Since 1998 · Zagreb & Daruvar
Polynucleotides for the Scalp in Croatia
Before any therapy, we examine the scalp and assess whether polynucleotides are suitable for the type and stage of your hair loss.
Some patients have already tried shampoos, ampoules, or supplements before their examination, and want to know whether those approaches suited their form of hair loss. An examination and a scalp analysis are the basis for choosing the right therapy.
Is this for me?
What polynucleotides are and how they act on the scalp
Polynucleotides are DNA fragments used in regenerative medicine for their potential effect on tissue repair processes, and in recent years they have also been used on the scalp. Small quantities are injected with a fine needle into a specific skin layer to improve the conditions in which follicles produce hair.
This is a minimally invasive medical procedure. That is why a professional assessment of the indication and a correct application technique are important parts of the process.
What exactly they act on
According to research to date, polynucleotides may influence inflammatory processes, the formation of new blood vessels, and cell repair processes. Those effects could also be relevant in certain forms of hair loss, because in some patients thinning can be linked to mild inflammatory changes of the scalp, while local conditions in the tissue can affect the function of preserved follicles.
The right indication
When polynucleotides can be considered
The therapy can be considered when the hair has thinned and active follicles still exist in the treated area. When the part line is widening, the overall volume of hair is decreasing, or the crown is becoming more visible, there may be preserved follicles that therapy can act on — which is why it is then reasonable to assess the options for scalp therapy. With advanced thinning, the possible reach of the therapy is limited by the state of the preserved follicles.
Situations in which we most often suggest them
- Certain forms of diffuse thinning in women, when the part line is widening and density is dropping evenly across the whole scalp.
- Hair loss after childbirth, illness, or a longer period of stress, when the underlying condition has stabilized but hair density has not fully recovered.
- Early thinning of the crown and temples in men, where the relationship to other therapeutic options is assessed individually.
- A sensitive scalp that tolerates certain topical preparations poorly, after assessing the cause of the sensitivity and the suitability of injection therapy.
- As a complement to other scalp therapies, such as laser hair growth stimulation.
- When there is an indication for injection therapy and the patient prefers a preparation that does not require drawing blood.
How to choose between polynucleotides, PRP, and laser
Patients often ask how these three therapies differ from one another, because all three are used with the goal of preserving or improving the existing hair. The difference is in how they get there. A PRP treatment uses your own plasma, so it involves drawing blood and preparing it, while polynucleotides are a ready-made, purified preparation without that phase. The laser hair growth treatment involves no needles and is done in a series.
The choice of therapy depends on the diagnosis, scalp findings, health status and treatment goal. Therapies can also be combined.
“Polynucleotides can support the conditions in the tissue around an active follicle, but they do not create new follicles. They can be considered when preserved follicles exist in the treated area, while in areas without active follicles they cannot restore hair — which is why the state of the follicles is assessed before the therapy protocol is drawn up.” — Ana Maletić, MD, PhD
How it is performed
What a polynucleotide treatment with us looks like
The whole procedure takes about half an hour and is a minimally invasive medical procedure.
- Duration
- about 30 minutes
- Anesthesia
- usually unnecessary; vibration in the treatment area is sufficient; anesthetic cream or a local nerve block can be used if needed
- Protocol
- most often a series of four treatments; the schedule is set by your findings
- Performed by
- Ana Maletić, MD, PhD
1 · Examination and scalp analysis. The scalp is examined trichoscopically and, when needed, the findings are supplemented with a digital analysis using the TrichoLAB system, which measures hair count, thickness, and density by region. Based on the measurements and the clinical examination, we assess what form of hair loss is involved and whether there are preserved follicles that can be expected to respond to the therapy.
2 · Preparation. We disinfect the scalp according to medical protocol. If needed, anesthetic cream is applied beforehand or a local nerve block is used. Vibration during application can ease discomfort. The scalp is photographed.
3 · Application. The preparation is applied with a fine needle to the areas defined by your findings, at a depth and in a pattern adapted to the treatment area and the protocol.
4 · After the treatment. Most patients can return to their usual obligations after the treatment, following the written scalp care instructions.
Therapy usually consists of four treatments; the schedule and any repeat sessions are determined according to the findings. We monitor changes with standardised photographs.
See the full price listA realistic outcome
Possible results of the therapy
With a good response to the therapy, you may notice less hair falling out when washing or combing. Visible changes develop gradually and are usually moderate: hair shaft thickness may increase and the impression of hair density may improve, while in some patients the part line may look less pronounced.
The significance of such changes varies between patients and depends on their initial condition and treatment goals. The scope of therapy depends on the number and condition of preserved follicles, and the effect is monitored by comparing standardised photographs.
Honest about the limits
Limitations, and situations in which the therapy is not recommended
It is important to understand the limitations of therapy before deciding to proceed.
They do not create new follicles. In areas where no active follicles remain, polynucleotides cannot restore hair growth, which is why they are not a therapy for areas of complete hair loss. In that situation, for suitable candidates, a hair transplant can be considered.
They do not remove the cause of hair loss. If the shedding is linked to a thyroid disorder, iron deficiency, or another hormonal disorder, the underlying condition needs to be diagnosed and treated first. Scalp therapy cannot replace proper medical diagnostics and treatment.
There are also health conditions in which the treatment needs to be postponed or is not recommended, and possible contraindications are assessed during the examination and history-taking. If the findings do not point to an expected benefit from polynucleotides, we consider other options for treatment or follow-up.
Why us
Why choose us for a polynucleotide treatment
ABHRS Diplomate
Dr. Ana Maletić is the only physician in Croatia with this title, one of 260 physicians worldwide
The only ISHRS Fellow from Croatia
the most distinguished membership level in the international hair transplantation society
One of 6 clinics worldwide
with this level of international certification for hair treatments
The only clinic in Croatia performing all four transplant methods
FUE, DHI, Sapphire, and STRIP; the method is chosen based on your scalp findings and the state of the donor area
Since 1996
the start of training in hair transplantation, two years before the Polyclinic opened in 1998
A trichoscopic examination before therapy
the therapy is planned according to the type of hair loss and the scalp findings
The indication is assessed before therapy
trichoscopic findings show whether preserved follicles may respond to therapy
Who we are
Who will be taking care of you
The Hair Center is led by Ana Maletić, MD, PhD, a specialist in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. She holds the titles FISHRS and ABHRS Diplomate, is the only physician in Croatia with the ABHRS Diplomate title and one of 260 worldwide, and is the only ISHRS Fellow from Croatia. In March 2026, she defended her doctorate on the relationship between hair transplantation and biopsychosocial factors of health.
Her experience in diagnosing and treating hair loss is also important when planning this therapy. The polyclinic has operated since 1998; it was founded by Dr. Ana’s parents, and two generations of the family work here today. Treatment is available in Zagreb and Daruvar, with the same equipment and protocol.
Meet the whole team
Watch
See what a scalp analysis looks like
TrichoLab Studio: precise scalp diagnostics
Price
Price and the first step
Prices for one polynucleotide treatment for hair loss and a package of four treatments are listed in the table below. The price of the trichoscopic scalp analysis is listed in the table below.
Based on the examination and scalp analysis, you receive an individual assessment of what the therapy can and cannot do and, when it is indicated, a proposed protocol. You can see the prices of all treatments in the price list, and arrange an appointment via contact for Zagreb or Daruvar. You will find the other scalp therapies at the Hair Center.
If you are noticing a widening part line or decreasing hair density, an examination can show whether there are preserved follicles the therapy can act on.
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Hair loss treatment with polynucleotides
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Hair loss treatment with polynucleotides — package of 4 treatments
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Trichoscopic scalp analysis (TrichoLAB FotoFinder)
Which method for whom
Patients most often ask us which hair therapy is best. There is no universally best therapy: each person’s hair loss has its own cause, stage, scalp condition and degree of follicle preservation. The same method may therefore work well for one person but not another.
We therefore build the treatment plan around a detailed scalp examination and, when needed, a health assessment. After trichoscopic analysis, we know the type and stage of hair loss and whether follicles with regenerative potential remain. The findings lead to one therapy or a combination of complementary methods. Sometimes they show that treatment makes no sense in your case; we then discuss transplantation or monitoring, depending on the findings. You will hear this 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 the findings, into the scalp skin. | 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 are moved from the donor region to areas where hair is absent or thinning. | 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 the findings, into the scalp skin.
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.
Polynucleotides
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.
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 are moved from the donor region to areas where hair is absent or thinning.
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 equally important to know what these methods cannot do. No therapy creates new follicles, so where a follicle has been permanently lost, no number of treatments can change the situation; transplantation is indicated. If hair loss is linked to thyroid disease, nutrient deficiency or a hormonal change, that condition is treated separately, with scalp therapy alongside it rather than instead of it.
The right method is the one that suits your scalp condition. Every plan therefore begins with analysis and discussion, followed by treatment selection.
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 polynucleotide scalp treatment hurt?
Brief discomfort may be felt during the application. The preparation is applied with a fine needle into a skin layer determined by the treatment area and the protocol, and vibration is used during the treatment to soften the sensation at the injection points. Anesthesia is usually not needed, but if required, a numbing cream can be applied to the area beforehand, or a local nerve block can be used.
How many polynucleotide treatments are needed, and when do the first results show?
Most often a series of four treatments, with the intervals and any repeat sessions set by your scalp findings. In studies to date, the first changes in hair quality and thickness were recorded roughly a month after the therapy began, but we assess the effect in an individual patient after several months, because that is how long the hair growth cycle lasts.
How do polynucleotides differ from a PRP treatment?
PRP uses your own plasma, so it involves taking and preparing a blood sample. Polynucleotides are supplied as a prepared, purified product, so that stage is not required. The suitability of each therapy is assessed according to the diagnosis, scalp findings and treatment goal.
Do polynucleotides help if I have already lost the hair on my crown?
No. Polynucleotides can act on weakened but still active follicles. In areas without active follicles, injection therapy cannot restore lost hair. In that case, we can assess whether there is an indication for a hair transplant.
Can polynucleotides be combined with other hair treatments?
They can be used on their own or combined with other scalp therapies, such as laser hair growth stimulation. Which combination is suitable is assessed after an examination and scalp analysis.