Does PRP really work for hair loss?
Hair loss and hair thinning is an issue that can affect both men and women. Multiple factors can contribute to the thinning and loss of hair. Age, genetics, certain medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal fluctuations are just some of the causes of hair thinning and hair loss. Although hair transplant surgery is a popular solution to hair loss, not everyone is a candidate or may not desire a surgical procedure. A less invasive but effective solution to consider is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for hair restoration.
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is derived from the patient’s own blood. Blood is drawn from the patient and then spun in a centrifuge which makes the heavy red blood cells separate from the lighter plasma. The platelets in the plasma are rich in growth factors and cytokines which stimulate stem cells in the area they are injected into.
Who is PRP therapy for?
PRP therapy is popular among both men and women who are experiencing increased hair thinning. The best results will be seen in those who have thinning hair that is still experiencing some hair growth and not completely bald areas. Often times underlying causes must be investigated to ensure maximum results and benefits from the treatment. If the hair loss is due to an underlying medical condition that will need to be treated first.
Risks and Side Effects
The risks involved in PRP treatments are generally low since we are using the patient’s own blood to extract the plasma.
Minimal side effects include:
Mild scalp tenderness, mild swelling, headache, mild discomfort at injection sites
The Procedure
PRP injections into the scalp to facilitate hair growth can be done right here in the office. The procedure takes around 30-45 minutes and there is no downtime.
The patient’s blood is drawn into tubes and then centrifuged to separate the plasma from the red blood cells.
While the blood is being centrifuged, the doctor will numb the areas that will be treated.
The areas of the scalp to be treated are then microneedled to trigger the body’s natural healing process.
The plasma that is now separated is drawn into a syringe and injected into the areas where more hair growth wants to be seen.
How does it work?
The growth factors and cytokines signal the tissue they come in contact with to regenerate cells. Stem cells are stimulated by the platelets in the plasma and can help reverse hair loss by activating dormant hair follicles.
The first three sessions are completed 4-6 weeks apart, but most patients need to return for maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.
RESULTS
Patients typically report decreased hair shedding, increase in hair volume, healthier more vibrant hair, and in most cases new hair growth.
Below are numerous studies regarding the benefits of PRP Hair treatments!
Platelet-Rich Plasma in Androgenic Alopecia: Myth or an Effective Tool (nih.gov)
Efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in androgenetic alopecia patients – PubMed (nih.gov)
Platelet-Rich Plasma as a Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia – PubMed (nih.gov)
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Pervaiz to discuss your Hair loss and thinning treatment options.