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PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy for Hair Loss
PRP treatment for hair loss
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a three-step medical treatment process for hair loss in men and women. The process consists of drawing blood from a certain part of the body, and injected it into the scalp area. The purpose is to increase blood circulation to the scalp, thus promoting hair growth.
Some experts in the medical sector believe that PRP is an effective solution for hair loss, but research and trials are still sparse, at this stage. The PRP procedure is usually done alongside other treatments, which can enhance its effectiveness.
Although research to prove PRP's effectiveness are still sparse, the results so far are quite promising. PRP therapy has actually been around since the 1980s, as a healing treatment for ligaments and muscles, but only in recent times has it been considered as a hair loss treatment.
What is the PRP therapy process?
PRP requires three treatments, spanning 4-6 weeks, depending on the individual. Additionally, maintenance treatments are also required, usually twice a year. The blood is drawn from a donation area, typically from the arm, and put into a centrifuge (a machine that spins rapidly to separate fluids of different densities). Then, after about 10 minutes, the blood will have been separated into three layers: platelet-poor plasma, platelet-rich plasma, and red blood cells. The platelet-rich plasma is drawn into a syringe and then injected into the thinning areas of the scalp.
It should be noted that, despite its research and practices being quite promising so far, PRP, as a treatment for hair loss, is still very much in its infant stage, and clinical evidence of its effectiveness is still insufficient.
Are there any risks with PRP therapy for hair loss?
PRP treatment for hair loss is a process that involves injecting bloody into your scalp, therefore there is always some risk of side effects, with the most common being injury to the blood vessels, and scar tissue. However, despite the minor risks, PRP is generally regarded as a safe treatment for hair loss.
Is PRP painful? Generally, no, but sometimes the doctor will inject a local anaesthetic into the scalp, to stop the PRP injection from causing pain. It's rare that patients need strong painkillers after the PRP therapy.
How much does PRP cost?
Unfortunately, PRP is not cheap. UK prices range from £600-£800 for the single treatment, and up to £2,000 for the triple treatment. Insurance companies consider PRP as an 'experimental' treatment, therefore more conclusive evidence is needed before it is covered.
Is PRP effective for treating hair loss?
As already stated in this article, PRP has not yet been approved as a medical treatment for hair loss, however, results from PRP in some male and female patients have shown to be quite promising. We will know more about PRP's effects on the hair in the years to come.
What other treatments can PRP be used with?
PRP can be used with a host of other hair loss treatments and hair care products. Many patients combine PRP with topical solutions like minoxidil, due to its effects for blood circulation in the scalp. For patients wanting to avoid medical drugs, keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) serum is a safer alternative that can work just as well.
Supplements are also very popular with patients who have had PRP treatment. HR23+® is a safe and natural formula, therefore it does not pose any risks of negative side-effects. HR23+® works to stimulate blood in the scalp, therefore it can work effectively with the PRP treatment.
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