Hair Wellness Treatments in South Africa

Once we’ve identified what’s causing your hair dysfunction, we can recommend the most effective treatment pathway. We offer two distinct approaches based on the stage and severity of your concerns:

Hair Wellness: 

Hair Wellness is preventative and focuses on maintaining healthy hair, improving vitality, and supporting the scalp during stress, hormonal changes, or environmental challenges. Our hair wellness treatments include GFIT (Growth Factor Induction Therapy) and scalp microneedling, which work to optimise scalp health and preserve existing hair before progressive thinning develops.

Hair Restoration: 

Hair Restoration is a regenerative, medically driven approach for patients experiencing visible thinning, pattern hair loss, or persistent shedding. This pathway uses advanced diagnostics (dermoscopy, blood tests, optional TrichoTest™ genetic testing) and combines pharmacological support with regenerative therapies like PRF and stem cell therapy to reactivate dormant follicles and improve hair density.

During your consultation, we’ll assess your concerns and recommend the most appropriate pathway for your needs.

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we combine advanced diagnostics with regenerative medicine to address the root causes of hair concerns.

Your journey begins with a hair wellness consultation where we evaluate scalp health, identify contributing factors, and create a bespoke treatment protocol using evidence-based techniques.

Our solutions, growth factor induction therapy and microneedling, work to support follicles, strengthen existing hair, and restore natural vitality.

Schedule your hair wellness consultation to take the first step to healthier hair.

Hair dysfunction is a multifactorial process influenced by internal and external stressors. It occurs when the hair growth cycle is disrupted or when the scalp environment becomes unfavourable for healthy follicular activity.

Common contributing factors include:

• Genetics (androgenetic alopecia)
• Stress and cortisol dysregulation
• Hormonal fluctuations such as pregnancy, menopause or thyroid dysfunction
• Iron and vitamin D deficiencies
• Poor circulation or chronic scalp inflammation
• Aggressive hair treatments, certain hairstyles or scalp trauma

If left unaddressed, hair follicles may miniaturise, resulting in thinner, weaker strands and eventually permanent hair loss. Early intervention is crucial, as hair loss and scalp wellness respond best to preventative, regenerative care that restores function before irreversible damage occurs.

Book a consultation to identify the root causes of your hair concerns and begin a tailored treatment protocol.

GFIT (Growth Factor Induction Therapy) is an advanced treatment that uses biotechnologically derived growth factors to stimulate and rejuvenate hair follicles at the scalp level.

The treatment involves applying AQ Skin Solutions’ Advanced Hair Complex directly to the scalp, which is then stamped into the skin using a specialised dermastamp device. This process creates controlled micro-channels that allow the concentrated growth factors to penetrate deeply, creating an optimal environment for follicular regeneration.

GFIT activates dormant hair follicles, improves overall scalp health, restores healthy growth cycles and enhances the thickness and strength of regrowing hair. The protocol typically consists of two courses of five weekly sessions each, with a five-week break in between.

Book a consultation to discover how GFIT can support your hair restoration journey.

Scalp microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries across the scalp surface, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and follicular activity.

This process creates microscopic channels that enhance the absorption of potent bioactive ingredients, including specially formulated growth factors and peptides designed for scalp and hair wellness. The microneedling action also increases microcirculation, improving blood flow and the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles.

Scalp microneedling works excellently as a standalone treatment for maintaining hair wellness or as an effective maintenance therapy. Treatment sessions are quick, with minimal downtime and only temporary scalp sensitivity.

Schedule a consultation to explore how scalp microneedling can enhance your hair wellness protocol.

Hair wellness treatments are best for individuals experiencing:

• Early-stage thinning or diffuse hair loss
• Reduced scalp vitality, chronic inflammation, or poor hair quality
• Hair shedding due to stress, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies
• A desire to preserve and protect existing hair through natural, non-surgical rejuvenation
• Reduced hair vitality
• Increased shedding during stressful periods
• Dull, dry or weakened hair

Ideal candidates should be in good health with realistic expectations about outcomes.

These treatments are not suitable for medical conditions such as scarring alopecia or alopecia areata, where appropriate referrals will be made.

For patients experiencing progressive thinning, pattern hair loss, or persistent hair shedding, our Hair Restoration protocols may be more suitable.

Book a consultation to determine if hair wellness treatments are right for you.

Hair wellness treatments begin with a comprehensive Hair Wellness Consultation where we assess your scalp health, hair concerns and underlying contributing factors. It’s essential to discuss your medical history, current medications, lifestyle factors and expectations during this consultation.

To develop the most effective approach, we utilise dermoscopy to evaluate hair density and follicle activity. Where indicated, we may recommend further tests to identify underlying conditions such as anaemia or thyroid dysfunction.

Once your bespoke protocol is established, the recommended procedure takes place in our clinic.

After treatment, we provide aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up sessions according to your protocol. Book a consultation to begin your personalised hair wellness journey.

Hair wellness treatments offer comprehensive scalp and follicle support through natural, non-surgical methods. Key benefits include:

• Supports healthy hair follicles and natural growth cycles
• Improves scalp health, circulation and follicular environment
• Strengthens existing hair and enhances thickness and vitality
• Addresses underlying causes of concerns, including inflammation and poor vitality
• Provides sustained results through gradual improvement 
• Minimally invasive with little to no downtime
• Utilises your body’s own healing mechanisms for safe, natural rejuvenation
• Can be combined with complementary treatments and home care for enhanced outcomes

 These treatments are ideal for maintaining healthy, vital hair for the long term.

Schedule a consultation to discover how hair and scalp treatments can benefit your hair wellness goals.

Treatment duration varies depending on the specific protocol selected.

GFIT and scalp microneedling sessions generally take around 30 minutes each.

Most hair wellness treatments involve minimal preparation and no significant downtime, allowing you to return to normal activities shortly after your session.

The exact duration will be discussed during your consultation based on your personalised treatment plan.

Book your consultation to explore treatment protocols and find a schedule that works for you.

Hair and scalp wellness treatments involve minimal to no downtime, allowing most patients to resume normal activities immediately following their session.

You may experience mild scalp sensitivity, slight redness or tenderness in the treated areas for a short period, typically resolving within 24 to 48 hours. GFIT or microneedling, may cause temporary discomfort during and shortly after the procedure due to the stamping or needling.

We provide detailed aftercare instructions to optimise healing and results. It’s generally recommended to avoid vigorous exercise, excessive sweating and harsh hair treatments for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment to allow the scalp to settle.

Schedule a consultation to discuss specific recovery expectations for your chosen treatment protocol.

Results from hair wellness treatments develop gradually, with visible improvements typically becoming noticeable from 3 to 6 months following the initial treatment cycle as the hair growth cycle responds to follicular stimulation.

The longevity of results varies based on individual factors such as the underlying cause of hair concerns, overall health, lifestyle and adherence to recommended protocols. To sustain and optimise outcomes, maintenance treatments are generally recommended every 6 to 12 months.

Combining in-clinic treatments with tailored home care, proper nutrition and stress management can help prolong results and support continued scalp and hair vitality over time.

Book a consultation to discuss expected timelines and maintenance strategies for lasting hair wellness.

The cost of hair and scalp wellness treatments varies depending on the specific protocol and number of sessions required for your individual needs.

• GFIT sessions range from R2,750 to R3,550 per treatment.
• Scalp microneedling costs in the range of R1,750 per session.
• Home-care protocols will be quoted on after your initial consultation.

Treatment plans are customised based on your hair loss pattern, scalp condition and wellness goals, ensuring you receive the most effective protocol for optimal results.

Schedule a consultation to receive a detailed treatment plan and personalised pricing for your hair wellness journey.

Hair wellness treatments are generally safe when performed by qualified skincare specialists with expertise in aesthetic and regenerative medicine.

These procedures utilise bioactive growth factors and natural healing mechanisms that have been used for many years in aesthetic applications. Treatments like GFIT and scalp microneedling are minimally invasive and carry minimal risk when proper protocols are followed.

The treatments harness your body’s natural healing mechanisms rather than introducing foreign substances, and offer a low risk of adverse reactions. Side effects are typically mild and temporary, including slight redness, tenderness or scalp sensitivity that resolves quickly.

When performed by experienced practitioners in a clinical setting, hair wellness treatments provide safe, effective results with minimal complications.

Contact us to discuss safety and suitability during your consultation.

When performed by experienced skincare specialists, hair and scalp wellness treatments typically result in minimal side effects and are well-tolerated by most patients.

However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and considerations to discuss during your consultation.

Hair wellness treatment: Side Effects, Risks & Complications

• Scalp tenderness and discomfort: Mild pain or sensitivity in treated areas during and after the procedure, typically resolving within 24 to 48 hours.
• Redness and swelling: Commonly observed at treatment sites, usually temporary and subsiding within a few days.
• Temporary itching or irritation: Can occur as the scalp heals and generally resolves quickly without intervention.
• Infection: While rare when proper sterile techniques are followed, infections can occur and are treatable with appropriate medication.
• Scalp inflammation: Temporary inflammatory response as part of the healing process, typically mild and self-limiting.

Contra-indications for hair and scalp wellness treatment

• Active scalp infections: Presence of bacterial, viral or fungal infections in the treatment area.
• Skin conditions: Active psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis affecting the scalp.
• Autoimmune conditions: Certain autoimmune diseases may affect healing and treatment response.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Due to unknown effects on foetal and infant health.
• Anticoagulant therapy: Increases risk of bleeding and bruising during treatment.
• Medical forms of hair loss: Conditions such as scarring alopecia or alopecia areata require alternative medical management and appropriate referrals.

For patients experiencing progressive thinning, pattern hair loss, or persistent shedding, our Hair Restoration protocols may be more appropriate.

Understanding what to expect before, during and after your hair treatment helps ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery. Below, we outline our recommended guidelines for your hair wellness journey.

What to do before hair wellness treatment

• Avoid alcohol, fish oil supplements, aspirin or any other anti-inflammatory drugs for 2 weeks before treatment to reduce bruising risk.
• Avoid dental appointments, vaccinations or other medical interventions for 2 weeks before your appointment to minimise infection risk.
• Schedule your treatment at least 48 hours before any major events, as mild scalp sensitivity and redness may occur.
• Inform us if you have recently visited the dentist or are planning to go within 2 weeks of treatment.
• First-time patients must provide a complete medical history, current medications and any scalp conditions during consultation.
• Arrive with clean hair and scalp (avoid styling products, oils or heavy conditioners on the day).
• Stay well-hydrated in the days leading up to your treatment.

Day of hair wellness treatment

• Arrive with freshly washed hair and a clean scalp to prevent bacterial contamination during treatment.
• Plan to arrive 30 minutes early if a topical anaesthetic application is needed for enhanced comfort.
• Your practitioner will confirm your treatment plan through a detailed consultation before proceeding.
• GFIT and scalp microneedling sessions take around 30 minutes each.
• The scalp will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before treatment commences.

What to do after a hair wellness treatment

• Immediately after treatment, you may experience mild scalp tenderness, redness, or sensitivity in the treated areas.
• Initial effects typically subside within 24 to 48 hours, with the scalp settling completely within a few days.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy sweating or activities that increase blood flow to the scalp for 24 to 48 hours.
• Avoid washing your hair for 12 to 24 hours post-treatment to allow the scalp to settle.
• Do not apply harsh hair products, chemical treatments or heat styling for 48 hours.
• Avoid direct sun exposure, saunas, steam rooms and excessive heat for 48 hours.
• Avoid alcohol consumption for 48 hours to support healing and reduce inflammation.
• Sleep with your head elevated on the first night to minimise any swelling.
• Use gentle, sulphate-free hair care products and avoid scratching or touching the treated areas.
• Follow any prescribed home care protocols, including topical treatments or supplements recommended by your practitioner.

Contact your specialist if you experience unusual symptoms, prolonged discomfort or have concerns during recovery.

At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we provide hair wellness treatments at our specialist clinic located in the prestigious V&A Waterfront. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a discreet, comfortable environment where advanced hair wellness protocols meet expert medical care.

Every session is tailored to your unique needs, combining evidence-based techniques with compassionate support to help you achieve optimal scalp health and sustainable results.

Book your consultation today and discover how our experienced team can help you maintain healthy, vital hair.