Hair loss can be due to a number of factors, from genetic baldness to stress. There are many hair regrowth solutions on the market, but one treatment is gaining increasing popularity: platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
This technique, first used in the “vampire facelift,” uses growth factors from your own blood to simulate the regeneration of hair follicles. When done consistently, PRP can significantly increase the length and thickness of your hair. The earlier you begin treatment in the hair loss process, the better.
What is PRP and How Does it Aid Hair Growth?
Blood is composed of two major components: red blood cells and plasma. Red blood cells supply oxygen to your bodily tissues, while plasma is the liquid medium that those cells flow through. Other types of cells are present in plasma: white blood cells, which are part of the immune system, and platelets, which cause blood clotting and are rich in growth factors.
Growth factors are chemical signals that stimulate cell regeneration. When you get a cut, they are what signal the surrounding skin to grow and seal the cut. Recently, the power of growth factors has been discovered to aid conditions like arthritis, skin aging, and hair growth.
What is the PRP Procedure Like?
The PRP procedure takes less than an hour and requires little to no downtime. Your doctor draws a sample of your blood, then places it into a centrifuge, which spins the blood and separates the red blood cells from the plasma. This portion of the procedure only takes about ten minutes.
Then, your doctor reinjects the separated plasma into the treatment area. PRP is particularly effective on androgenic alopecia, otherwise known as male or female pattern baldness. Plasma is injected into the scalp approximately every half inch across the area of thinning hair, which takes about a half hour or less.
Caring for the treatment area is as easy as caring for a mild scrape or cut. Use an ice pack or Tylenol if you experience any pain or swelling. Even taking a hot shower helps, as it enhances circulation and blood flow across the scalp.
A consistent series of treatments provides the best results. Plan to return for treatments once a month for the first 3-4 months, and afterwards, every 3-6 months. Results generally become visible in 2-3 months.
If you are interested in PRP for hair regrowth, call us to schedule a consultation. We look forward to assisting you with this cutting-edge procedure.
