What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?
Platelet-rich Plasma treatments, also known as PRP therapy is a treatment for hair loss that requires your own blood for treatment. Blood is made up of two main components, white and red blood cells and platelets, which are rich in growth factors. These growth factors signal skin cells to function and can treat a range of health concerns includes including signs of aging, thinning hair or helping Alopecia suffers regrow lost hair.
The PRP Process
A PRP treatment begins with a standard blood draw from the patient’s arm. The tube of blood is put into a machine called a centrifuge which spins the blood to separate out the red blood cells from the plasma. The plasma, rich in platelets, is then injected directly into the scalp at the level of the hair follicles. The injections begin across the scalp, at every half inch over the area of thinning hair. The process typically takes less than a half hour. PRP can also be used to stimulate collagen growth resulting in improvement in skin texture, tone, wrinkles and scars.
Candidates
Anyone experiencing hair loss is a good candidate for PRP treatments, but those with early hair loss tend to respond the best. PRP is also used for some patients suffering from certain types of alopecia areata. If you are suffering from wrinkles, stretch marks, or scars, PRP treatments may be an ideal treatment option for you. It is best to sit down with your board-certified dermatologist to determine what the best treatment option is for your skin and hair goals.
Results
For best results, multiple, consistent PRP treatments are key. Treatments are commonly performed once a month for three to four months, then every three to six months depending on the patient’s response and results.
For individuals using PRP for hair loss the first result you will notice is a decrease in hair shedding, followed by regrowth. For individuals using PRP to improve a skin condition you will usually notice improved texture, smaller pores and softer skin within 3 to 4 weeks.
Interested in PRP?
Some of our clinics offer PRP treatments, with more adding the service in the near future. To find a Forefront dermatologist near you that provides this treatment, visit the locations page today.