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If you’ve heard of vampire facials and PRP injections, you’re probably already familiar with the benefits of platelet-rich plasma. The popularity of platelet plasma growth factors is on the rise, especially since various studies have proven that injections of platelets can also contribute to hair regrowth for patients struggling with androgenetic alopecia.
Androgenic alopecia is a common condition that affects hair follicles and causes them to shrink. The condition is mainly seen in men and is often referred to as male pattern baldness. Up until recently, it was believed that patients with hair loss had to simply accept the condition, but PRP injections have managed to bring their hope back and allow them to fight against pattern hair loss.
What is platelet-rich plasma?
Before explaining how PRP injections can help with hair restoration, it is useful to understand how platelet-rich plasma works. Our blood contains red and white blood cells, as well as plasma and platelets. While plasma is the liquid substance of the blood, platelets are a type of blood cell. The role of platelets is to act fast when our body is bleeding and initiate the healing process.
Platelets are famously known for their clotting abilities, but their growth factors are also responsible for tissue regeneration and, more recently, skin rejuvenation and reduction in hair loss. When we are talking about platelet-rich plasma, we’re talking about blood that has a higher concentration of platelets than normal. Platelet-rich plasma cannot be extracted directly from our blood, but it can be prepared by a medical professional in a sterile environment.
What is platelet-rich plasma?
Before explaining how PRP injections can help with hair restoration, it is useful to understand how platelet-rich plasma works. Our blood contains red and white blood cells, as well as plasma and platelets. While plasma is the liquid substance of the blood, platelets are a type of blood cell. The role of platelets is to act fast when our body is bleeding and initiate the healing process.
Platelets are famously known for their clotting abilities, but their growth factors are also responsible for tissue regeneration and, more recently, skin rejuvenation and reduction in hair loss. When we are talking about platelet-rich plasma, we’re talking about blood that has a higher concentration of platelets than normal. Platelet-rich plasma cannot be extracted directly from our blood, but it can be prepared by a medical professional in a sterile environment.
What are the benefits of PRP injections?
The application of platelet-rich plasma in medicine and plastic surgery is no longer a secret. Medical professionals have used PRP injections to treat different musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, such as tendon injuries, as well as osteoarthritis pain and stiffness.
PRP injections have also been proven to do wonders for facial skin and are often used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, rejuvenate the skin, and deliver a more youthful appearance. They can be an effective treatment against acne scars and can reduce hyperpigmentation.
Due to its extensive benefits, plastic surgeons have seen an opportunity to use platelet-rich plasma as a treatment for hair loss. Since the procedure behind this treatment for hair loss involves the use of one’s own blood and plasma, PRP injections can be used to promote hair growth and even prevent hair loss. They are also believed to be an effective adjuvant in the stimulation of hair growth after hair transplantation.
How do PRP injections work for hair loss?
The specialist performing the procedure will first draw a blood sample from the patient. The blood will then be placed into a centrifuge that will rapidly spin the sample and separate the blood from the platelets. During the process, the platelet count will be boosted to deliver the healing platelet-rich plasma.
The extracted platelet concentration will then be injected into the patient’s scalp. The growth factors from the platelets will trigger natural hair growth, as well as improvement in hair volume. It is believed that platelets increase the blood supply delivered to the hair follicles, restore the normal hair cycle, and increase hair counts. Furthermore, PRP injections can contribute to increased hair thickness and overall hair volume.
The entire procedure lasts about 1 hour, but the treatment plan may include more than just one session. The PRP injections are particularly effective for types of hair loss caused by damage to hair follicles and can ensure an increase in hair density and become the engine behind active hair growth.
Following the procedure, the patient may return to their daily activities without downtime. Since PRP injections for pattern hair loss are not a cure for the condition, maintenance injections every 3 to 6 months are often necessary for hair loss treatments.
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FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
PRP is thought to work for hair loss by stimulating hair growth through the release of growth factors and proteins from the platelets. These factors are believed to promote cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration, which can potentially lead to improved hair growth.
Several studies have shown promising results for PRP therapy in treating hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern hair loss). However, the results can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same level of improvement.
If you’re considering PRP therapy for hair loss, during your consultation we’ll discuss your options and determine if PRP might be suitable for you.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has shown promise in promoting hair regrowth for some individuals. While there have been several studies and anecdotal evidence suggesting that PRP therapy can lead to hair regrowth, results can vary. Some individuals may experience noticeable improvements in hair density and growth, while others may not see much change.
The success of PRP therapy for hair regrowth may depend on factors such as the underlying cause of hair loss, the severity of the condition, and the individual’s overall health.
PRP for hair loss can be worth it as it has demonstrated success in regrowing hair. However, success varies and depends on a number of conditions including your health, the severity of your hair loss, and its cause.
It’s important to remember that when treating hair loss there are a number of options such as topical minoxidil and finasteride. The best way to find out if the treatment is worth it for you is to schedule a consultation with our team. We’ll review your specific situation and recommend treatment options based on your goals and expectations.
Generally, the effects of PRP therapy are not permanent, and maintenance treatments may be required to sustain the improvements in hair growth and density.
After the initial PRP treatment, clients often undergo a series of sessions, typically spaced about one month apart. The exact number of sessions needed depends on the individual’s response to the treatment and the severity of the hair loss. After the initial treatment course, maintenance sessions might be necessary every 6 to 12 months to prolong the positive effects of PRP therapy.
It is essential to understand that PRP therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the treatment plan, frequency, and duration of the effects can vary significantly among individuals. Factors such as the cause of hair loss, the stage of hair loss, overall health, and adherence to the recommended treatment plan can all influence the duration of PRP therapy’s effects.
The time it takes for PRP to promote hair regrowth is different for everyone and depends on important factors like severity and the cause of hair loss.
After starting PRP therapy, clients may begin to notice improvements in hair growth and density within a few months. Most people start to see results after 3 to 6 months of treatment.
PRP therapy typically involves multiple sessions, often spaced about one month apart. Once the initial treatment course is completed, maintenance sessions might be necessary every 6 to 12 months to sustain the improvements in hair growth and density.
o optimize the outcome of PRP therapy and gain a better understanding of what to expect in your specific situation, schedule a consultation with our team.
Several clinical studies have demonstrated that PRP therapy can lead to improvements in hair density, thickness, and overall hair growth. The treatment involves injecting concentrated platelets from the patient’s blood into the scalp, which release growth factors and proteins thought to stimulate hair growth and promote healing.
The overall effectiveness of PRP therapy for hair restoration is still a subject of ongoing research. Some individuals may experience significant improvements, while others may see little to no change in their hair growth.
It’s best to schedule a consultation with one of our professionals so that we can assess your health and condition to determine the best path forward.
After a PRP hair treatment, it is essential to follow your medical professional’s advice to ensure optimal healing and results. Here are some general recommendations to consider:
- Avoid washing your hair for 24 hours after the treatment to allow the PRP to remain in the treated area for the maximum time possible.
- Avoid using harsh chemical hair products, including hair dyes, for at least 72 hours after the procedure.
- Avoid vigorous physical activities, heavy exercise, and sweating for at least 24-48 hours after the treatment, as this could increase blood flow to the scalp and interfere with the healing process.
- Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat exposure to the scalp for the first few days after treatment. Wear a hat if you need to be outdoors.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 72 hours after treatment, as these substances can hinder the wound-healing process and potentially reduce the effectiveness of PRP therapy.
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, for a few days after the procedure, as they may counteract the effects of the growth factors released by the platelets. Consult with your healthcare provider before stopping or altering any prescribed medications.
- Avoid massaging or rubbing the treated area for at least 24 hours to prevent irritation or inflammation.
We always provide specific post-treatment care instructions and guidelines, as individual recommendations may vary.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy for hair loss is generally considered to be a safe procedure with minimal side effects, especially since it utilizes the patient’s own blood. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of:
Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the injection sites. Proper sterilization techniques and aseptic procedures can help minimize this risk.
- Pain and discomfort: Some patients may experience mild pain, discomfort, or tenderness at the injection sites, which usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days.
- Swelling and inflammation: PRP injections may cause temporary swelling or inflammation in the treated area. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days.
- Bleeding and bruising: As with any injection, there is a risk of bleeding and bruising at the injection sites. These effects are generally mild and resolve on their own.
- Allergic reaction: Although rare, since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, there is still a small risk of an allergic reaction to the substances used during the procedure, such as local anesthetics or anticoagulants.
Prior to any procedure, you’ll have a consultation with our team to assess your health, condition, and goals. We’ll help you determine whether a treatment is both right and safe for you.
