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Platelet-Rich Plasma for Hair Loss
by Jane Meggitt
Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP, has been used for years to treat soft tissue injuries, and has helped revive the careers of many well-known athletes sidelined by tendon and other issues. Now, it appears protein-loaded PRP also works for hair restoration.
How It Works
PRP treatment involves taking a patient’s blood sample and processing it in a centrifuge so only the PRP remains. The PRP is then injected into the person’s scalp. It contains growth factors which encourage hair replenishment. For best results, the treatment should be given at three to four month periods to maximize hair regrowth.PRP doesn’t restore hair on its own. Instead, its rich nutrients enhance tissue recovery and help repair damaged areas, including hair follicles.
Advantages
There’s no surgery involved with PRP treatment. For the patient, it’s simply a needle removing a 10 milliliter blood sample, and a later injection into the head. Patients first receive local anesthesia in the area of injection, so the procedure is painless. It’s a natural process, using an individual’s own blood, so adverse reactions are extremely rare. Blood infections don’t occur, since you are receiving your own blood. No sedation is necessary – patients don’t need someone else to take them home after the procedure.
Disadvantages
PRP treatment doesn’t work for everyone, and it’s not cheap. Patients with certain health issues should not undergo PRP therapy. These include:
- Alcoholics
- Cancer
- Chronic Infections
- Chronic Skin Diseases
- Heavy Smokers
- Illegal Drug Users
- Liver Disease
- Metabolic Issues
- Thrombocytopenia – Platelet Disorders
Because it is considered cosmetic therapy, PRP treatments are seldom covered by insurance.
Complementary Therapy
PRP is not usually used on its own, but in conjunction with complementary hair loss therapies. If you are planning hair restoration therapy, PRP gives you another weapon in the hair restoration battle. Many doctors recommend using PRP concurrently with Minoxidil and other hair restoratives. With PRP, patients should notice some hair regrowth within a few months of treatment.
No FDA Approval
As of 2016, the FDA has not approved the use of PRP for hair restoration. As a rule, PRP works better on thinning hair rather than clients who are already bald.
Ditch the Wigs
With guided PRP and complementary therapy, there’s a good chance clients can get rid of their wigs and toupees after several PRP sessions. It won’t work for anyone, but it does for a sizable percentage.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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