Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy for Hair Growth

By Blazma

In recent years, Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has become one of the available options for people experiencing hair loss. But how does PRP therapy for hair loss work? And what are the potential risks associated with it? Continue reading this article to uncover all the details.

What is PRP for hair growth?

Platelet-rich plasma therapy for hair growth involves a multi-step process where the person's blood is used to stimulate new hair growth and enhance the strength and density of existing hair.

To explain the working principle of PRP injections for hair growth, we must first clarify the role of platelets in tissue healing. Platelets are a type of blood cell that plays a role in promoting healing. When a person sustains an injury, platelets respond immediately, rushing to the site of the wound to try to stop the bleeding.

Researchers theorized that if they could extract platelets and inject them into affected body areas, they would stimulate tissue healing. This led them to separate blood components using a centrifuge and inject the scalp with platelet-rich plasma.

PRP contains a variety of growth factors and proteins that accelerate tissue repair, promote blood vessel formation, enhance cell growth and wound healing, and stimulate collagen production. This means that it will promote hair growth, specifically targeting types of hair loss resulting from follicular damage.

How Many PRP Sessions Before Hair Regrows?

A single session is not sufficient to achieve the desired results; instead, individuals need to undergo multiple sessions of PRP therapy for hair growth.

In reality, the number of sessions varies from person to person depending on age, hormones, genetic factors, pattern, and extent of hair loss. However, healthcare providers typically recommend three to four spaced-out sessions, with a 4 to 6-week interval between each session.

Some individuals may notice results after the third session, while others may require additional sessions before noticing any improvement.

What Happens During PRP Therapy?

This therapy typically takes 45 - 60 minutes and involves the following steps:

  1. Blood draw: 30 to 60 milliliters of blood are drawn and collected in a test tube.
  2. Platelet separation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge to rapidly rotate the blood and separate the platelets from other blood components.
  3. Area anesthesia: The scalp is numbed with a local anesthetic to reduce pain sensation.
  4. Micro-needle pricking: This step is optional; in some cases, the scalp is pricked with a device containing small needles to create small injuries in the skin (aiming to enhance the absorption and effectiveness of the PRP).
  5. Injection: Using small needles, the doctor injects the platelet-rich plasma into the scalp, usually in a grid-like pattern to cover the areas of hair loss.

After the procedure, the doctor provides a set of instructions for scalp care, such as avoiding certain activities or hair products for a short period. However, in general, the patient can resume normal activities.

What are the risks of PRP?

Because PRP consists of the person's blood components, the risk of a reaction to the solution is shallow. However, some individuals may experience the following side effects:

  • Mild pain at the injection site.
  • Temporary bleeding at the injection site.
  • Swelling and itching in the area.
  • Headache.
  • Temporary discoloration of the area.

Is PRP suitable for all demographics?

PRP for hair growth is suitable for both men and women, especially those experiencing hereditary baldness. Here are the groups that may benefit from it:

  1. Men experiencing baldness.
  2. Women experiencing hair loss or thinning due to menopause.
  3. Individuals who have started experiencing hair loss in the past five years.

At the same time, it is not suitable for the following groups:

  1. Those suffering from skin cancer or active scalp infections.
  2. Individuals with a history of bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, blood thinning, or liver inflammation.
  3. Those with health conditions accompanied by hair loss, such as lupus or thyroid disorders.

We advise you to undergo the Hair loss test Package offered by Blazma to identify the cause of your hair loss and receive optimal treatment.

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