Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is fairly well-known for its use in facial rejuvenation procedures, including with microneedling. It’s sometimes called the “Vampire Facial®” or “Vampire Facelift” because the treatment involves using the patient’s own blood. However, relatively few people know that PRP therapy is also used as a hair loss treatment at our London, Ontario dermatology practice.
The same growth factors contained in platelet-rich plasma that stimulate the production of collagen in the skin also work to help stimulate the activity of hair follicles and promote new hair growth. PRP is part of a multifaceted approach to treat hair thinning and loss that I’ll describe below in more detail.
What Is PRP?
PRP therapy has a long track record for medical uses, such as promoting injury healing and alleviating the symptoms of arthritis. Its use for cosmetic purposes is more recent but is supported by clinical research. The process of producing PRP involves drawing a patient’s blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate red blood cells from the plasma. The platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the balding area of the scalp. This nonsurgical alternative to hair transplant procedures is popular because it’s faster and less costly than other options.
Can You Benefit From PRP Hair Restoration Therapy?
Most women and men with thinning hair are candidates for PRP therapy. The first step is to schedule an appointment with a Royal College-certified dermatologist to determine what’s causing the hair to thin and to ensure there isn’t an underlying disease. Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is the most common reason for hair loss among both men and women. By age 60, 45% of men and 35% of women have developed male pattern baldness.
Does PRP Therapy Really Work?
Numerous studies evaluating the effectiveness of PRP therapy for hair restoration found that it was successful for patients with male pattern baldness, chronic telogen effluvium and alopecia areata. The provider’s injection technique and training are important to get successful results.
Do Other Hair Loss Treatments Work?
Combining treatments is the most effective way to treat hair loss. Our treatment plans often include remedies such as over-the-counter minoxidil (Rogaine®) or prescription-only finasteride (Propecia®) along with HEALITE. HEALITE is a low-level light therapy (LLLT) treatment that produces specific wavelengths of light. Those light wavelengths are absorbed into the layer of skin where hair follicles are located, strengthening both the cells and the surrounding area and promoting hair growth by prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle.
These hair restoration treatments are designed for women and men with mild to moderate hair loss and work best before hair loss becomes pronounced. To see a dermatologist about your treatment options, contact our London, Ontario, practice using the online form to request a consultation or call us at (519) 472-8686 to schedule an appointment.
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