Stem cells derived from platelet rich plasma (PRP) have shown promise in hair restoration treatments due to their regenerative properties. These stem cells are obtained from a patient's own blood, which is then processed to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. The resulting solution, PRP, is injected into the patient's scalp, where it stimulates the stem cells in the hair follicles to regenerate and produce new hair growth. This treatment can be effective in treating conditions such as androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, as well as other forms of hair loss caused by injury, stress, or illness. In addition to promoting hair growth, PRP stem cells also have anti-inflammatory and healing properties, which can help to improve the overall health of the scalp and hair.
Hair Loss
Hair loss from the scalp can range from mild thinning of hair to total baldness. It results from hormonal changes, stress, certain hair treatments, an underlying health condition, certain medications or hereditary. Hair loss is more common in men, although anyone can experience it. Most often, people experience a gradual loss that begins from the forehead or patchy bald spots anywhere in the scalp.
PRP Therapy for Hair Loss
PRP is most often used to treat arthritis or to aid in healing after joint surgery, but recently, it is being used to treat hair loss. The growth factors in the PRP stimulate the hair follicles and help promote hair growth.
Indications for PRP Therapy
- Women experiencing hair thinning after menopause
- Balding men
- Men or women experiencing hair loss for the last 5 years
Procedure of PRP Treatment
PRP Preparation
The procedure involves drawing a specific amount of blood from the patient. A centrifuge is used to spin the blood to separate the platelets and plasma from the remaining blood cells and to increase the concentration of the platelets.
Injection
The procedure may be performed under local anesthesia of the scalp where hair loss has occurred. A small needle is used to inject the PRP preparation into the skin of the scalp near the hair roots. Treatment usually involves 3 injections spread over 3 months. You may need multiple shots spread over a few years depending on the amount of hair loss, age, genetics, etc.
Complications
Complications are rare but may include pain, redness, infection or bleeding at the injection site.
Advantages
The advantages of PRP therapy for hair loss include:
- Minimum complications
- Cost-effective
- No need for an incision as compared to hair transplantation
- Better results
Contraindications
PRP therapy may not be recommended if you take prescribed blood-thinning medications and have medical conditions such as thyroid disease, lupus, hepatitis and skin cancer.