Platelet-rich plasma therapy has quickly become one of the most sought-after treatments for a variety of medical, rehabilitative and cosmetic conditions. Medical professionals and celebrities alike have endorsed its efficacy as an innovative way for the body to heal by using its own natural components. PRP has become a popular choice in treatment for hair regrowth, strengthening of inactive hair follicles and scalp rejuvenation.
PRP is a three-step process: blood draw, blood processing and blood injection. PRP is derived from your own blood. After blood is drawn, it is spun in a centrifuge to isolate the PRP. The PRP is then delivered via injection to the scalp for hair growth. Platelet rich plasma initiates repair and attract stem cells to the injection site with the intent of growing new hair. Most patients require 3 treatments, with an average of about a dozen injections per treatment. A recent study shows that the average number of follicle units increased from 71 to 93 after 4 PRP treatments. For best results, consistency is key. The hair restoration process includes 3 PRP injections over 4 to size weeks with regular maintenance injections every 4-6 months.
In a 2017 study, patients affected by male-pattern baldness were given PRP injections on the right side of their head and saline injections on the left side. The results on the right side were concluded as “hair loss reduced with evidence of new hair growth. Digital image analysis showed an overall improvement in hair density and quality as hair became thicker, normal hair. An improvement in hair density, quality and thickness was noted. Our data suggests that PRP injections have a therapeutic effect on male pattern hair loss with no major side effects and high patient satisfaction overall.”
For PRP to be successful for new hair growth, several factors need to take place. The first, finding the root cause of hair loss. Did you know that both men and women are affected by hereditary hair loss? In fact, 35 million men and 21 million women experience some form of hair loss or noticeable thinning. Many have reported significant hair loss as a negative side effect from prescribed medications, ranging from thyroid medication to weight loss supplements to cancer treatments. Eliminating medications or supplements that may be causing hair loss is key. It is also recommended to stop using any blood-thinning over the counter medications or herbal supplements the week before your appointment. Starting treatment at the early signs of hair loss is important too. For those with inflammatory skin issues or conditions that have caused scarring on the scalp, PRP would not be recommended. Men and women afflicted by androgenic alopecia, more commonly know as male or female pattern baldness, and those with recent hair shedding or loss will benefit most from PRP treatment.
Although PRP treatments have been performed since the 1980s, there is still relatively limited clinical proof to its effectiveness because PRP specifically for hair growth is relatively new. The greatest factors for PRP success include providing treatment in conjunction with oral supplementation and topical treatments such as Rogaine, Propecia, and even LED light therapy. Combined, the success rate is about 70-90% among patients. Patients are likely to see results between 6-12 months, with some noticing improvement after just 3 months of treatment. PRP is a suitable option for most people as not everyone is a candidate for hair transplants. In general, scientific case studies have proven PRP to be effective for new hair growth and improved hair thickness.
To determine if PRP is the right hair treatment for you, please contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE to schedule an in-depth analysis and examination of your scalp. Our team can provide answers to your questions and help set realistic expectations accordingly to achieve the best results.