Author: Dr.Steffy Mariyam Reji (Specialist Dermatologist – WELLKINS Medical Centre)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for hair loss is a non-surgical method that uses the patient’s own blood plasma, which is rich in platelets and growth factors, to stimulate hair growth. The treatment involves taking a small amount of the patient’s blood, which is then processed to isolate the plasma and platelets. Usually, this is done by placing the blood in a centrifuge machine which rapidly spins the blood into three different parts – platelet rich plasma, platelet poor plasma and red blood cells. This concentrated plasma (rich in platelets) is then expertly injected into the scalp in the area of concern to promote healing and regeneration.
What are the effects of PRP treatment?
PRP can have a wide range of rejuvenating effects on the body depending targeted area. Some of the potential effects of PRP on the body include:
- Accelerated healing of injuries, such as ligament and tendon sprains and tears
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved function and range of motion
- Increased collagen production, which can improve the appearance of wrinkles and acne scars
How can PRP help with hair loss?
The growth factors in the plasma are believed to stimulate the hair follicles, promoting new hair growth and thickening of existing hair. The treatment may be most effective for those with androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) and those with thinning hair. The effects of PRP treatment for hair loss can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their hair loss. Some of the potential effects of the treatment may include:
- New hair growth: PRP treatment is believed to stimulate the hair follicles, promoting the growth of new hair.
- Thickening of existing hair: The growth factors in the plasma may also help to thicken existing hair, making it appear fuller and healthier.
- Reduced hair loss: The treatment may also help to reduce the rate of hair loss, slowing the progression of hair thinning.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatment harnesses the healing properties of your own blood to stimulate hair follicles and promote new hair growth. This natural and safe procedure involves extracting a small amount of your blood, separating the platelet-rich plasma, and injecting it into targeted areas of your scalp. With each session, the rejuvenating properties of PRP work to nourish and revitalize your hair follicles, helping to reverse the effects of hair loss. Experience the magic of PRP treatment as your hair begins to regrow naturally, restoring your confidence and bringing back that youthful vitality.
What should I know about PRP treatments before getting it?
PRP treatment is usually done in a series of 4-6 sessions, spaced about 4-6 weeks apart, and maintenance treatments may be needed. Each session may last somewhere between 30 minutes and 1 hour depending on the type of balding and area targeted. One should note that as in every kind of medical treatment, results may vary across individuals, and it is not guaranteed to work for everyone. This is also why it is imperative to consult with your doctor to identify your type of concern and discuss the suitability of PRP treatment for your specific concern.
It is also important to understand that the effects of PRP treatment for hair loss are not immediate and may take several weeks or months to become apparent. Normally, optimal results are observed after around three to six months and once the results are more obvious, your treatment sessions might be spaced out further. Regardless, depending on the results, you may choose to resume or cease the treatment after consultation with the expert.
Often, patients may expect immediate results from the treatment, but it needs to be reiterated that it is a slow process that requires patience and commitment to the course of treatment prescribed by your doctor.
Perhaps most importantly, please take care that your PRP treatment is done by a qualified medical professional, such as a dermatologist to reduce the risk of complications.
Are there any side effects with PRP treatments in hair loss?
Generally, there are minimal side effects and little down time after PRP treatments for hair loss meaning that it is usually very safe. However, mild forms of headaches, scalp tenderness and minimal bleeding since it involves superficial injections on the scalp. This tenderness can be controlled to a large extent by the physician using topical numbing treatments or vibrational distraction techniques and so on. Post-treatment care can also address any mild side effects that may affect.
WELLKINS offers expert PRP treatment for those experiencing hair loss concerns. To schedule consultation, please call us at +974 4444 2099 or schedule online very easily via our digital health locker.
