Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), often referred to as male pattern baldness, is the leading cause of hair loss, impacting up to 80% of men and 40% of women of Caucasian descent. This condition can drastically change one’s appearance, leading to discomfort and sometimes triggering depression and anxiety. A cutting-edge solution, however, is gaining favor: PRP treatment for hair.

This innovative hair regrowth treatment may transform hair care — using plasma rich platelets that we generate naturally within our own bodies. It offers hope and new possibilities for those seeking to regain confidence and revitalize their locks and their looks.

Understanding PRP Treatment for Hair Loss

Plasma is the nutrient-rich liquid part of blood. Suspended within that fluid are the three main types of blood cells: red cells, which carry oxygen, white cells, which fight infections, and platelets. Platelets help to heal damaged blood vessels by binding together to form blood clots. They also secrete growth factors that are thought to assist in wound healing and tissue regrowth.

Plasma that is “platelet-rich” contains an abnormally high concentration  of platelets — about five times the normal amount.

Prior to its development for aesthetic applications, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments were used in a number of medical domains. For instance, PRP’s capacity to expedite healing led to its use in the treatment of tendon injuries, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, and other conditions. Over time, a growing number of cosmetic procedures began to include PRP because of its promising results in skin rejuvenation and hair restoration.

The science behind PRP treatment for hair loss

PRP contains growth factors that promote healthier hair by increasing cell proliferation and blood flow to the follicles. Although the exact processes are unknown, scientists believe these growth factors help prolong the hair development phase and boost follicle vitality. PRP treatment provides a natural solution to hair loss and promotes scalp health, making it a potential supplement to current treatment alternatives. Some research suggests that PRP may work best with other AGA treatments like Propecia (finasteride) or topical Rogaine (minoxidil).

Comparing PRP therapy to other hair restoration methods

Medicines that halt hair loss and promote new hair growth, like finasteride and minoxidil, are common components of hair restoration systems. A hair transplant involves the surgical relocation of hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another. Laser therapy uses light to stimulate hair follicles. When compared to these other treatment options, the PRP method stands out as a natural and potentially beneficial alternative.

Treatment Process and What to Expect

To fully grasp the possible advantages of PRP treatment for hair regeneration and to establish reasonable expectations, it’s helpful to understand how the procedure works. With this information at hand, you can better assess the treatment’s suitability for your hair care objectives and budget.

Initial consultation with a dermatologist or healthcare provider

Your dermatologist or other healthcare professional will assess the pattern of your hair loss, examine your medical history, and talk to you about why you are loosing hair and your treatment objectives at the first appointment. Part of deciding whether this treatment option can help requires a careful examination of your scalp.

The PRP procedure

If the initial exam indicates that you are a candidate for PRP treatments, your dermatologist will follow a simple procedure.

• Drawing blood. For PRP, a healthcare provider will draw blood, typically from your arm. The procedure is comparable to a routine blood test.
• Getting the PRP. Next, the blood is placed into a centrifuge. This machine spins the blood at high speeds to separate its components – the heavier elements on the bottom and the lighter ones on the top. A medical provider will use a syringe to collect the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood sample.
• Injecting the PRP. The doctor injects the PRP into regions of the scalp that have experienced hair loss or hair thinning.
• Personalizing your treatment plan. Personal variables, including hair loss severity and your reaction to the first treatments, determine the optimal number of PRP treatments. Individualized treatment plans may include periodic check-ins to discuss your progress and any necessary therapeutic modifications. This personalization helps to maximize PRP treatment effectiveness.

Effectiveness and Results

Potential benefits of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment include reduced hair loss and thicker, fuller hair. In addition to promoting a healthy scalp, many patients report an increase in the density and texture of their hair.

Different people may see different results. Some may witness substantial regrowth, while others may experience little to no difference. Consistent therapy can help to maintain any benefits, which may fade over time.

Number of PRP sessions needed

Before patients see noticeable hair regrowth, they usually have to go through repeated PRP procedures — typically about one month apart. Some patients report noticeable hair regrowth after only one or two treatments, while others report results of greater hair loss prevention and regrowth after three or six sessions.

One study found that PRP therapy for four months produced better outcomes in  androgenic alopecia than daily 5% topical minoxidil therapy. However, it concluded that the combination of the two may potentially offer far better outcomes.

Side effects and possible complications

Patients may have temporary side effects including redness, swelling, or mild soreness at the injection site after receiving PRP injections. And even though complications like infection or injury to blood vessels are uncommon, they are even less likely to occur when a skilled dermatologist performs the procedure.

Considering PRP Treatment for Hair Loss

Those dealing with androgenetic alopecia or other forms of hair loss and hair shedding often benefit from PRP treatment for hair restoration. People with moderate to mild hair loss and functioning hair follicles are the best prospects. It can work well for both sexes to increase the quantity and quality of hair.

Quality candidates also include those who prefer not to use artificial means and instead use their own blood for therapy. Some people may not see any improvement, particularly if their hair follicles are dormant or if their hair loss is severe.

The average cost of a PRP treatment for hair loss is $500 to $2,500 per session. Because PRP is considered to be a cosmetic treatment, it may not be covered by insurance. Most people need an average of 4 sessions one month apart followed by one or two sessions per year as maintenance in the case of androgenetic alopecia.

Finding the Right Specialist for PRP Therapy

When you seek treatment for hair loss at Florida Medical Clinic’s Dermatology Department, you’ll have access to dermatologists with extensive training. Our doctors use modern treatments like PRP treatment to treat thinning hair and encourage new growth.

In addition to hair restoration, our Dermatology Department is well-known for its all-encompassing care. Patients receive treatment that improves their skin and hair health as a whole, thanks to our holistic approach.

Meet Maria I. Hicks, MD, FAAD

Dr. Hicks is a naturalized U.S. citizen who was raised in Medellin, Colombia. She has been living and working in the Tampa area since 2011. Her fluency in English and Spanish allows her to connect with a wide range of patients. She is driven to help her patients understand what they are going through and develop solutions to their skin issues and hair loss problems.

Her biggest passions outside the medical office are spending time with family  and friends, dancing, traveling, and participating in community events. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Hicks by calling (813) 780-8085.