PRP or platelet-rich plasma therapy uses the best-rich plasma of the blood and targets various skin conditions, making you feel more youthful, younger, and confident. This treatment has received immense popularity globally due to its effectiveness in treating skin issues. In addition, PRP therapy is used to treat hair loss. The growth factors in the plasma contribute to hair growth to a major extent.

How PRP Can Treat Hair Loss?

The exact mechanism of PRP therapy for hair loss treatment remains unknown. However, research states that this treatment works for hair loss in the following ways.

  • Platelet-rich plasma contains six different growth factors, and the individual and synergistic effects of the protein may have positive effects on hair growth.
  • This plasma comprises at least 30 other substances, such as immune mediators, chemokines, clotting factors, and more, which promote hair growth in one way or another.
  • Growth factors such as fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factors, and epidermal growth factors are mostly involved with multiplying hair growth during this treatment.
  • These growth factors increase the duration of anagen or the growth phase of the hair, along with increasing the thickness of the hair shaft.

Who Can Benefit from PRP Injections?

PRP injections may benefit a wider range of people, including the following.

  • PRP therapy is effective for men who are balding or have bald spots. It is also effective for women who have been experiencing hair thinning.
  • PRP has positive effects on individuals suffering from androgenic alopecia or other forms of alopecia.
  • All hereditary hair loss conditions are addressed and treated by PRP. Depending on your condition, you may need several sittings to witness positive results.
  • PRP therapy works for a sizable age range of people. Anyone between 8 and 72 years can opt for this treatment.
  • PRP therapy is effective in treating hair loss caused as a result of high stress levels.
  • This treatment is effective in individuals who have started experiencing hair loss recently.
  • PRP therapy is an effective treatment for individuals who have bald spots but are not completely bald. In this situation, these injections are meant to strengthen, thicken, and grow hair from follicles that are still functioning.

How is PRP Therapy Performed?

Here are the steps involved in the procedure.

  • During your first consultation, the doctor explains the steps involved in the procedure, and a consent form is signed, signifying that you understand the risks, benefits, limitations, and alternatives to this procedure.
  • The doctor draws some quantity of blood from your body. The exact amount depends on your hair fall condition and the system used by the office.
  • You may be administered local anesthesia to ward off any discomfort.
  • After drawing blood, the doctor processes the blood sample as per the protocol specific to the system. The blood is transferred to separate containers. There will be three products after centrifugation—packed red blood cells, platelet-poor plasma, and platelet-rich plasma.
  • A small sample is tested to determine the exact concentration of the platelets.
  • The doctor then injects the blood into your scalp. At least 6 ml of PRP is available to inject.

In some clinics, the professionals combine this treatment with microneedling to double the results. It also increases the success rate of the procedure.

Do’s and Don’ts of PRP Therapy

  • You can resume your normal activities as and when suggested by the doctor. If you experience drowsiness because of anesthesia, do not go back to the home immediately.
  • Wash your hair on a regular routine unless the site of the injection feels painful or irritated.
  • The doctor will strictly advise you against coloring your hair or using any chemical treatment for at least 72 hours after the injections.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions while taking care of the scalp.

What is the Recovery Period after PRP Injections?

The recovery period of the injection depends on how well you can respond to the treatment. Some individuals experience side effects like pain, bruising, irritation, and more on their scalp. These side effects abate within 3-4 weeks. You will be completely recovered from the procedure after 3-6 months.

How Effective is the PRP Procedure for Hair Loss Treatment?

The success results of PRP therapy for hair loss treatment are high, with many patients experiencing advanced hair growth. The success rate is also characterized by certain individual factors. For instance, people with chronic diseases and thyroid imbalances may not witness the result of this procedure over time, as cosmetic surgery doesn’t fix underlying issues.

Takeaway

PRP for hair loss treatment has benefits for a majority of people. If you have been experiencing excessive hair loss with no results using other methods, you can opt for this procedure. In the best practice, you must discuss the pros and cons of the procedure with the doctor and prepare yourself accordingly. Follow the aftercare properly for quick recovery.