Overview
What is GFC Hair Treatment and who is it for?
GFC stands for growth factor concentrate. Like PRP, it starts with a small sample of your own blood. The difference is in the processing. The blood is collected in special tubes that activate the platelets, which then release their growth factors into the plasma. After centrifuging, this growth factor-rich layer is separated and injected into the scalp. The process takes about an hour in total.
Because the growth factors are already released and most of the cells are removed, the injected solution is more purified. Some patients find it causes less soreness than PRP. Fewer cells in the solution may also mean less inflammation at injection sites. The aim is the same: to support follicles that are shrinking due to pattern hair loss or prolonged shedding, so they can produce thicker, healthier hair.
GFC works on follicles that are still alive. It cannot grow hair on scalp areas that are already completely bald. It is usually combined with medical treatment and correction of any deficiency. Research on GFC is still growing, and responses differ between people, so Dr. Shilpa will discuss honestly whether it suits you. Progress is tracked with scalp photos taken at each follow-up visit.
The procedure
What happens during the treatment?
- 1
Scalp assessment
Dr. Shilpa confirms the type and extent of your hair loss and checks your health history before recommending GFC.
- 2
Blood collection
A small amount of blood is drawn into special activator tubes, which trigger the platelets to release growth factors.
- 3
Processing
The tubes are centrifuged, and the clear growth factor concentrate is separated from the rest of the blood.
- 4
Scalp injections
After numbing, the concentrate is injected with a fine needle into the thinning areas of your scalp.
Benefits
What are the benefits?
- It uses your own blood, so the risk of allergy is very low.
- The injected solution is more purified than standard PRP.
- Some patients find it more comfortable than PRP during and after the session.
- It can help reduce hair fall and improve thickness in suitable cases.
- You can usually get back to normal work the same day.
Is it right for you?
GFC suits men and women with early to moderate pattern hair loss or diffuse thinning whose follicles are still active. It is not advised during pregnancy, with active scalp infection, blood clotting disorders, low platelets or while on blood thinners. Dr. Shilpa decides between GFC, PRP and other options after examining you in person.
Aftercare
How should you care for your skin afterwards?
- 01Avoid washing your hair for 6-8 hours after the session.
- 02Do not colour, straighten or chemically treat your hair for a few days.
- 03Avoid heavy workouts, swimming and steam for 24-48 hours.
- 04Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen for a few days unless prescribed.
- 05Continue the hair medicines and supplements in your plan.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Neither is right for everyone. GFC delivers a more purified growth factor solution and some patients find it more comfortable. PRP has been studied for longer. Both depend on your own blood and your follicles' response. Dr. Shilpa recommends one based on your scalp, your type of hair loss and your preferences.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary from person to person.
