Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a non-surgical treatment used in hair restoration to stimulate hair growth and improve hair density. It leverages the body’s natural healing properties by using platelets, which are components of blood that aid in tissue repair and regeneration.
Let’s look at how PRP works and why it’s gaining popularity in hair restoration:
What is PRP?
PRP is a concentrated solution of plasma (the liquid portion of blood) that contains a higher than normal number of platelets. These platelets release growth factors that can help repair damaged tissues and stimulate the activity of hair follicles.
How is PRP Treatment Done?
- Blood Draw: A small amount of the patient’s blood is drawn, typically from the arm.
- Centrifugation: The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins at high speeds to separate the platelets from the red and white blood cells. This process creates platelet-rich plasma.
- Injection: The concentrated PRP is then injected into the scalp at areas experiencing hair thinning or loss. The growth factors in the PRP stimulate hair follicles, encouraging them to enter the growth phase of the hair cycle.
How Does PRP Make Hair Grow?
The growth factors and proteins released by platelets help to:
- Increase blood supply to the hair follicle, prolonging the growing phase of the hair cycle (anagen phase).
- Promote cell growth and tissue repair, helping damaged or dormant hair follicles recover and become more active.
- Improve hair shaft thickness and hair density, leading to fuller, healthier-looking hair over time.
Effectiveness of PRP for Hair Restoration
PRP is most effective for people experiencing early stages of hair loss, especially androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). It’s not a cure for hair loss but a treatment to promote hair growth and slow down thinning.
Results can vary, but many patients report thicker, stronger hair after a series of treatments, typically spaced a few weeks apart. Full results often become visible after several months.
Benefits of PRP for Hair Loss
- Non-surgical: It’s minimally invasive and doesn’t require downtime, making it an appealing alternative to hair transplants for early hair loss.
- Natural: Since PRP uses the patient’s own blood, there’s no risk of allergic reaction or rejection.
- Combination Therapy: PRP can be used alongside other hair restoration treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine), finasteride (Propecia), or hair transplantation to enhance overall results.
Side Effects and Risks of PRP Therapy
PRP is generally considered safe because it uses the patient’s own blood. However, some potential side effects may include:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the injection sites
- Scalp tenderness or swelling
- Temporary bruising or redness
These side effects usually resolve within a few days.
Who is a Good Candidate for PRP?
The best results for PRP hair restoration therapy are typically realized by those who exhibit the following:
- People with thinning hair, particularly those with androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness).
- Individuals seeking a natural, minimally invasive treatment option for hair loss.
- Patients in the early stages of hair thinning.
PRP is a promising, natural approach to hair restoration that helps rejuvenate hair follicles, promote hair growth, and increase hair density.
While it’s not a cure for baldness, it can be an effective option to slow hair loss and improve hair quality when used alone or in conjunction with other treatments.
Call Bend Vitality Clinic to find out more about our platelet rich plasma (PRP) services. Our medical professionals can help you look your best, do your best, and feel your best.
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