PRP, also referred to as platelet-rich plasma, is a blood plasma type that has long been used to treat musculoskeletal disorders and, more recently, skin conditions. PRP can help improve skin texture and look when injected into the skin or when used as a follow-up to microneedling, a technique that uses tiny needles to create minute skin incisions. PRP has attracted attention in more recent years as a potential treatment for hair loss, one of dermatology’s most challenging issues.
What is PRP?
Understanding platelet function in healing is necessary to comprehend how PRP functions.
Blood contains platelets in addition to red and white blood cells. When a person sustains a cut or a wound, platelets are among the body’s “first responders.” They show up to stop the bleeding and promote healing.
Researchers made the accurate prediction that removing concentrated platelets and putting them into damaged body areas would hasten the healing process.
To generate PRP, a medical expert will spin a sample of blood in a centrifuge. The components of the blood are separated by the machine’s rapid rotation. The medical professional next extracts the platelets and plasma and gets them ready for injection.
PRP for hair restoration
The most typical type of hair loss that can be addressed with PRP therapy is androgenic alopecia, sometimes referred to as male-pattern and female-pattern baldness. It is more likely to be successful to begin treatment when hair loss is still in its early stages. Additionally, it might benefit patients who have alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes bald spots to appear in a circle.
PRP therapy is less likely to be successful if the condition that is causing your hair loss, lupus, results in scarring on the scalp. Scarring typically prevents hair follicles from becoming active again.
PRP is an excellent solution for those who are experiencing hair loss. Most people with thinning hair get noticeable results from the therapy. It encourages hair regrowth in addition to slowing hair loss.
How many appointments are required?
A complete course of PRP therapy for hair loss consists of three sessions spaced up to eight weeks apart. Individuals should see new hair growth four to six weeks after therapy. They might need maintenance treatments every six to twelve months to keep seeing results.
Potential dangers and side effects
PRP uses the body’s own plasma and growth factors, making treatment generally safe and well-tolerated. Although infection is conceivable, a specialised doctor will take measures to prevent it, such as cleaning the scalp with alcohol. Possible but uncommon side effects include calcification at the injection site, damage to blood vessels or nerves, and the development of scar tissue.
The Takeaway
As we’ve already covered, PRP therapy is a non-invasive medical technique that involves injecting concentrated plasma—rich in nutrients and growth factors—extracted from the patient’s own blood into specific areas of the scalp where hair development is required. It is reasonable to claim that it is a superb and efficient approach for reversing hair loss and encouraging hair regrowth.
