PRP for hair loss is a blood plasma enriched with thrombocytes (platelets), which has been used successfully in medicine for years, due to its strong effect to tissue regeneration and healing. Platelet Rich Plasma contains numerous growth factors and bioactive proteins which influence hair regeneration and restoration.
Which cases are suited for PRP method?
Hair loss in genetically conditioned androgenic alopecia, autoimmune alopecia areata or other serious alopecias which, very often represent a therapy problem. By applying the PRP method it is possible to induce new hair growth in the above mentioned conditions. The thin, miniaturised hair gains thickness, and sparse hair becomes thicker. Growth factors and cytokines which are released during PRP therapy stimulate the growth of the existing hair follicles, influence the creation of new blood vessels, regeneration and restoration of the scalp tissue. By applying the PRP method no undesired effects have been recorded so far, and it can be combined with other standard alopecia treatment therapies.
Applying the PRP therapy – androgenic alopecia
PRP therapy is used successfully in androgenic alopecia, alopecia areata and scarring alopecia of different causes. Androgenic alopecia can be successfully treated with PRP therapy. The best results are achieved in the initial stages of hair loss. Therapy activates hair follicles which go from the inactive stage to the active growth phase.
Applying the PRP method – men with androgenetic alopecia
PRP therapy is indicated in men who have hair loss in the frontal-temporal regions and in initial hair loss in the parietal part of the scalp. The therapy produces poorer results in later stages when hair loss encapsulates larger surface of the scalp which then connects with the hair loss in the frontal-temporal regions. The earlier the treatment is started the greater the likelihood of hair re-growth.
Applying PRP method – women with androgenic alopecia
In women with androgenic alopecia the PRP method is applied for the diffuse hair loss as well as in the temporal regions, in all stages. Positive results of the therapy are achieved in over 80% of the cases. The hair becomes thicker, hair loss is reduced and any further thinning process is stopped. To achieve visible results it is necessary to perform 2-3 treatments in 4 month intervals. The PRP therapy effect lasts about a year and after that the procedure needs to be repeated.
Applying the PRP method – alopecia areata
PRP therapy can be applied to those patients which have had several recurrences of the alopecic spots, and in which the standard corticosteroids and minoxidil therapy hasn’t provided the desired outcome. After the PRP therapy a significant reduction in hair loss in alopecic regions is noticeable. To achieve good results 3-4 treatments need to be done in 1-2 month intervals. The therapy can be applied to the eyebrows too if they are affected by the ailment. Considering that the course of the alopecia areata ailment is completely unpredictable, the results achieved with PRP therapy can be reflected in the significantly reduced appearance of new alopecic spots. PRP gives the poorest results in the alopecia universalis ailment – a total hair loss of all bodily hair.
Applying the PRP method – alopecias with scars:
Planopilaris lichen, Folliculitis and Discoid lupus are diseases caused by various inflammatory reactions on the scalp which destroy hair follicles with definitive hair loss on the afflicted areas. If the inflammatory process doesn’t destroy stem cells in the hair follicle and sebaceous glands, PRP therapy can stimulate regrowth. Also, in these cases, PRP method can successfully control the inflammation and progression of the basic illness. PRP method is indicated in cases when standard therapy (corticosteroid, antibiotic) hasn’t given expected results. There should be 3-4 treatments 1-2 month intervals. If scarred alopecia destroys all the stem cells which can produce new hair, hair loss is permanent and the PRP therapy won’t give any results.
What is the procedure when applying PRP therapy?
To get platelet enriched plasma which will be applied into the scalp, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. After the blood centrifuge, the separation produces platelet enriched plasma which will release growth factors and cytokines. Once separated, the blood plasma is injected with miniature needles numerous times into the scalp. The patient is first anesthetised with a local anesthetic in order to reduce the unpleasantness of the treatment to a minimum. This procedure stimulates the growth of hair follicles, creates new blood vessels and regenerates the scalp tissue. After the treatment there are no adverse reactions except mild redness which withdraws 24 hours after the intervention.
