SCALP PRP FOR HAIRLOSS

Few dermatologic conditions cause more angst than the premature loss of hair. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is emerging as a novel treatment for a variety of medical conditions, including alopecia, or hair loss.  Evidence is accumulating in the scientific literature for its safety and efficacy.

WHAT EXACTLY IS PRP?

According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, “PRP is blood plasma containing a concentration of platelets many times greater than normally found in blood.”  Various growth factors are stored within platelets (platelet derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, and others).  Upon activation of the platelets, usually by a coagulation event, the platelets release the growth factors, which in turn trigger the pathways to cellular proliferation and collagen synthesis.

HOW IS PRP PREPARED AND USED?

PRP is prepared just prior to the procedure to be performed, in an outpatient setting, using a centrifuge, or other automated device, that separates whole red blood cells from the platelet-rich plasma.  This platelet-rich plasma is then drawn up into separate syringes and injected directly into the scalp at regular intervals using either a syringe, a microneedling device, or a combination of both.

WHAT TYPE OF HAIR LOSS IS PRP USED FOR?

PRP is increasingly being used in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA, or male/female pattern hairloss).  It may be used as monotherapy or adjunct therapy in addition to other known treatments such as hair transplants, minoxidil, or finasteride.  It is thought that activated PRP stimulates the growth and differentiation of the hair follicle stem cells by different pathways.  This stimulates hair growth.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR PRP AND WHEN CAN PATIENTS EXPECT RESULTS?

Most patients are good candidates for PRP therapy, because it has relatively few side effects.  Contraindications include a history of platelet dysfunction, clotting disorders, pregnancy, local or disseminated infection, and traumatic hair loss.  Currently, there are no universal protocols or guidelines, although most practitioners inject every 3-6 weeks for a total of 5-10 treatments.  Peak of maximum efficacy occurs after 4-6 months of regular treatments.

This is a novel and emerging therapy for hair loss and mounting evidence supports its therapeutic effectiveness and safety.  More studies are currently being done to further elucidate the ideal treatment schedule and to standardize methods.  If you are suffering from hair loss or suspect that you may be, a consultation with a board certified dermatologist is the first step in identifying the cause and formulating a treatment plan which may include PRP.