Since 1998 · Zagreb & Daruvar
Laser Hair Growth Treatment in Croatia
A trichoscopic scalp analysis shows whether laser therapy matches the type and stage of your hair loss, and how to adjust the protocol.
Some patients arrive having already tried a laser cap, a comb, serums, or supplements — often without standardized tracking of the changes. In that case it is not always possible to establish whether the lack of effect is linked to the device, the protocol, the indication, or the individual response. An examination and scalp analysis are the basis for choosing a therapy and adjusting the parameters.
Is this for me?
How laser therapy acts on the scalp
Laser scalp therapy is a medical procedure in which we use the controlled action of laser energy to try to stimulate processes linked to follicle function and the hair growth cycle.
Possible effects of the laser: with the right indication, the therapy can reduce increased shedding, contribute to greater thickness of the existing hairs, and encourage some follicles to shift from the resting phase into the growth phase. In the earlier phases, the goal is to preserve the existing hair and slow further thinning.
What the laser cannot do: it does not create new follicles. In areas with no active follicles, laser therapy cannot restore hair growth, which is why it is not a therapy for areas of complete hair loss — for those, in suitable candidates, a transplant of follicles from the donor area can be considered. Nor does the laser remove the cause of hair loss. If the hair loss is linked to a hormonal disorder, a thyroid problem, or iron deficiency, laser therapy cannot replace the diagnostics and treatment of the underlying medical condition.
The goal of the therapy is to support the function of weakened but still active follicles.
How it works
How a medical laser acts on the scalp
We use a non-ablative Er:YAG laser, a medical device that delivers energy into the surface layers of the skin according to the set parameters, while the heat is gradually and in a controlled way transferred into the deeper structures of the scalp.
That action can influence local microcirculation and processes in the scalp tissue, including the area of the dermal papilla, a structure involved in regulating hair growth. It is assumed that changes in microcirculation and cellular activity can support the processes linked to the follicle’s shift from the telogen to the anagen phase — that is, from resting into growth.
Why this is not the same as a home device
The term “hair laser” covers very different devices in the public mind — from medical lasers to home caps, combs, and LED devices. They differ in energy level, method of use, and in the possibility of individually adjusted parameters and professional follow-up.
We work with a medical laser, in a medical setting, with parameters we set according to your findings and with measurements before and after the therapy. Home devices are usually used on one’s own and without individually adjusted parameters, and the result is often tracked without standardized measurements.
“Devices used to stimulate hair growth differ in the type of energy, the parameters, and the method of use. We work with a medical Er:YAG laser, with individually set parameters and medical follow-up. The choice of therapy depends on the diagnosis and the scalp findings, which show whether there are preserved follicles in which a response can be expected.” — Ana Maletić, MD, PhD
The right indication
When laser therapy can be considered
Laser therapy can be considered when the goal is to reduce shedding and improve the quality of the existing hair without surgery. The indications we most often see — always depending on the findings:
- androgenetic alopecia, the male and female pattern of thinning, while the follicles are still active
- diffuse thinning, when preserved follicles exist alongside reduced hair thickness and density
- increased shedding after stress or hormonal changes, once other possible causes have been assessed
- supportive therapy alongside a PRP scalp treatment or as part of a plan with a hair transplant, when there is an indication for it
There are also situations in which laser therapy is not indicated. In areas with no active follicles it cannot restore hair, and in suitable candidates a transplant can be considered. If the hair loss is linked to another medical condition, appropriate diagnostics and treatment come first. When the findings do not point to an expected benefit from the laser, we consider other options for treatment or follow-up.
The first step
Examination and scalp analysis before therapy
The examination is needed to establish the indication and set the therapy parameters correctly.
Before we set the parameters, we assess the density, hair shaft thickness, the pattern of loss, and the state of the preserved follicles. That is why we examine the scalp with a high-magnification trichoscopic camera, and when needed we supplement the findings with a digital analysis using the TrichoLAB system, which quantifies the number of hairs, thickness, density per square centimeter, and the number of hairs per follicular unit, by region of the scalp.
Based on the measurements and the clinical examination, we assess what form of hair loss is involved, how far it has advanced, and whether there are preserved, active follicles in which a response to the therapy can be expected. The same measurements also serve for follow-up, so the result is later compared with the initial findings.
How it is performed
What the treatment looks like
The treatment is non-invasive, requires no special recovery period, and takes about twenty minutes.
- Duration
- about 20 minutes
- Anesthesia
- not needed
- Protocol
- six treatments, two weeks apart
- Performed by
- Ana Maletić, MD, PhD
1 · Examination and preparation. We examine the scalp; special preparation is usually not needed.
2 · Setting the parameters. We adjust the laser parameters to your scalp findings and the therapy plan.
3 · Treatment. We pass over the scalp with a special comb-shaped laser handpiece, for about twenty minutes.
4 · Completion. After the treatment, special measures are usually not needed, and any instructions are given according to the state of your scalp.
5 · Back to your routine. Most patients can return to their usual routine the same day.
During the treatment you feel warmth and an occasional light tingling. The intensity of the warmth and tingling differs between patients and is adjusted during the treatment. Anesthesia is not needed.
See the full price listWhy us
Why choose us for a laser hair growth treatment
A world education center for laser procedures since 2008
physicians from different countries take part in training on performing laser treatments
A medical Er:YAG laser
a non-ablative medical Er:YAG laser with parameters adjusted to your scalp findings
A trichoscopic examination before therapy
the indication and parameters are determined by the scalp findings
TrichoLab scalp analysis
the number, thickness, and density of hairs measured by region before and during therapy
A defined therapy protocol
six treatments two weeks apart, with parameters adjusted to your findings
Monitoring the response to therapy
we follow the response with measurements and adjust the continuation of therapy to the findings
ABHRS Diplomate and ISHRS
Dr. Ana Maletić is the only physician in Croatia with this title
A center for the diagnostics and treatment of hair loss
we provide scalp diagnostics and therapy for patients from Croatia and abroad
Open about the protocol
The protocol, and what if it does not work
The recommended protocol is six treatments two weeks apart. Regular attendance matters, because the therapy runs through a predefined cycle, and it acts on the hair growth cycle — which is slow.
For patients who have already tried laser therapy without effect, we consider several possible reasons, including the indication, the type of device, the parameters, the duration of the protocol, the regularity of use, and the individual response. With an examination and a look at the previous protocol, we assess whether there is an indication for repeating or adjusting the therapy.
For the same reason we photograph and measure the results trichoscopically, always in the same way. Standardized photographs and trichoscopic measurements allow a more objective assessment of the effect and the decision on continuing the therapy.
The protocol of six treatments two weeks apart has also been examined in the professional literature, where some studies recorded an improvement in the appearance of the hair on comparative photographs after the completed cycle. With a suitable response, less shedding and better coverage of thinned areas can be noticed, while the hereditary tendency to thinning stays the same — which is why, after the cycle ends, further follow-up and an assessment of the need for maintenance are required.
Which one when
Laser, PRP, or a hair transplant
The laser, PRP, and a hair transplant have different goals, and the suitability of each method depends on the diagnosis, the scalp findings, and the goal of treatment.
- Laser therapy can act on preserved follicles, reduce shedding, and contribute to improving the quality of the existing hair. It involves no needles and usually requires no special recovery period.
- A PRP treatment is also aimed at weakened but preserved follicles, but through plasma from your own blood and its growth factors.
- A hair transplant replaces hair in areas where there are no active follicles left, by moving follicles from the donor area.
They can be combined when the same scalp holds both weakened follicles and areas of complete hair loss, and when there is an indication for each method — something that can appear in more advanced patterns of hair loss. The goal of the non-surgical therapies is then to support the existing hair, while the transplant moves follicles into the areas without hair. Alongside them we also use scalp mesotherapy and polynucleotides.
Real results
Before and after a laser hair growth treatment
We show results only with documented patient consent.
Who we are
Who will be taking care of you
The therapy is led by Ana Maletić, MD, PhD, a specialist in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. She holds the FISHRS and ABHRS Diplomate titles, is the only physician in Croatia with the ABHRS Diplomate title, and is the only physician from Croatia in regular membership of the ISHRS.
In addition, Polyclinic Maletić has been a world education center for laser procedures since 2008. The Polyclinic hosts training sessions at which physicians from different countries follow the performance of individual laser procedures. The status of an education center is one of the facts you can take into account when choosing a facility.
The Polyclinic has been operating since 1998; it was founded by her parents, and today two generations of the family work here. The treatment is performed in Zagreb and in Daruvar, with the same equipment and by the same protocol.
Meet the whole team
Watch
See what it looks like
Laser hair growth treatment at Polyclinic Maletić
Price
Price and the first step
One laser hair growth treatment costs €200.00, and a package of six treatments €1,000.00. The trichoscopic scalp analysis costs €135.00, and its findings are an important part of assessing the indication and drawing up the protocol. When additional diagnostics are needed, the Trichotest costs €335.00, and a scalp biopsy with histopathological analysis €200.00.
The consultation is free of charge. Based on the examination and scalp analysis, you receive an individual assessment of the possibilities and limits of laser therapy and, when it is indicated, a proposed protocol. You can see the prices of all treatments in the price list.
If you have already used a home device or another treatment without a clear result, an examination can help assess the protocol so far, the current state of your scalp, and the options for further treatment.
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Laser hair growth treatment – 1 treatment
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Laser hair growth treatment – package of 6 treatments
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Trichoscopic scalp analysis (TrichoLAB FotoFinder)
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Trichotest
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Scalp biopsy with histopathology
Which method for whom
Patients most often ask us which hair therapy is the best — and the answer is that a universally best therapy does not exist. Each person’s hair loss has its own cause, phase, scalp condition, and degree of follicle preservation. That is why the same method gives a good result in one person and does not match the findings in another.
So we build the treatment plan around what is actually measured on your scalp. After the trichoscopic analysis we know what kind of hair loss is involved, how far the process has advanced, and whether there are still follicles with regenerative potential. From those findings comes one therapy, or a combination of methods that complement each other. Sometimes what comes out is that a treatment makes no sense in your case — and then we talk about a transplant or about monitoring, depending on the findings. You will hear that at the first examination, not after several paid treatments.
Below is an overview of the methods we perform, how they differ, and when each one comes into consideration.
| Method | How it works | When it comes into consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Scalp mesotherapy | Delivers a preparation of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, composed according to your findings, into the scalp skin to improve the conditions in which the follicle works. | For weakened, thinning hair, early-stage thinning, and increased shedding after childbirth, illness, or a longer period of stress. |
| PRP treatment | Uses plasma from your own blood and the growth factors it contains, so the treatment involves drawing your blood and preparing it. | For increased shedding and thinning, when the follicles still exist but produce a thinner, weaker hair. |
| Polynucleotides | Purified DNA fragments that reduce inflammation in the scalp and stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, improving the scalp’s blood supply. | For diffuse thinning and a sensitive scalp, and when you prefer a solution that does not involve drawing blood. |
| Scalp filler | Delivers a complex of peptides and hyaluronic acid into the scalp skin that acts on the follicle itself. Unlike facial fillers, the goal is not added volume but strengthening the existing hair. | For weakened, thin hair and in the earlier phase of thinning, while the follicles are still active. |
| Laser hair growth treatment | Uses a medical Er:YAG laser to improve the scalp’s blood supply and encourage follicles to shift from resting into the growth phase, with no needles and no downtime. | For increased shedding and for strengthening existing hair, on its own or alongside other therapies. |
| Hair transplant | Your own follicles from the donor area are moved to the areas where hair no longer grows. | When certain regions no longer have active follicles, because no treatment can bring back hair that is gone there. |
How it works
Delivers a preparation of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, composed according to your findings, into the scalp skin to improve the conditions in which the follicle works.
When it comes into consideration
For weakened, thinning hair, early-stage thinning, and increased shedding after childbirth, illness, or a longer period of stress.
How it works
Uses plasma from your own blood and the growth factors it contains, so the treatment involves drawing your blood and preparing it.
When it comes into consideration
For increased shedding and thinning, when the follicles still exist but produce a thinner, weaker hair.
How it works
Purified DNA fragments that reduce inflammation in the scalp and stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, improving the scalp’s blood supply.
When it comes into consideration
For diffuse thinning and a sensitive scalp, and when you prefer a solution that does not involve drawing blood.
How it works
Delivers a complex of peptides and hyaluronic acid into the scalp skin that acts on the follicle itself. Unlike facial fillers, the goal is not added volume but strengthening the existing hair.
When it comes into consideration
For weakened, thin hair and in the earlier phase of thinning, while the follicles are still active.
Laser hair growth treatment
How it works
Uses a medical Er:YAG laser to improve the scalp’s blood supply and encourage follicles to shift from resting into the growth phase, with no needles and no downtime.
When it comes into consideration
For increased shedding and for strengthening existing hair, on its own or alongside other therapies.
How it works
Your own follicles from the donor area are moved to the areas where hair no longer grows.
When it comes into consideration
When certain regions no longer have active follicles, because no treatment can bring back hair that is gone there.
The methods are often combined, because the same scalp can simultaneously hold weakened follicles and areas where hair no longer grows. Then one method preserves and strengthens what is left, while the other replaces what has been permanently lost.
It is just as important to know what these methods cannot do. No therapy creates new follicles, so where a follicle is permanently lost, no number of treatments can change that. Nor does any of them remove the cause of hair loss. If a thyroid condition, a nutrient deficiency, or a hormonal change is behind the shedding, that finding is treated separately, and scalp therapy goes alongside it — not instead of it.
The right method for you is the one that matches the state of your scalp, regardless of how popular it currently is. That is why every plan starts with an analysis and a conversation — and only then comes the choice of treatment.
Patient reviews
What our patients say
Reviews taken from our Google Business profiles, Zagreb and Daruvar, translated from Croatian.
★★★★★
“A month ago I had an FUE hair transplant with Dr. Ana Maletić. From the professional side, my hair was done perfectly. I was lucky that my hair did not shed and started growing right away. Dr. Maletić’s expertise is obvious and makes her, without question, the leader in this field in Croatia. But my real satisfaction and gratitude lie in how the Polyclinic treats its patients. They are highly professional, yet approachable and compassionate at the same time. Nurses Matea M. and Valerija left a positive mark on my whole experience and made it more pleasant and calming. To anyone in Croatia looking for a hair transplant, I warmly recommend this Polyclinic. You will get top results and excellent care!”
★★★★★
“I had a hair transplant and I am more than satisfied with this extraordinary, exceptionally professional, life-changing procedure! A big thank you to Dr. Ana, Danijela, Romana, and everyone else who took part in this wonderful experience. My sincerest thanks! Marko S.”
★★★★★
“All praise to the entire staff of the polyclinic. I have already had my second PRP scalp treatment and I can only commend the whole team. I would especially like to praise the doctor for her exceptional expertise, patience, and warm approach. From the first examination to the procedure itself I felt safe and informed. The whole course of treatment was professional and well organized — I received clear and detailed instructions before, during, and after the procedure, which gave me extra confidence. The procedure itself was stress-free, with every step explained along the way, which meant a lot to me. The atmosphere is pleasant and relaxing, and the staff exceptionally kind and helpful. I am very satisfied with the results so far and look forward to further progress. I definitely recommend it to anyone considering a PRP scalp treatment — you are in safe and expert hands!”
★★★★★
“A few years ago I saw Dr. Ana Maletić for a facial hair correction using the FUE method, which made my beard somewhat denser. The results are fantastic — the work was done with such dedication and care. From the first meeting at the polyclinic she radiated confidence and knowledge of her work, along with a readiness and kindness to answer every question I had. All recommendations for Dr. Ana and her entire professional and friendly team.”
★★★★★
“I have been their patient and admirer for years. They have always known how to make my mom and me feel comfortable and welcome. My mom had a neck lift six years ago, and today I came in for PRP for hair growth. I cannot recommend them enough. Thank you, Ana!”
★★★★★
“I am very satisfied with Dr. Maletić’s results, from the beginning to the end of the hair transplant process. Five months after the procedure my hair looks phenomenal. The results I got, considering the number of grafts transplanted, pleasantly surprised me when compared with other clinics outside Croatia. As for the price, there is no big difference compared to clinics abroad, while the quality and expertise are on the level of top clinics. A big plus is that I did not have to travel outside the country, which made the whole process far less stressful for me.”
★★★★★
“I have rarely experienced such a professional, coordinated, and harmonious team. The atmosphere during the hair transplant was so pleasant that they even treated me to the occasional musical number. That relaxed atmosphere made the boredom of the procedure easier to bear. Although I do wonder whether some of you might be better off on a stage than in an operating room. Once again, a big thank you — I am already looking forward to the results in a few months!”
★★★★★
“A great experience, team, and final result. In short, I had an eyebrow transplant. Everything went exactly as Dr. Ana Maletić explained. The whole team was very kind and professional from start to finish, and I am now at peace because I finally have eyebrows. They look very natural, and the density is just as it should be. All recommendations!”
★★★★★
“A more than positive experience at Polyclinic Maletić, both in Zagreb and in Daruvar. I had a hair transplant and I am very satisfied with the approach and the procedure. I recommend it to everyone, especially to women who, like me, lost their hair after an illness. Once again, thank you to the kind team, and especially to Dr. Ana Maletić.”
★★★★★
“I just had a hair transplant. I am satisfied. Well done to Dr. Duško Maletić and the team in Daruvar. They are kind, professional, and do quality work. I recommend them.”
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions
Does a laser hair growth treatment hurt?
The treatment is usually well tolerated. During the procedure you may feel warmth and an occasional light tingling, and the intensity of the sensation is adjusted during the treatment. Anesthesia is not needed, and after the treatment most patients can return to their usual routine.
How long does a treatment take, and how many are needed?
One treatment takes about twenty minutes. The recommended protocol covers six treatments two weeks apart, so the cycle lasts roughly ten weeks. We adjust the parameters to the scalp findings, so the number of treatments can differ between patients.
When can I expect the first results?
In some patients, a reduction in increased shedding can be noticed during the therapy cycle, while a change in hair quality and thickness comes more slowly. We assess the effect of the therapy after the completed cycle, by comparing trichoscopic findings and photographs with the initial condition.
Is this the same as a laser cap or comb bought for home use?
It is not. Home devices usually work with lower energy levels and are intended for use on your own, often without individually adjusted parameters. At the Polyclinic we use a medical non-ablative Er:YAG laser, with parameters set according to your findings and with the results measured. If you already use a home device, tell us — that is information we can use.
I have already tried laser therapy without results. Is it worth trying again?
Whether repeating the therapy makes sense is assessed after an examination and a look at the previous protocol. A lack of effect can be influenced by an unsuitable indication, the type of device, the parameters, the duration of the protocol, the regularity of the therapy, and the individual response. After the examination we assess the possible reasons for the lack of effect and whether there is an indication for a different protocol. If the findings do not point to an expected benefit, we consider other treatment options.
Does the laser help if I have already completely lost the hair in some regions?
No. The laser can act on weakened but still active follicles — it does not create new ones. In areas with no active follicles, laser therapy cannot restore hair, and in suitable candidates a transplant can be considered. That is why the assessment of the indication comes before the therapy protocol is drawn up.
Can I combine the laser and PRP?
The laser and PRP can be combined when there is an indication for both procedures. Both therapies target preserved follicles, but they differ in how they are applied and how they act, so in some patients they complement each other. We assess the suitability of the combination based on the diagnosis, the scalp findings, and the goal of treatment.