Platelet Rich Plasma for Hair Loss - What you need to know

The rise of the "vampire" treatment has been happening for nearly 10 years and it continues to grow in popularity. While first rising to popularity as a facial treatment, it is now an increasingly popular treatment for Hair Loss. So what exactly is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?

PRP is the process of reinjecting the platelet rich plasma extracted from your blood. To remove the plasma from your blood, it is run through a centrifuge which separates the plasma from the red blood cells. The plasma in your blood is rich in regenerative white blood cells and growth factors. The plasma is then reinjecting back into the scalp in the areas of hair loss.

The PRP contains enriched growth factors that signal skin cells to function. In the case of hair loss these growth factors stimulate activity in your hair follicles and promote new and healthier hair growth. The process can be a little painful and local anaesthetic can be used to ease the discomfort from the injections.

Other than some bruising and discomfort to the scalp , there are no side effects from the treatment. PRP is not a 100% guaranteed to work treatment, as is the same with any other hair loss treatment and regular maintenance is required to reap the full benefits. In most cases it is recommended to have PRP treatments every 4 to 6 months. A full PRP treatment will take around 60-90 minutes.

Results from PRP treatments can be hugely successful, and more and more clinical trials have been completed to advocate the use of PRP. No longer is it considered to be an emerging treatment and is very much mainstream.

A Platelet Rich Plasma treatment can be used in conjunction with any other hair loss treatment, including hair transplantation. If you aren't sure if PRP is the right option for you, then please consult with your doctor or trichologist.