occur.

What Causes Hair Loss?

There are several reasons why people experience hair loss, including:

• Genetics & Hormones (Androgenetic Alopecia) – Also known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss, this is the most common cause. It’s triggered by Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles over time, leading to thinner, weaker hair until they stop producing hair altogether.
• Aging & Slowed Hair Follicle Renewal – As we age, our stem cell activity declines, meaning fewer new hair follicles are produced. This leads to gradual hair thinning and slower regrowth.
• Nutritional Deficiencies & Poor Scalp Health – Lack of iron, vitamin D, biotin, or protein can weaken hair follicles. A buildup of sebum, dandruff, or scalp inflammation can also contribute to hair loss.
• Autoimmune & Medical Conditions (Alopecia Areata) – Some forms of hair loss, like alopecia areata, occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing sudden bald spots.
• Stress, Medication & Lifestyle Factors – Chronic stress, crash dieting, or medications like chemotherapy drugs, beta-blockers, or antidepressants can lead to temporary or permanent hair loss (telogen effluvium).

Do Minoxidil & Finasteride work for Thinning Hair?

Yes, Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia) can help slow hair thinning and, in some cases, regrow hair, but they don’t create brand-new follicles. They only strengthen existing ones:

• Minoxidil (Rogaine) – Boosts blood flow to the scalp and helps extend the hair growth phase. It can thicken existing hair and even regrow some, but if your follicles are completely gone, it won’t bring them back.
• Finasteride (Propecia) – Blocks DHT, the hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink in male pattern baldness. It can slow hair loss and, in some cases, regrow hair, but once you stop taking it, hair loss often starts up again.
  
  So where does stem cell therapy fit in? Instead of just maintaining what’s left, it helps revive weak or dormant follicles. It won’t magically grow hair where there are no follicles at all, but it could wake up follicles that other treatments aren’t helping. It works even better with PRP or other therapies.
  

How Stem Cell Therapy works for Hair Loss

Stem cell therapy is gaining attention as a potential way to combat hair loss by helping dormant hair follicles wake up, encouraging new growth, and improving overall scalp health. 

While scientists are still studying exactly how it works, the evidence so far suggests that stem cells don’t turn into hair follicles themselves. Instead, they act more like messengers, sending out growth factors and signals that help kickstart the hair growth process.Different types of stem cells are being explored for this, and each one works a little differently.

Some are great at reducing inflammation, while others are better at improving blood flow or directly stimulating the follicle. We’re broken them down below (or if you want to read more on the actual science, this review & this one go into more detail.

Types of Stem Cells used in Hair Treatments

Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs)
ADSCs are one of the most researched stem cell types for hair restoration, mainly because they’re easy to obtain (from fat tissue) and packed with regenerative potential. These cells don’t turn into hair follicles themselves but instead release powerful growth factors like VEGF, IGF-1, and FGF—all of which help nourish follicles, improve blood flow, and create a healthier environment for hair growth.

Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells (BMSCs)
BMSCs have been studied for their ability to help with tissue repair and reduce inflammation. Which can create a better environment for hair growth. While they don’t directly turn into hair follicles, they release important signaling molecules that may improve follicle survival and function.

That said, BMSCs aren’t as commonly used for hair loss treatments. Mainly because extracting them from bone marrow is invasive, whereas adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are much easier to obtain from fat tissue.

Hair Follicle Stem Cells (HFSCs)
HFSCs live inside the hair follicle itself, specifically in the bulge region, and they’re directly involved in hair growth. Unlike ADSCs or BMSCs, which work by sending out growth signals, HFSCs are already built for follicle repair and regeneration. Research suggests that they may help extend the anagen (growth) phase of hair follicles, which could lead to thicker, healthier hair over time.

Umbilical Cord-Derived Stem Cells (UC-MSCs) for Hair Loss
Right now, there isn’t tons of research  covering umbilical cord-derived stem cells (UC-MSCs) for hair loss, so their effectiveness in hair regeneration isn’t well-documented yet. That said, UC-MSCs are known for their strong regenerative abilities, mainly by sending out growth signals that reduce inflammation and support follicle health. Some researchers believe they could be useful for conditions like autoimmune-related hair loss, but for now, there’s not enough evidence to say for sure.

Paracrine Signaling and Growth Factors

One of the biggest takeaways from current research is that stem cells don’t turn into hair follicles themselves. Instead, they send out signals that activate the body’s own follicular stem cells. This process, called paracrine signaling, involves releasing molecules like VEGF, IGF-1, and FGF, which improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and create a healthier environment for hair growth.

Another key player in hair regeneration is the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This pathway helps kickstart dormant follicles, pushing them from the resting (telogen) phase into the active growth (anagen) phase, which is essential for new hair growth.

Can Stem Cells regrow hair?

Yes, stem cell therapy may help regrow hair by repairing damaged follicles and stimulating new growth, but it’s still in the early stages of research & it hasn’t been proven to work for everyone. Some studies show that adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can reduce inflammation and improve hair density. Right now, it might not be as effective as a hair transplant but it’s definitely less invasive.

How much does stem cell therapy for Hair Loss cost in 2025?

Stem cell therapy for hair loss costs between $3,000 and $10,000 per session, making it one of the pricier options compared to PRP and hair transplants. Depending on the country you’re getting treatment in, affects the price. We’re getting more specific data on this for every region, bear with us!

What’s better – Stem Cells, Hair Transplants or PRP for hair growth?

For advanced hair loss, hair transplants are the best choice since they permanently move healthy hair to bald areas. PRP and stem cell therapy can help with thinning hair, but they can’t regrow lost follicles. BUT, hair transplants are way more invasive, you have to weigh up the pro’s and cons!

Here’s a breakdown for you:

Stem Cell Hair Loss Treatment Process: What to expect

1. Extracting the Stem Cells – The most common sources are bone marrow, fat tissue (ADSCs), or umbilical cord-derived MSCs. These cells are rich in growth factors that promote tissue repair.
2. Processing and Activation (if required) – Some treatments use fresh stem cells, while others may process them in a lab to concentrate regenerative factors before injection.
3. Injecting the Stem Cells – The prepared stem cells are injected into areas of hair thinning or baldness, often using microneedling or direct scalp injections to ensure better absorption.
4. Stimulating Hair Follicles – Stem cells don’t turn into hair follicles, but they send signals that activate dormant follicles, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation. Creating better conditions for hair growth.
5. Long-Term Effects – Unlike traditional treatments like PRP, which mainly enhances existing hair follicles, stem cell therapy aims to repair and regenerate hair follicles at a deeper level. Potentially leading to more sustained regrowth.

Why Stem Cells?

• MSCs & ADSCs release growth factors that promote hair follicle survival.
• They reduce inflammation, which is often linked to hair loss.
• They improve scalp blood circulation, delivering nutrients to weakened follicles.

Stem Cell Hair Transplants vs. Stem Cell Injections – Which Is Best?

Stem cell transplants are a better option for advanced hair loss or severe conditions like alopecia. They’re  more powerful than injections because they use lab-expanded cells, delivering a much higher dose. Stem cell injections use a smaller amount of cells, and are best for early-stage hair thinning. Here’s deeper breakdown:

While both aim to regrow hair, the real difference comes down to how many Stem Cells are used and how they’re prepared.

• Stem Cell Injections: This approach uses a smaller number of stem cells, often taken from your own fat tissue (adipose-derived stem cells or ADSCs) or bone marrow. The cells are minimally processed and injected directly into the scalp. It’s a simpler, quicker option that works well for early-stage hair thinning or mild hair loss.
• Stem Cell Transplants: Here’s where things get supercharged. Stem cells are collected, cultured, and expanded in a lab to create a much higher concentration. These “super cells” are then injected into the scalp, making this method ideal for advanced hair loss or more severe conditions like alopecia. Clinics often use two main sources:
  – Adipose Tissue (ADSCs): Expanded stem cells taken from fat tissue.
  – Umbilical Cord-Derived MSCs (UC-MSCs): Donor stem cells known for their potency and anti-inflammatory properties.

That said, availability can be tricky. Countries like Japan and UAE allow cultured stem cells, but in the US, regulations are tighter, and expanded cells are only available through clinical trials.

The Bottom Line:

Both options have shown promise! But stem cell transplants tend to offer greater potential due to the higher concentration of Stem Cells used. 

• Transplants: Higher cell numbers, cultured in labs, and suitable for advanced hair loss.
  

• Injections: Smaller cell volumes, minimally invasive, and ideal for mild hair loss.

What are the success rates for Stem Cell Therapy Treating Hair Loss?

One clinical study showed that stem cell therapy for hair loss worked for 67% of participants, whilst another showed a 29% increase in hair density. BUT honestly, results vary and the process still needs work. 

Positive Outcomes from Studies:

• Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs): A study at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in Jakarta found that 67% of participants experienced thicker and denser hair within six weeks​. (read more here)
  
• Combination with PRP: Another study combining ADSCs with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) reported a 29% increase in hair density, showing that combining treatments can enhance results​(American Hair Loss Association).
• Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs): Trials show that MSCs activate the Wnt signaling pathway, which is essential for hair growth. Participants with pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia) reported visible hair density improvements.
• Encouraging Success Rates: A 2024 review on stem cell therapy for hair loss found that most patients saw real improvements in hair count and thickness within months. Many studies reported noticeable regrowth, with some people experiencing denser hair and better scalp coverage. (Check it out here)
  
• Minimal Side Effects & Good Safety Profile: Most studies in the review found that stem cell treatments were well-tolerated, with little to no serious side effects. The most common reactions were mild scalp irritation, temporary swelling, or slight discomfort at the injection sites. All of these were resolved on their own.

Negatives and Limitations the studies showed:

• Short-Term Data: Most studies only follow participants for 6 to 12 months, meaning we don’t have a complete picture of the long-term effectiveness. It’s possible that multiple sessions might be necessary to maintain results over time​

• Not for Everyone: Results can vary. Some people experience impressive growth, while others see minimal changes. This means stem cell treatment might not work equally for everyone.

• Regulatory & Research Gaps: While early results are promising, more high-quality, randomized clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of stem cell therapy for hair loss

To read more about the recent research & current studies, check out this article where we’ve collated all the recent studies and trials for Stem Cells treating hair loss.

Benefits of Stem Cells for Hair Loss

1. Minimally Invasive: Unlike hair transplants, stem cell therapy is less invasive, reducing downtime and recovery.
2. Natural Regrowth: It uses your body’s cells, so it’s a more natural way to stimulate hair growth.
3. Versatile Application: It can address various types of hair loss, from androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness) to alopecia areata.
4. No Hormonal Side Effects: Unlike finasteride, which can cause sexual side effects like loss of libido and erectile dysfunction, stem cell therapy works without altering hormone levels.

Risks and Challenges of Stem Cell Hair Loss Treatments

• Types of Stem Cells used : Type of Stem Cells Used: Different stem cells, such as adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs), have varying capacities for promoting hair regrowth. The choice of stem cell type can impact treatment outcomes.
• Cost: Treatments can be pricey, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per session, and insurance usually doesn’t cover it.
• Safety and Efficacy: Early results look promising, with many patients seeing thicker, healthier hair after treatment. But since most studies only track results for a year or less, we still don’t know how long the benefits last or if multiple sessions are needed to maintain growth. More research is needed to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness

Stem Cell Hair Treatments: US, UK, and Australia Regulations Explained

• United States: Stem cell treatments for hair loss are tightly regulated by the FDA and considered experimental. Clinics can only use minimally manipulated cells. Like those derived from fat tissue (ADSCs) or bone marrow and they can’t grow or culture cells in a lab, limiting the number of cells offered per treatment.
• United Kingdom: Stem cell treatments for hair loss are available in private clinics, with options like adipose-derived stem cells. The UK offers more flexibility than the US too, meaning you can access higher cell volumes.
• Australia: In Australia, clinics stick to using adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) for hair loss treatments, as they’re approved under strict TGA guidelines. Umbilical cord MSCs aren’t an option here unless it’s part of an official clinical trial

To learn more about differences in treatment levels in other countries like Japan & Colombia, check out our article on The Best Countries for Stem Cell Therapy.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Stem Cell Treatment for Baldness?

• People with mild to moderate hair loss (e.g., androgenic alopecia).
• Those who haven’t seen success with PRP or other therapies.
• Patients seeking a natural, minimally invasive option.

Note: Stem Cell Therapy may not work for advanced baldness where hair follicles are completely inactive.

How long does it take to see results?

Most patients begin to notice results like thicker, denser hair within 3–6 months. Improvements may continue over time, with some people needing multiple sessions for sustained growth.

What to Expect: Stem Cell Hair Treatment Before and After

After treatment:

1. First Few Days: Mild redness or swelling in the scalp (temporary).
2. 3–6 Months: Noticeable improvements in hair texture, thickness, and density.
3. Long-Term: Results vary—some may need follow-up sessions every 12–18 months to maintain results.

Is Stem Cell Treatment for Hair Loss Worth It?

Maybe… Stem cell treatment for hair loss is a promising, minimally invasive option that may improve hair density and thickness. But long-term results are still being studied.

While it offers a natural alternative to PRP and hair transplants, it’s most effective for early-to-moderate hair loss rather than full bald spots. 

Stem cell therapy is still expensive and experimental, with studies showing short-term improvements but limited data on lasting results. If you’re looking for a permanent fix, hair transplants remain the gold standard. But if you want something less invasive, Stem Cells might be an option for you.

To learn about other conditions Stem Cells can help with, check out our article on What Conditions Stem Cell Therapy can help with.