Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy for hair loss is a treatment in which a person’s blood is drawn, processed, and injected back into the scalp in the area of hair loss. Studies have shown that PRP can stimulate hair growth in patients with Androgenic Alopecia, a common, chronic hair loss disorder.

While there are two major FDA approved drugs to treat Androgenic Alopecia, Minoxidil and Finasteride, PRP has been shown to activate and release numerous growth factors that stimulate the development of new hair follicles.

PRP THERAPY PROCESS:

Step 1: Blood is drawn from your arm and placed into a centrifuge

Step 2: After approximately 10 minutes in the centrifuge, the blood is separated into several layers and the Platelet Rich Plasma is removed and prepared in syringes

Step 3: The plasma is then injected into the scalp in the areas that need increased hair growth

Generally, a series of 3-6 treatments spaced 1 month apart are needed to lay a foundation for improved hair growth. After a series is completed, it is recommended that a maintenance treatment is performed every 4-6 months.

**Dr. Green recommends a combination of PRP along with vitamins or FDA approved medication in order to achieve best results.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for Hair Loss?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for hair loss uses the body’s own blood plasma to promote hair growth in male or female patients who experience a type of hair loss called Androgenic Alopecia.

How does PRP work?
PRP uses a concentrated form of the body’s own blood cells. These cells are referred to as Platelet Rich Plasma and are a combination of plasma and growth factors that are injected into the scalp to stimulate the hair follicle. Stimulating the hair follicle helps to prolong the growth phase of the follicle. PRP is used on its own, in conjunction with other hair loss treatments, and after hair transplant surgery to help patients achieve the best results in hair regrowth.

How is the treatment performed?
The procedure is performed in the office in 3 easy steps. First, a small amount of blood is drawn into a tube. Second, the tube is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma, platelet poor plasma, and red blood cells. Finally, the platelet rich plasma is injected back into the scalp with a series of small injections.

How many treatments are necessary?
Hair loss is an on-going condition. It is recommended that a series of 4-6 treatments are performed initially, spaced 1 month apart. After the initial series is completed, patients return 2-4 times per year depending on the level of hair growth they are looking to achieve and maintain. While this is a standardized protocol, PRP treatment is always tailored to individual patients and will be discussed in detail during the consultation.

When can I resume normal activities?
PRP treatment for hair loss is considered minimally invasive. Directly after treatment, the scalp will be mildly red and tender and this may last anywhere from 24-36 hours after treatment. Despite this redness and tenderness, all activities (including regular hair hygiene) can be resumed immediately after treatment.