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By: Dr. Matthew Kanaan Medical Director, The PRP Center
When scrolling social media, or even browsing the internet, most of us are bombarded with advertisements for the latest hair loss solutions. That’s because millions of people around the world commonly experience hair loss as they age – and if not due to aging, for various other reasons, such as stress, genetics, or autoimmune disorders, etc. From supplements to serums, there is no shortage of products to choose from. But there’s one treatment in particular that has been wildly growing in popularity, called Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Hair Treatment. But the question is, does it work?
How Long Has PRP Been Around?
Since the 1980s, doctors have been using PRP to help with wound healing due to its ability to decrease inflammation, speed healing, and increase new cell growth. It’s now commonly used by a variety of medical specialties, but is probably most widely known for its frequent use in orthopedics to help relieve joint and tendon pain (caused by injury or arthritis). In fact, some patients rely solely on PRP to delay or even avoid joint replacement all together. In 2006 researchers found that the growth factors in PRP could also aid in promoting hair growth.
How Does PRP for Hair Loss Work?
The PRP process is quite simple: first a phlebotomist draws your blood, then the blood is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets/plasma as much as possible. The concentration is then injected (using a very small needle) directly into the areas of hair loss on your scalp.
What is the Success Rate of PRP for Hair Loss?
While PRP can be a great hair loss solution, it’s important to note that multiple treatments (at least 3) are needed to see new growth (aka increased density). And for some patients, the benefit is simply decreased shedding (keeping what you have), increased thickness in the follicle itself, and/or a faster rate of hair growth. I advise patients to at least give it 3-4 months before they begin to analyze any sort of result.
There are many factors that can affect the success rate – from the patient’s platelet quality to their age. That said, about 70%-80% of patients will experience a noticeable result.
Is PRP Hair Loss Treatment Scientifically Proven?
While the results of hair PRP can vary for patients, below are several studies that support the use of PRP.
1. This 2014 study found an increase an increase in average follicles from 71 to 93 units after 3 months of injections.
2. This 2015 study showed an increase in number of hairs, thickness of hair, and strength of hair roots after 3 months of injections.
3. This 2019 study compared two groups of patients (one using Minoxidil/Rogaine and one using PRP injections). PRP performed much better for hair loss than Rogaine.
Is PRP Hair Loss Treatment Permanent?
PRP for hair loss is permanent in the sense that the results achieved will not disappear immediately after completing the initial series of injections. However, since our hair is constantly cycling through various phases of growth, it’s important to maintain the result. That’s why after the initial series of treatments, I recommend patients get follow-up treatments every 6 months (1-2 times per year).
PRP is not an overnight result. Just like any of the non-surgical hair loss treatment options, it’s a long-term commitment. But for those who stick with it, it’s a remarkable treatment option that uses your body’s own platelets as a natural way to combat hair loss. It’s also much less invasive and costly than surgery.
The PRP Center is Raleigh’s only medical clinic devoted solely to high-quality PRP treatments for hair and skin restoration. All our providers are board-certified physicians or physician assistants and have extensive training and experience in PRP injection techniques.
Learn more about our pricing or schedule an appointment to begin your PRP hair restoration journey.