PRP Therapy for Hair Loss

by Kate Dee, MD

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy is a proactive therapeutic non-surgical intervention for both women and men experiencing hair loss. PRP has been used with positive outcomesin medicine for 20 years in various applications including in plastic and cosmetic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine. My previous posts on PRP explain the science behind it (Part I) and the PRP Facelift procedure (Part II). Recent research (article 1 and article 2) has shown the application of a similar technique applied to the scalp has shown promising results in reversing hair loss.

The growth factors in PRP can cause growth of the hair follicles by stimulating the stem cells and other cells of the hair follicle. This promotes healing and regeneration and stimulates new cellular growth. The primary purpose of using PRP in hair restoration is to stimulate inactive or newly implanted hair follicles into an active growth phase.

Does it work? As of this posting the extensive clinical trials are not complete to establish the effectiveness of this treatment. Early results in the literature are promising, and there are numerous anecdotal and case reports reflecting positive success. Joseph Greco, PhD in Florida has been one of the first pioneers in the field and he reports an approximate 70% response rate. This blog post from the women's hair loss project documents a testimonial from one of his patients. The internet is filled with before and after pictures, but it is too early to determine what percentage of people this technique can help.

We recommend 3 to 6 treatments 6 weeks apart, then extend the time intervals for maintenance, if there is a good response. If you are interested, call or schedule a consultation-- they are always free.