Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for hair loss has emerged as a revolutionary treatment for various medical conditions, including hair loss. This minimally invasive procedure utilizes the body’s natural healing processes to stimulate hair regrowth and improve hair density.
In this article, we will look into the efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of PRP for hair loss, drawing from numerous scientific studies and clinical trials.
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PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy for hair loss begins with a small amount of the patient’s blood being drawn, much like in a routine blood test. This blood is then processed in a specialized medical centrifuge to separate the red blood cells from the plasma and platelets. The platelets are concentrated, and this platelet-rich plasma is injected back into the scalp.
To put it simply, platelets are components of blood that play a crucial role in clotting. However, what makes them particularly valuable in PRP therapy is the presence of growth factors within these platelets. These growth factors are essential for the therapeutic benefits of PRP.
Functions of Platelets:
The growth factors and cytokines in PRP work together to stimulate hair follicles, helping to maintain and improve hair strength and vitality.
The hair cycle is a continuous process that involves three key phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. During the anagen phase, which is the growth phase, hair actively grows as cells in the hair follicle divide rapidly. This is followed by the catagen phase, a brief transition period where hair growth stops, and the follicle begins to shrink. Finally, the telogen phase is the resting phase, where the hair remains in the follicle but no longer grows. Eventually, the hair sheds, and the cycle restarts with a new anagen phase.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has a wide range of applications in medicine due to its ability to promote healing and tissue regeneration. PRP is primarily used in the following areas:
PRP therapy has been used in various medical fields for several decades, but its application in hair loss treatment is relatively recent.
The use of PRP for hair restoration began gaining traction in the early 2000s. However, it was not until the past decade that it became more widely recognized and studied.
Initial studies on the use of PRP for hair loss focused on its potential to stimulate hair follicle activity and promote regrowth of an existing but miniaturized hair follicles. Early clinical trials and case reports provided promising results, leading to increased interest and further research into this treatment modality.
Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PRP in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA) including female pattern hair loss (FPHL).
Paolino et al reviewed the literature on PRP treatment for female androgenetic alopecia, highlighting its safety and effectiveness. They found that PRP significantly improved hair density and thickness in women with AGA16.
In a comparative study, where the efficacy of PRP injections versus topical minoxidil in adults with AGA was evaluated. The study concluded that PRP was more effective in promoting hair regrowth and improving hair density than minoxidil17.
A systematic review by Gezim Dervishi et al, 2020, analyzed multiple clinical trials and found consistent evidence supporting the use of PRP for pattern hair loss. The review emphasized PRP’s potential in providing significant hair regrowth with minimal side effects18.
The 2010’s saw a significant rise in the popularity of PRP therapy for hair loss. Dermatologists and hair restoration specialists began incorporating PRP into their practice, and numerous studies were conducted to evaluate its efficacy and safety.
Gentile et al. in 2015 conducted one of the early randomized placebo-controlled trials, demonstrating the positive effects of PRP on hair regrowth13.
In recent years, the body of evidence supporting PRP for hair loss has continued to grow. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses, such as the one by Gezim Dervishi et al. (2020), have reinforced the effectiveness of PRP in treating androgenetic alopecia.
Studies have also focused on optimizing PRP preparation methods and understanding the long-term effects of treatment.
PRP therapy works by delivering high concentrations of growth factors directly to the hair follicles. These growth factors enhance the proliferation of dermal papilla cells, increase vascularization (the process of growing blood vessels into a tissue to improve oxygen and nutrient supply), and prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
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The primary mechanism behind PRP for hair loss is the stimulation of hair follicle activity. Platelets contain growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which promote cell proliferation, tissue regeneration, and angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels).
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy for hair loss involves a three-step process. First, a small amount of blood 20-35 ml is drawn from the patient, similar to a routine blood test. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which separates the red blood cells from the platelet-rich plasma.
The PRP, now concentrated with growth factors, is injected into the scalp at the level of the hair follicles. These injections stimulate the follicles, encouraging natural hair growth and increasing blood supply to the area.
This process can help to strengthen hair shafts, and improve overall scalp health. Typically, multiple treatment sessions are needed, spaced about a month apart, to achieve optimal results. Maintenance treatments every few months may also be recommended to sustain hair growth and health.
The PRP treatment for hair loss is a multi-step process designed to maximize the benefits of platelet-rich plasma:
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of hair loss, affecting both men and women. Behrangi et al. examined the effect of PRP on androgenetic alopecia and found that PRP therapy significantly improved hair density and thickness in both male and female patients19.
Female pattern hair loss is characterized by diffuse thinning over the crown and is a common cause of hair loss in women. In a research done by Tawfik & Omar, a randomized placebo-controlled study on the efficacy of PRP for female pattern hair loss. The study reported significant improvements in hair density and patient satisfaction in the PRP-treated group compared to the placebo group14.
PRP for hair loss involves concentrating platelets from the patient’s blood and injecting them into the scalp. Platelets are rich in growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), which play critical roles in tissue repair and regeneration.
These growth factors stimulate the proliferation of dermal papilla cells, enhance blood supply to hair follicles, and prolong the anagen phase of the hair cycle.
A randomized placebo-controlled study by Rubina demonstrated that PRP significantly increased hair density and thickness compared to placebo. The study involved a half-head design, where one side of the scalp received PRP injections while the other side received placebo injections. The results showed a noticeable improvement in hair growth on the PRP-treated side4.
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Long-Term Benefits
The long-term benefits of PRP for hair loss are supported by multiple studies. For instance, a 2017 study by Pietro et al. evaluated the role of growth factors and cytokine concentrations in PRP and their impact on hair regrowth. The study found that both activated and non-activated PRP significantly improved hair density and thickness over time2.
However, it’s important to note that despite these promising results, the effects of PRP can diminish over time. To sustain the benefits, especially for DHT-sensitive hair follicles, repeated treatments are necessary.
PRP can help stimulate hair regrowth by activating dormant hair follicles and encouraging new growth. The concentrated platelets in PRP release growth factors that promote tissue repair and regeneration, including in the hair follicles.
However, it’s important to be realistic about the capabilities of PRP. The treatment is not designed to create new hair follicles in completely bald areas, as this is not possible.
Hair follicles contain two types of stem cells: dermal papilla (DP) stem cells and bulge stem cells. The bulge stem cells communicate with DP cells to stimulate hair growth. When hair follicle miniaturization occurs due to aging or the influence of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the number of DP cells decreases.
Imagine starting with a healthy hair follicle containing 100% of its DP cells. If, over time, due to factors like androgenetic alopecia (AGA) or aging, the follicle shrinks, and the DP cells drop to less than 50% of their original amount, PRP is unlikely to restore the follicle’s ability to produce healthy hair.
In such cases, the only viable solution may be hair transplantation. However, if you haven’t reached that critical 50% loss of DP cells, medical therapies like mesotherapy, PRP, exosomes, or stem cells could still be effective.
While PRP is not a guaranteed cure for all types of hair loss, it has shown promising results, especially for individuals with androgenetic alopecia or alopecia areata, where bald patches appear.
Yes, PRP can make hair thicker. The growth factors in the PRP promote the health and growth of hair follicles, which can result in thicker, stronger hair strands. By enhancing blood flow and nutrient delivery to the scalp, PRP stimulates dormant hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle.
This not only increases the density of hair but also improves the overall quality and thickness of each hair strand. Patients typically start to see an improvement in hair thickness within a few months of starting PRP therapy.
Regular treatments can help to maintain these results, providing a fuller and more voluminous appearance to the hair.
Yes, PRP can be effectively used in combination with other hair loss treatments. It is often used alongside topical treatments like minoxidil or oral medications like finasteride to enhance overall results.
Additionally, PRP can be used as an adjunct therapy to hair transplant surgery, improving graft survival and promoting quicker healing and regrowth. Combining PRP with these treatments can provide a multifaceted approach to combating hair loss, addressing different aspects of hair growth and follicle health.
This integrative approach can lead to more comprehensive and satisfactory results for patients suffering from various types of hair loss.
Here’s a comparison table comparing Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) with other common hair loss treatments:
| Aspect | PRP | Minoxidil | Finasteride | Hair Transplant Surgery | LLLT (Laser Therapy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Utilizes patient’s own blood platelets to stimulate hair follicles | Increases blood flow to hair follicles | Inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, reducing DHT levels | Surgical relocation of hair follicles from donor area to balding area | Uses low-level lasers to stimulate hair growth |
| Application Method | Injections into the scalp | Topical application (liquid or foam) | Oral medication (pill) | Surgical procedure under local anesthesia | Devices like helmets, caps, combs |
| Treatment Frequency | Every 3-6 months | Daily application | Daily intake | One or multiple sessions; results are permanent | Multiple times per week, ongoing maintenance required |
| Effectiveness | Varies; generally good for early to moderate hair loss | Effective for many users, especially early-stage | Effective in many men, less in women | Highly effective, especially for advanced hair loss | Effective for early to moderate hair loss |
| Side Effects | Minimal; possible mild pain at injection site | Scalp irritation, dryness, shedding | Sexual dysfunction, decreased libido, breast tenderness | Infection, scarring, swelling, pain at donor/recipient sites | Minimal; possible scalp irritation |
| Cost | Moderate to high ($500-$2000 per session) | Low to moderate ($30-$60 per month) | Moderate ($20-$80 per month) | High ($4000-$15000 depending on extent) | Moderate ($200-$800 for devices) |
| Regrowth Onset | Several months | 3-6 months | 3-6 months | Immediate (transplanted hair); full results in 12-18 months | 3-6 months |
| Longevity of Results | Long-term with maintenance | Requires continuous use | Long-term with continuous use | Permanent | Long-term with ongoing use |
| FDA Approval | Not specifically FDA-approved for hair loss | FDA-approved | FDA-approved | Surgical procedures are medical practices | FDA-cleared devices |
PRP for hair loss is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated treatment with minimal side effects. The most common side effects are mild and include scalp tenderness, swelling, redness at the injection sites, and a headache that may last 1-2 days after the procedure.
Serious complications are rare, as PRP utilizes the patient’s own blood, significantly reducing the risk of allergic reactions or infections.
The risks associated with PRP are relatively minimal, primarily because it uses the patient’s own blood, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions or adverse effects. However, potential risks include infection at the injection site, injury to blood vessels or nerves, and temporary side effects like redness, swelling, or bruising.
There is also a small risk of calcification or scar tissue formation at the injection sites. These risks are generally low when the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional in a sterile environment. Patients should discuss any concerns or potential complications with their provider before undergoing PRP therapy.
PRP is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a trained medical professional. Since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or transmission of diseases is extremely low.
The procedure is minimally invasive, involving only small injections into the scalp. While there are some risks, such as infection or injury to blood vessels or nerves, these are rare and typically minor.
Most patients tolerate PRP treatments well with few complications. As with any medical procedure, it is important to have PRP administered by an experienced practitioner to ensure safety and efficacy.
PRP has minimal side effects due to its autologous nature, meaning it uses the patient’s own blood. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the injection sites. These symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
Rarely, patients might experience infection, injury to blood vessels or nerves, or the formation of scar tissue at the injection sites. Overall, PRP is well-tolerated, and serious side effects are uncommon.
Patients should follow post-procedure care instructions provided by their healthcare professional to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal healing.
PRP may cause temporary hair shedding as part of the hair growth cycle. This shedding phase, known as telogen effluvium, can occur as the hair follicles are stimulated and enter a new growth phase.
This is a normal response and is usually followed by the regrowth of healthier, thicker hair. Patients should be aware that this initial shedding is a common part of the hair restoration process with PRP and is generally a positive sign that the treatment is working to rejuvenate the hair follicles and promote new hair growth.
The PRP procedure involves multiple injections into the scalp, which can cause some discomfort. However, pain is generally minimal and well-tolerated. Healthcare providers often use topical numbing creams or local anaesthetics to reduce discomfort during the injections.
Some patients may experience mild soreness or tenderness in the treated area for a day or two following the procedure, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief medications.
Overall, while there may be some discomfort, most patients find the procedure to be relatively painless and worth the benefits.
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Many dermatologists and hair restoration specialists advocate for PRP therapy due to its natural approach and minimal risk profile. Geoffrey Dreher, from The Johns Hopkins University, emphasizes that PRP is a promising treatment for hair loss, particularly for patients who prefer a more natural option over pharmaceutical treatments5.
Renowned institutions like the Cleveland Clinic have also acknowledged the potential of PRP in hair restoration. According to a publication by the Cleveland Clinic in 2020, PRP may help regrow hair in patients experiencing hair loss, making it a viable option for those seeking non-surgical treatments20.
Many patients have reported positive experiences with PRP for hair loss. They often note significant improvements in hair thickness, density, and overall hair health. Testimonials highlight the natural and minimally invasive nature of PRP therapy, which appeals to individuals seeking non-surgical hair restoration options.
Ongoing research aims to optimize PRP preparation methods and explore its full potential in hair loss treatment. Studies are investigating the ideal concentration of platelets, the frequency of treatments, and the combination of PRP with other therapies.
Personalized Approach in PRP Therapy
While specialists in the hair restoration field are discussing the standardization of PRP protocols, we at IdealofMeD believe that the future of medicine lies in a personalized approach. Every patient is unique, and even the slightest differences can impact treatment outcomes.
For example, in PRP therapy, the concentration of platelets in the blood varies from person to person, centrifuges differ, the skill and experience of the injector play a crucial role, and the frequency of treatments may need to be adjusted based on individual needs. Therefore, we believe that PRP protocols should be tailored to each patient rather than following a one-size-fits-all standard.
PRP for hair loss has proven to be an effective and safe treatment option for individuals suffering from androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss.
The numerous clinical studies and patient testimonials highlight its potential to promote hair regrowth, improve hair density, and enhance overall hair health. As research continues to advance, PRP therapy is likely to become an increasingly important tool in the fight against hair loss.
Save our detailed guide on PRP for hair loss and read it anytime you want. Click below to download your PDF now!
Yes, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy can stimulate hair regrowth. PRP involves injecting a concentration of a patient’s own platelets into the scalp to promote healing and hair growth. The growth factors in the PRP can help stimulate hair follicles, potentially leading to thicker and healthier hair.
PRP is considered effective for many people experiencing hair loss, particularly those in the early stages of thinning hair or with androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). Results can vary, but many patients see noticeable improvements in hair density and thickness after a few treatments.
The main downsides of PRP therapy include:
PRP treatment is not recommended for:
PRP is expensive due to several factors:
It’s common to experience increased hair shedding shortly after PRP treatments. This is typically a temporary phase known as “shedding,” where weaker hairs are shed to make way for stronger, healthier hair growth stimulated by the PRP treatment.
PRP and hair transplants serve different purposes:
Some discomfort or pain may be experienced during PRP injections. However, many practitioners use local anesthesia or numbing cream to minimize pain during the procedure. Post-treatment soreness and mild bruising are also possible.
Typically, patients need 3 to 4 initial treatments spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. Maintenance treatments are usually recommended every 4 to 6 months thereafter to sustain results.
Results can last up to 12 months with proper maintenance. Continuous follow-up treatments are often necessary to maintain hair growth and prevent further hair loss.
Both treatments have their benefits:
Yes, PRP can help thicken hair. By stimulating hair follicles and improving blood supply to the scalp, PRP can increase the thickness and density of hair strands, leading to fuller-looking hair.
Janna Strong is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years in the field. She has consulted for more than 500 individuals globally, offering expert advice and treatments. Her extensive experience and commitment to patient care make her a trusted authority in dermatology.
