Can PRP Therapy Work for Hair Loss?
If you are losing your hair and wondering what you can do to restore your hair – but you are wary of the idea of a hair transplant – know that there are options available to you. As a hair transplant and hair restoration specialist – including trusted Dr. Robin Unger – can confirm, transplants are effective but aren’t the right option for every patient. One alternative treatment that may be right for your situation is known as PRP therapy. Platelet rich plasma is a newer (but established), non-transplant treatment that effectively addresses hair loss for many men and women alike.
How PRP Treatment Can Aid in Hair Loss Treatment
PRP can be used by men and women who are experiencing hair loss. Many men started to notice a recession in their 20s or 30s. Eventually, they may notice that they have about half of the hair they once had on their crown or sides. This is known as male pattern baldness and common in over 50 percent of males. For many men, hair loss can have an effect on their confidence and self esteem. Up until recently, hair transplantation was the go to method of treatment. Now, PRP is one of the most popular choices to treat hair loss.
In general, many hair loss doctors recommend PRP in addition to finasteride and minoxidil. Finasteride quells the hormones that are responsible for causing hair loss and also assists in the regrowth of dormant follicles. Minoxidil increases blood flow and nutrient delivery to the hair follicles. This results in stronger hair follicles that can produce thicker, healthier hair.
PRP Entail for Hair Loss
Platelet rich plasma therapy is a relatively simple treatment that involves your own blood being drawn. Afterwards, it will be spun in a centrifuge to extract the red blood cells. Your plasma will be left behind and placed into a syringe. This will be reinjected into your scalp. Bear in mind that a topical anesthetic may be used on your scalp; however, there could still be some minor discomfort.
The PRP contains an abundance of growth factors which stimulate stem cells around the hair follicle. Basically it accelerates the degree of tissue healing and regeneration. The result is new hair. The finasteride and minoxidil compliments the PRP therapy which is why it may be recommended to use these treatments in addition to the PRP.
Who May Be Right for PRP Treatment for Hair Loss
If you are experiencing an early onset of hair loss and you would like to prevent further hair loss from happening, PRP might be right for you. If you are going bald and hoping to treat an area that no longer has healthy follicles, PRP may not work. You should speak with a PRP doctor to learn whether or not you are a candidate before committing to a treatment plan.
