PRP FOR HAIR LOSS
Thinning hair and hair loss are common conditions that can leave one feeling upset and hopeless. Androgenic alopecia, a type of hair loss influenced by one’s genetics and the environment, affects 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States alone. Many people do not seek help because they feel embarrassed by their condition, yet there are many options for the treatment of hair loss. Platelet Rich Plasma, also known as PRP, is the best way to improve hair loss without surgery or prescription medications. PRP is derived by taking one’s own blood and separating the red blood cells from the blood serum, which is rich in growth factors. When this serum is injected into the scalp, the growth factors attract stem cells in order to stimulate the development of new hair follicles.
WHAT DOES THE TREATMENT ENTAIL?
Blood is drawn from a vein in the arm. This blood is then spun down in a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma. The plasma is then injected into the areas of hair thinning with a small needle.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?
Treatments are recommended once a month for 4-6 months as the initial therapy, followed by a maintenance treatment every 6-12 months.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS?
Risks are minimal since PRP is derived from one’s own blood. Any time a needle is placed in the body, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and nerve damage, yet these risks are very rare. Some patients develop slight bruising, swelling, or redness that can last for 12-24 hours.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?
See one of our providers for a consultation to determine your hair loss diagnosis and assess if you would be a good candidate for PRP treatment.