Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Hair Regrowth: Harnessing Your Body’s Power
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection is a natural hair loss treatment based on using patient’s blood. It involves platelets, a type of blood cell that helps with healing and tissue regrowth. PRP is gaining popularity in various medical fields, including dermatology. This is because of its natural healing properties and its ability to promote cell growth and tissue repair.
How Does PRP Work for Hair Loss?
PRP works for hair loss by utilizing the growth factors and proteins found in platelets to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. It is injected into the scalp and increases hair thickness and density. The treatment aims to rejuvenate inactive or weakened hair follicles, making them healthier and more capable of producing hair.
Which Types of Hair Loss is PRP Most Effective For?
PRP is particularly effective for common types of hair loss such as androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern alopecia or baldness. This condition causes a gradual thinning of hair on the scalp, usually in a predictable pattern.
PRP can help with temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium, which often happens after stress, infection, or trauma. In this case, a large number of hair follicles enter the telogen, or resting, phase simultaneously. This condition leads to noticeable hair shedding and thinning across the scalp. PRP treatment can help with hair thinning caused by hormonal changes or medical conditions.
How PRP Treatment is Performed?
PRP treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that involves several steps:
- Blood Draw: A small amount of the patient’s blood is drawn, similar to a routine blood test.
- Centrifugation: Blood is spun at high speed in a centrifuge to separate platelets from other blood parts.
- PRP Extraction: The concentrated platelets are extracted and prepared for injection.
- Scalp Injections: The PRP is injected into specific areas of the scalp where hair thinning or loss is present.
Injections are given with a small needle and spread evenly across the treatment area for consistent distribution.
Sometimes, PRP can be combined with microneedling to enhance hair regrowth. Microneedling involves using a device with fine needles to create tiny, controlled micro-injuries on the scalp. This process helps the scalp heal itself, making it easier for treatments to work.
What Technology Does Our Clinic Use for PRP Injections?
We utilize Emcyte centrifuge and kits, which have FDA approval for use. This new technology creates many platelets that give important growth factors to hair follicles. It produces more platelets than other devices.
How Effective is PRP for Pattern Hair Loss?
PRP has shown good results for hair loss, with many patients seeing better hair density, thickness, and overall health. Studies show that PRP can help slow down hair loss, promote new hair growth, and improve the quality of existing hair. The effectiveness of PRP can vary for each person, with some seeing better results than others.
We believe that a thorough evaluation should accompany the use of PRP treatment. For the best results, it should be used alongside medical treatments.
The rarity of serious side effects draws patients who desire to improve their hair density and thickness naturally. We highly recommend a hair loss consultation prior to committing to PRP sessions.
Are there any Contraindications to PRP?
PRP is generally considered safe for most individuals, but there are certain contraindications to be aware of. Some patients may not be good candidates for PRP treatment. Each case should be evaluated individually.
- Blood disorders or platelet dysfunction syndromes;
- Chronic liver disease;
- Active infections;
- Certain skin diseases;
- Severe metabolic or systemic disorders;
- Cancer;
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Do You Need to Prepare for a PRP Procedure?
Preparing for a PRP procedure is relatively straightforward. Here are some general guidelines to follow before the treatment:
- Don’t take blood-thinning drugs or supplements like aspirin or ibuprofen for a week before the procedure.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water the day before and the day of the treatment.
- Wash your hair thoroughly on the day of the procedure to ensure a clean scalp.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for a few days before the treatment, as these can affect the healing process.
What are the Possible Side Effects of PRP Injections?
PRP injections are generally well-tolerated, with minimal risk of serious side effects. However, some patients may experience mild and temporary side effects, including:
- Pain or discomfort at the injection site
- Redness or swelling of the scalp
- Mild bruising
- Itching or irritation
- Temporary hair shedding
These side effects typically resolve on their own within a few days to a week.
How Painful is the PRP Injection Procedure?
The PRP procedure is generally well-tolerated and involves minimal pain. Patients may experience a slight pinching or pressure sensation during the blood draw and injections. To reduce pain, the doctor may put numbing cream or local anesthesia on the scalp before giving shots. Most patients find the procedure to be manageable and can tolerate it without significant pain.
Is PRP Effective for Everyone?
PRP is effective and may stop active hair loss for many individuals. But not everyone will experience the same level of success. Many factors can impact the success of hair loss treatment. These factors include the extent and duration of hair loss, the cause of thinning hair, the patient’s age, and their response to treatment.
People with early hair loss or thinning who have realistic expectations are more likely to see good results.
How Many PRP Procedures Needed for Effective Treatment?
The number of PRP sessions needed for best results can differ based on the person’s condition and how they respond. It is recommended to start with a few treatments, typically three to six sessions.
Each session should be spaced about four to six weeks apart. You might need to perform upkeep procedures every couple of months to maintain the outcomes. We will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.
What Happens if You Stop Doing PRP?
If you stop undergoing PRP treatments, the benefits achieved may gradually diminish over time. Hair loss may resume its previous pattern, and the improvements in hair density and thickness may decrease. To maintain the results, it is essential to adhere to the recommended treatment plan and schedule regular maintenance sessions. It’s particularly significant for androgenic alopecia given its progression throughout one’s life.
Can You Combine PRP with Other Treatments?
You can effectively combine PRP with other hair loss treatments to enhance results. Common combinations include topical treatments, oral medications, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and other regenerative methods (microneedling, lasers, exosomes, etc). Patients who have already had or are planning to undergo a hair transplant may also use it.
What is the Price of PRP Injections and is it Covered by Insurance?
The cost changes depending on the provider’s experience, PRP preparation technology, and service location. You may see our clinic pricing on our webpage. Insurance does not cover PRP injections because traditional medicine considers them optional.
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