What is PRP Platelet Rich Plasma and How is it Used to Treat Hair Loss?

What is PRP – Platelet Rich Plasma?
PRP Platelet Rich Plasma is a treatment derived from a person’s own blood platelets to enhance hair growth or to improve the recovery and results of hair transplant surgery. In the field of cell therapy and tissue regeneration, research is continuing regarding the use of PRP. This includes PRP’s ability to stimulate stem cell activity to improve wound healing and naturally rejuvenate skin and hair follicles. PRP, which also contains a number of stem cells itself, has been successfully used throughout a large variety of medical specialties (Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Dental & Facial Reconstruction, Neurosurgery, Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, etc.) for tissue regeneration and repair and to help patients avoid surgery or other risky interventions.

How is PRP performed as a stand-alone treatment for hair growth?
A small sample of blood is obtained. This sample is processed in a PRP tube containing an anti-coagulant to separate the platelets and plasma from other components like red blood cells. Platelets may then be ‘activated,’ releasing powerful molecules which have profound biologic effects on hair follicles and skin. This powerful cocktail of growth factors, cytokines and other proteins is injected into the area of scalp where weak hair follicles exist. This outpatient procedure takes less than one hour to perform and patients may resume all activities, including shampooing, etc. immediately afterwards as there is no recovery period. Mild soreness and redness of the scalp, if any, resolves in less than a day and improved hair growth can be measured in a matter of months.

Does PRP need to be repeated?
Unfortunately, the hair follicle-stimulating results of PRP treatment for hair regrowth is NOT permanent, and most patients require a repeat treatment in 12 to 24 months after the initial 3 to 6 sessions booked monthly. Treatment repetition is affected by the patient’s response to therapy, hair loss condition, adjunctive treatments and goals. Because hair typically grows at a rate of 1/4″ or 1cm per month it typically takes three to six months to measure improvement, and from six to twelve months to “see” results in the mirror or in photos.

Is PRP Platelet Rich Plasma safe?
Yes. PRP is immunologically neutral and poses no danger of allergic, hypersensitivity or foreign-body reactions. A closed, sterile technique is used in every stage to prevent infection. A brief period of inflammation/redness at the site of application is normal and expected, indicating the action of the PRP. Visible swelling in the forehead is expected in less than 10% of patients and may last for a day or two.

Disclaimer:
We are all unique. This means that treatment plans, the results, down time and recovery following treatment will vary from patient to patient. PRP results are not guaranteed. The information presented on this website should be used as a guide only and we cannot diagnose medical conditions. We do recommend that you see your Doctor or health care professional before any treatments.