There is minimal research on autologous fat cell derived stem cells. Does this work or not? (Photo)

Question

Does scalp / hairline injection of autologous stem cell fraction from fat cells actually work for slowing hair loss or helping regrowth or is this a waste of time?

Mahmood Siddique, DO · Answer

Scalp injections using autologous fat-derived stem cell fractions (stromal vascular fraction or SVF) are an emerging approach in hair restoration, but clinical research is still limited.
Some early studies and anecdotal reports suggest that these injections may help:
* Stimulate hair follicle activity* Improve scalp health* Support mild to moderate hair regrowth
However, results are variable, and the treatment is not yet standardized or FDA-approved for hair loss. Effectiveness may depend on the technique used, the patient's hair loss pattern, and whether it's combined with other therapies like PRP or microneedling.
In short: it's not a guaranteed solution, but not necessarily a waste of time&mdash;just an evolving area with promising, yet still preliminary, data.

Marco Barusco, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Scalp injections of autologous stem cell fractions from fat cells show promise for slowing hair loss and promoting regrowth, but results can vary. While some studies and anecdotal reports suggest positive outcomes, the evidence is still emerging, and the procedure isn’t universally proven or standardized. It may help improve hair density and quality in some cases, but it’s not guaranteed to work for everyone. A thorough consultation with a specialist can help determine if this approach is suitable for your specific needs.

Alexander Golberg, MD, DO · Answer

Hello , thank you for your question.Yes, injections of autologous stem cell fraction from fat cells into the scalp or hairline can potentially help slow hair loss and may assist in regrowth for some people. This treatment is part of an emerging area of regenerative medicine, aiming to stimulate the hair follicles to grow. However, its effectiveness can vary widely among individuals, and it's still considered somewhat experimental.

John Diep, MD · Answer

As of right now, there are some studies out there with inconclusive data to support fat cells extraction of growth factors to promote hair growth. In other words, it does not seem to work at this stage.

Arslan Musbeh, MD · Answer

Autologous stem cell injections derived from adipose (fat) tissue are a promising but still experimental approach for hair restoration. These treatments aim to use stromal vascular fraction (SVF) — a rich source of regenerative cells — to improve scalp health and stimulate dormant follicles.

While some small clinical studies have shown moderate improvement in hair density and thickness, the results are not consistent across all patients. Unlike PRP, which has more established clinical evidence, fat-derived stem cell therapy lacks long-term data and standardization in preparation and dosage.

In short, it’s not a waste of time, but it’s also not yet a proven or predictable treatment. It can be beneficial when combined with PRP or medical therapy, but it should not replace evidence-based treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, or hair transplantation in advanced cases.

Dr. Arslan Musbeh
Hair Transplant Surgeon – Founder of Hairmedico
17+ years of experience in FUE, Sapphire FUE, and DHI

This answer has been approved by Dr. Arslan Musbeh. It is not a medical advice.

Michael J. Nusbaum, MD, FACS · Answer

Currently, there are no peer reviewed studies to support the use of autologous fat cell derived stem cells for hair growth. In theory, however, it should work.

Sibel Ulusan, MD · Answer

It is very important to know the kit and whether the clinic is actually performing the stem cell therapy the proper way. We do use fatcells or real hair grafts. We have seen great results especially with hair root stem cells that helped regrown thinning hair. However, your case needs to be closely examined before anyone can promise you the result.

Anna Avaliani, MD · Answer

You asked an amazing question but it is difficult to answer. There is no data out there to give you 100% confirmation . Hair loss or thinning has many causes and stem cells alone may not be sufficient but they definitely will not cause harm. It's worth a try if you are suffering. There is no guarantee that everything will work for everyone. Combination treatments work the best. We utilize stem cells from blood as from fat is a little too invasive for our patients and we also work with exosomes and have achieved very high patient satisfaction. The only accurate way to tell is to do an in person consultation and review blood work.
Good luck in your journey
Best, Dr.Anna Avaliani, NYC

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your very good question. There seems to be growing interest in this field, however, there isn't adequate research to support any findings. Sadly, this method doesn't seem to work, maybe in the future.

Dr. T

Dr. T

Audrey G. Bauer, MD · Answer

Although there is no clear cut data, there are over 4700 NIH-sponsored clinical trials underway to understand all the pathways and possible application of stem cell therapy.  It's obviously the new frontier of hair restoration.  Unfortunately, those studies are hard to evaluate and compare because they are not standardized.  However, the overall results seem to show potential.  For now it is still experimental with no clear cut guidelines regarding technique.

There is minimal research on autologous fat cell derived stem cells. Does this work or not? (Photo)

Answers (13)

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