If so, you may have heard of PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy. It is a relatively new treatment for hair loss that is gaining popularity due to its effectiveness.
So, what is PRP, and how does it work to help with hair loss? PRP is a procedure that harnesses the healing properties of your own blood plasma. A sample of your blood is taken and processed in a centrifuge to separate the plasma from the other components. The plasma is then injected into the scalp to promote hair growth.
How does PRP work? Platelets are tiny cells found in your blood that contain important proteins and growth factors. When injected into the scalp, these growth factors stimulate the dormant hair follicles, encouraging them to start producing thicker, healthier hair. In addition, the platelets also stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which can help to strengthen and rejuvenate the scalp.
PRP has been found to be extremely effective for certain types of hair loss. It is especially helpful for those suffering from androgenic alopecia, also known as female or male pattern baldness. Recently, new studies are also showing PRP as an effective adjunct to treatment for scarring types of hair loss such as lichen planopilaris, frontal fibrosing alopecia, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA). Studies have show that PRP treatments can help to reduce shedding and increase the thickness of existing hairs.