What Is PRP For Hair Loss?
PRP therapy was developed due to new medical research and the advancement of technology within the medical community. Scientific studies have recently been published discussing the PRP hair restoration technique as an all-natural and non-invasive procedure that has been found to stimulate the growth of hair and to reduce the effects of thinning. One particular study published in Dermatologic Surgery, Italian physicians successfully used PRP in a clinical trial.
PRP Therapy works on the basis of utilizing growth factors within the platelets. Seven growth factors exist in normal platelets. The growth factors enter the hair bulb circulation and stimulate the stem cells. This leads to changes in the follicle.
One should note that although the process itself, including the device for separating plasma, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Injecting into the scalp to treat hair loss has not yet been reviewed. However, PRP has already been used effectively and safely in many other medical fields. These fields include, but are not limited to, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Cosmetic Surgery, Oral Surgery, and Neurosurgery.
PRP does not work for all types of hair loss. It is important that patients are correctly evaluated by a dermatologist or hair expert prior to commencing therapy to determine if they are candidates.
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What Causes Hair Loss?
Male pattern hair loss is treated with Rogaine® and/or Propecia®. Female hair loss can be associated with a hormonal imbalance and may be correctable with hormonal agents. Both physical and mental stress can contribute to a temporary hair loss condition called telogen effluvium. Alopecia areata is a condition whereby there is abrupt patchy hair loss on various areas of the scalp. Sometimes, alopecia areata can occur on other body surface areas such as the eyebrows, eyelashes, beard area, and rarely the whole body. Alopecia areata is most instances is mild and is a common skin disorder which is typically treated with cortisone injections at the site of the hair loss and with topical agents. For more aggressive forms of alopecia areata, systemic agents and topical chemical formulations may need to be used.
Not all hair loss is the result of genetics. Certain health conditions can contribute to temporary or permanent hair loss, so it is important to be evaluated by an experienced dermatologist in order to determine the cause. With accurate diagnosis, it is more likely that you will be able to achieve positive results. Common causes of significant hair loss include:
- Illness or Health Condition – Stress, diabetes, low thyroid activity, nutritional deficiency, cancer, or even the flu can cause temporary hair loss. In many cases, if the health condition is addressed or managed, the hair will regrow.
- Trauma – Scar tissue caused by physical injury, burns, or cosmetic surgery can interfere with hair growth, damaging the hair follicles and potentially causing permanent hair loss.
- Alopecia Areata – An autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own hair follicles, resulting in sudden hair loss on the scalp, face, and body. It can be triggered by genetics, stress, or other immune system deficiencies.
- Pattern Baldness – Also known as androgenic alopecia, pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss that affects both men and women, although men are predominantly affected by the condition. It is mainly caused by hereditary factors and may be gradual and permanent, beginning with a receding hairline or a thinning crown.
- Traction Alopecia – Trauma to the hair follicles by wearing tight hairstyles, such as ponytails, braids, or extensions can cause the hair to stop growing.
Is PRP Hair Restoration For Me?
PRP hair restoration is a great option for many men and women that are looking to restore their confidence and to regain a lush head of hair. Before getting PRP Therapy done, it is important to conduct careful research and to also consult with an experienced physician regarding your choice. Overall, this procedure is a safe and natural option for many individuals.
In addition, you also want to keep in mind that PRP for hair loss is still being analyzed as a means to restore hair growth and to reverse thinning in men and women. Therefore, there can be no claim that PRP hair restoration 100% promotes hair growth. In addition, the FDA has not approved the treatment.
Treatment Options for Hair Loss
Light Therapy
Red light wavelengths have been found to reduce inflammation in the skin and increase blood circulation around hair follicles on the scalp, reducing and preventing hair loss.
Minoxidil
Also known as Rogaine, the first FDA approved treatment for hair loss can be applied directly to the scalp or balding area to prevent further hair loss and stimulate regrowth.
Finasteride
Also known as Propecia, is the only other FDA-approved medicine used to treat hair loss by blocking a hormone in the scalp that causes male pattern baldness.
Microneedling with PRP
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) stimulates blood supply and provides proper nutrients to hair follicles, which can restore the hair growth process to those experiencing hair loss.
How effective is PRP for Hair Loss?
Out of all of the products that you can find on the market today regarding hair growth, PRP for hair loss is probably the most effective. Of course, it is also important to understand that results are going to vary and there is never any guarantee of success.
Overall though, PRP is an effective non-surgical procedure that works well to stimulate the follicle in order to induce hair growth. It reverses hair thinning and it causes the growth of new hair.
