Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) is a proactive, non-surgical therapeutic option for male and female patients experiencing hair loss and who require stimulation for improved hair growth. This procedure takes advantage of recent scientific research on wound and tissue healing.
How does platelet rich plasma therapy work?
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy is an injection treatment that uses the components of a person’s own blood to stimulate hair growth. Platelets are very small cells in your blood that are involved in the clotting process. When PRP is injected into the damaged area it causes a mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. As the platelets organize in the tissue they release a number of enzymes to promote healing and restoration of tissue. PRP works by stimulating inactive hair follicles into an active growth phase. They have also been shown anecdotally to promote hair growth.
How is the platelet rich plasma therapy performed?
A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient (similar to what is required for a basic lab test). The blood is spun in a centrifuge, which has the effect of separating the platelet rich plasma from the rest of the blood. The platelet-rich plasma is activated to release at least eight essential growth factors and signaling proteins. Platelet-rich plasma is a technology that deploys aspects of blood-based biochemistry. Because all constitutes retrieved in PRP are exclusively from the patient, there is virtually no risk of intolerance. Following the administration of topical anesthesia (lidocaine), PRP is then injected directly into thinning areas of the scalp.
Average patient needs at least 4 treatments which are scheduled 4 weeks apart and then a maintenance program of 1 treatment every 6 months. Hair loss can be a continuous throughout life for some people. Additional PRP injections may be needed.
What results can I expect from platelet rich plasma therapy?
Results vary with every patient, NOT ALL PATIENTS GET IMPROVEMENT. Extensive clinical studies are pending, but the current medical literature contains numerous optimistic results. PRP should not be considered a “cure” for hair loss and no guarantee can be made about its individual effectiveness. PRP is not FDA-approved at this point in time. The main goal is no more hair loss within a year.
