What is PRP for Hair?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) hair treatment is a non-invasive hair loss and hair restoration therapy. It involves the extraction of cells rich in proteins from the patient’s blood. The PRP hair treatment begins by drawing a standard amount of blood from the patient. The extracted blood is placed in a centrifuge and spun for a specific period to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the red blood cell and other blood components. The platelet-rich plasma is then isolated and injected into the areas of the scalp affected by hair loss or thinning. It’s a great option for treating androgenetic alopecia (baldness).
Is It For You?
- Suitable candidates for PRP treatment include individuals facing hair thinning or hair loss.
- PRP treatment is effective for both male and female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).
- It is a preferred option for those seeking non-surgical methods for hair restoration.
- Candidates should have adequate hair follicles and density for PRP injection to be effective.
- Realistic expectations about the potential results of PRP treatment are crucial.
- Consultation with a dermatologist or hair specialist is essential to determine the suitability of PRP treatment based on individual conditions and medical history.
Steps
Consultation and Evaluation: Meet with a dermatologist or hair specialist to discuss hair loss concerns and assess suitability for PRP treatment.
Blood Draw and Centrifugation: A small blood sample is taken and spun in a centrifuge to separate platelet-rich plasma from other components.
Preparation of PRP: The platelet-rich plasma, containing growth factors, is extracted and prepared for injection.
Scalp Preparation: Thoroughly cleanse the scalp to remove any debris or oils that could interfere with PRP absorption.
PRP Injection: Using fine needles or a microneedling device, inject the PRP directly into the scalp where hair loss is evident, spacing injections evenly.
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up: Follow instructions to avoid washing hair for at least 24 hours, refrain from strenuous activity, and attend scheduled follow-up appointments for further treatment or monitoring.
Post Care
Avoid Washing Hair: Refrain from washing hair for 24 to 48 hours post-PRP treatment to allow full absorption of platelet-rich plasma by the scalp.
Gentle Hair Care: After the initial period, use mild, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to cleanse hair gently, avoiding harsh products that may irritate the scalp.
Avoid Heat Styling: Minimize use of heat styling tools to prevent damage to hair and scalp.
Sun Protection: Shield the scalp from direct sun exposure with a hat or sunscreen formulated for the scalp to prevent UV damage.
Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from strenuous activities to minimize sweating and scalp irritation.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support overall skin and hair health.
Follow Instructions: Adhere to any additional post-care instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as avoiding certain medications that may interfere with healing.
Popular Questions
PRP, or Platelet-Rich Plasma, treatment for hair loss involves injecting a concentration of the patient's own platelets into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Platelets contain growth factors that promote tissue repair and regeneration, potentially leading to thicker, healthier hair.
PRP treatment works by harnessing the regenerative properties of platelets to stimulate hair follicles' growth and repair. When injected into the scalp, the growth factors in PRP promote blood flow to the hair follicles, prolonging the hair growth phase and enhancing hair thickness and density.
Good candidates for PRP treatment for hair loss include individuals experiencing early stages of hair thinning or pattern baldness, as well as those seeking non-surgical hair restoration options. However, PRP may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or severe hair loss.
The number of PRP treatment sessions required varies depending on the patient's individual response to treatment, the severity of hair loss, and the desired outcome. Typically, a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart is recommended for optimal results.
Discomfort during PRP treatment for hair loss is usually minimal. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or a sensation of pressure at the injection site. Topical numbing cream or local anesthesia may be applied to the scalp before treatment to minimize any discomfort.
Results from PRP treatment for hair loss are not immediate and typically become noticeable within a few months. Patients may observe increased hair thickness, density, and overall improvement in hair quality over time with continued treatments and proper post-care
PRP treatment for hair loss is generally considered safe, as it utilizes the patient's own blood components. However, mild side effects such as temporary swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site may occur. Serious complications are rare but may include infection or injury to underlying structures.
Yes, PRP treatment can be combined with other hair loss treatments such as topical minoxidil or oral medications like finasteride for enhanced results. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate combination of treatments for individual needs.