Can PRP help with Hair Loss?

Hair loss, also called alopecia, is extremely common, affecting millions of Americans each year.  This emotionally devastating condition may be caused by genetics, hormones, stress and hair grooming practices.

Most conventional treatment methods are painful or unreliable, involving medication to slow down hair loss or transplants to hair plugs to repopulate areas of thinning hair.

But what if we told you there was a less invasive, non-surgical option that can be completed in less than 30 minutes with minimal downtime?  No, you’re not dreaming.  The latest innovation in hair restoration is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.

Using the same techniques behind the now-famous “vampire facial,” PRP therapy has shown incredibly promising results in increasing patient’s hair count, hair thickness and the growth phase of the hair cycle.

 

How does PRP work?

In PRP therapy, your blood is drawn and separated in a centrifuge into its two main components: red blood cells and plasma.  The plasma, rich in growth factors, stem cells, white blood cells, platelets and nutrients, is then reinjected into the areas of hair loss on the scalp to stimulate dormant hair follicles to start growing hair again.

 

Are there risks involved?

Beyond the scare factor of blood and needles, PRP therapy is surprisingly risk-free. In the event of mild discomfort, patients are advised to apply an ice pack to the treatment site or take a Tylenol.  Temporary bruising may occur, but usually resolves within a week or two.

 

Is PRP for everyone?

PRP therapy works by promoting hair growth when follicles are present.  In most cases of hair loss—whether through genetic predisposition, hormonal issues, stress or any other forms of alopecia—hair follicles remain active, especially in early stages, although they produce only tiny hairs.  Cases of extreme hair loss, where all follicles are scarred over, are generally not candidates for this treatment.

 

How soon before I see results?

For optimal results, consistency is fundamental.  The average treatment plan consists of three to four sessions once per month, followed by one every three to six months thereafter.  Following such a regime will usually produce visible results within the first two to three months of treatment.  What patients tend to see first is a decrease in hair shedding, followed by hair regrowth, gradually increasing in length.

Depending on the severity of the condition and treatment goals, your dermatologist may recommend PRP therapy as part of a multifaceted plan to treat hair thinning and loss.

 

So, are you in?

If you’re interested in seeing if PRP therapy is right from you, schedule a consultation online or call us at (301) 679-5772 to discuss your unique skin care needs. At Eternal Dermatology, our pledge is simple – in order to provide uncompromising quality in patient care, you’ll always be treated by a highly-skilled, board-certified dermatologist. No exceptions.

 

Click here for a list of more medical conditions and cosmetic procedures performed at Eternal Dermatology.