Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is one of the most revolutionary and popular treatments for hair restoration. What makes PRP stand out is that it uses the body’s own natural healing powers to stimulate hair regrowth. The therapy involves using platelets from your own blood, which are rich in growth factors that promote cell regeneration, repair damaged tissues, and encourage the growth of new hair.
How Does PRP Work?
PRP therapy is a multi-step procedure:
- Blood Collection: The process begins with a simple blood draw, similar to donating blood. Typically, 10 to 20 milliliters of blood are drawn from your arm.
- Centrifugation: The blood is then placed in a machine called a centrifuge, which spins it at a high speed to separate the platelets from the red blood cells and plasma.
- Injection into the Scalp: The concentrated platelet-rich plasma, which is rich in growth factors, is then injected directly into the scalp in the areas where hair thinning or hair loss is most prominent. These growth factors stimulate the hair follicles, encouraging them to transition from the dormant telogen phase to the active anagen phase, which is when new hair growth occurs.
The Benefits of PRP for Hair Restoration:
- Natural and Safe: PRP therapy uses your own blood, so there’s little to no risk of allergic reactions or side effects. It’s a natural and safe option for people looking to restore hair without relying on synthetic chemicals or medications.
- Effective for Various Types of Hair Loss: PRP is particularly effective for treating androgenetic alopecia (genetic pattern baldness) and telogen effluvium (temporary hair loss from stress, illness, or hormonal changes). It’s also useful for men and women who are experiencing early stages of hair thinning.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike hair transplants, which require surgery, PRP is a minimally invasive procedure. It involves just a few injections into the scalp, with little downtime or discomfort.
- Quick Procedure: The entire process typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, making it convenient for people with busy schedules. Patients can return to their regular activities immediately following the treatment.
What to Expect from PRP Treatment:
- Results Timeline: While some patients notice improvements after just one session, full results usually appear after 3–6 months, as hair growth progresses gradually. It’s recommended to undergo PRP treatments every 4–6 weeks for the first three to four sessions, followed by maintenance sessions every 4–6 months.
- Maintenance: To sustain hair regrowth, ongoing treatments are often necessary. Many patients continue PRP therapy as part of their long-term hair care regimen.
