Hair loss is frustrating for anyone who experiences it. Many seek ways to reverse or slow hair loss. There are many over-the-counter treatments as well as surgical options. PRP is another form of hair loss therapy that is relatively new to the market.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
Platelet-rich plasma or PRP uses components from the patient's blood to create an injection designed to heal and promote tissue regeneration. Platelets and plasma are the regenerative and protein-rich components of blood. PRP injections use the patient’s own platelets and plasma for their treatments, reducing the chances of complications or adverse reactions after treatment.
How Does PRP Work?
The PRP injections contain proteins that help the body to repair damaged tissue. Due to its healing qualities, PRP has been used effectively to treat injuries such as pulled muscles and torn ligaments sustained by athletes. The components of PRP injections help the body speed up tissue repair by using its natural elements. PRP is composed of platelets, the component of blood responsible for healing and regeneration. PRP helps to regrow hair by helping to heal the damaged follicle allowing hair to begin to grow again. PRP (Platelets and plasma) is injected directly into the damaged follicle to help reverse the hair loss process.
How Do PRP Treatments Help with Hair Loss?
Not all hair loss is attributable to the same cause. Some types of hair loss are due to damage to the hair follicle. In these cases, PRP's reparative components could help stimulate hair growth (and regrowth) by reversing the damage to the follicle. It is important to remember that PRP therapy is not necessarily a cure for the root cause of hair loss. Therefore, it is usually necessary to schedule regular PRP treatments at set intervals to continue to see hair growth results. The frequency of treatments would depend on various factors and should be decided after consultation with a professional experienced in PRP therapy.
Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy Safe?
PRP has been used in Europe in various medical areas, yet, it is relatively new here in the United States. Over the last few years, several published studies have been conducted regarding the safety of PRP, and the overall opinion is that PRP is a safe and, for many, effective treatment for hair loss. Still, the effects can vary from person to person.
What are the Potential Side Effects?
PRP injections involve using your blood, which reduces the risk of many complications. However, like any procedure, there are certain risks associated with PRP treatments. The most common include infection, scar tissue, injury to blood vessels, and calcification at the injection locations.
There are also instances where PRP might not be a good fit for you. Many of these depend on medical history or lifestyle choices. For example, your provider may recommend against PRP for hair loss therapy for the reasons below or others.
· You are a heavy smoker.
· You have a chronic condition such as thyroid disease, liver disease, or cancer
· You take blood thinners or have a low platelet count.
· You have a history of substance abuse.
How Much Does PRP Cost?
PRP treatments involve three treatments over approximately four to six weeks with follow-up maintenance treatments. The cost of PRP treatments will vary based on a few factors unique to your needs.
If you would like to learn more about PRP for hair loss and how it might help you, contact us at Upkeep Med Spa today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.