What exactly is PRP therapy?
A PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment to treat losing hair is a three-step procedure in which a person’s blood is collected through a process, then infused in the hair.
A few in the medical field believe that PRP injections stimulate natural hair growth and sustain it by boosting blood flow to hair follicles as well as increasing the size of hair shaft. Sometimes, this technique is coupled with other treatments for hair loss, or treatments.
There isn’t enough evidence to determine if PRP can be an effective treatment for hair loss. But the therapy of PRP has been used since the early 1980s. It’s used to treat problems like treating injured muscles, tendon ligaments, ligaments, as well as muscles.
PRP therapy procedure
Therapy with PRP is 3-step procedure. Most PRP therapies require three treatments every 4-6 weeks.
Maintenance treatments are recommended every 4-6 months.
Step 1
Your blood is drawn usually from your arm and placed in centrifuge (a machine that spins at a rapid rate to separate fluids of various densities).
Step 2
After approximately 10-minutes in the centrifuge your blood will be separated into three layers:
- platelet-poor plasma
- platelet-rich plasma
- Red blood cells
Step 3
The plasma-rich platelets are drawn into a syringe, and injected into the areas of the scalp that require an increase in hair growth.
There’s been no enough research to establish whether PRP is efficient. It’s also not clear for whom — and in what conditions, it’s most effective.
According to a recent study published by the Trusted source, “Although PRP has adequate scientific foundations to justify its use for hair restoration, the process of restoring hair by using PRP is at its beginnings. The clinical evidence is not yet strong.”
PRP to treat hair loss and side adverse effects
Since PRP therapy is the process of injecting your own blood to your scalp, there is no the risk of contracting a disease.
However, any treatment that relies on injections has the risk of adverse effects like:
- damage in blood vessels or nerves
- Infection
- Calcification on the injector points
- scar tissue
There is also the possibility that you’ll have negative reactions in response to anesthetic employed in the treatment. If you choose to try PRP therapy to treat hair loss, be sure to let your physician know ahead of time about the degree of tolerance you have to anesthetics.
The risks of PRP to treat hair loss
Make sure you report any medication you’re taking prior the procedure, including herbs and supplements.
If you attend your first consultation Numerous providers will advise against using PRP to treat hair loss if:
- are taking bleeding thinners
- You are smokers who are smokers who are heavy ones.
- are a victim of drinking or use of drugs
It is also possible to be denied treatment when you’ve been diagnosed:
- chronic or acute or chronic
- cancer
- chronic liver diseases
- Chronic dermatologic disease
- hemodynamic instability
- hypofibrinogenemia
- metabolism disorder
- platelet dysfunction syndromes
- Systemic disorder
- sepsis
- low platelet count
- thyroid illness
How much will PRP for hair loss costs?
PRP therapy is typically comprised of three sessions over the span of 4-6 weeks, with maintenance treatments occurring every 4-6 months.
The typical price ranges from $1,500 to $3500 for the first three treatments. One injection costing more than $400. Prices vary based on a variety of elements, such as:
- Your geographical area
- Equipment quality
- the addition of nutritive ingredients
A lot of insurance companies have PRP as a hair loss treatment as cosmetic, and do not pay for any part of the procedure. Consult your insurance provider to determine if PRP treatment is covered by your insurance.
Takeaway
If you’re worried about loss of hair you’re faced with a range of options that include medications such as Rogaine and Propecia and hair transplant procedure. Another option could be PRP therapy.
While there isn’t a lot of evidence that PRP therapy for hair loss is effective There are many who consider PRP to be a secure and effective way to reverse hair loss and promoting new hair growth.
Discuss with your doctor to determine the best treatment or combination treatments is the most appropriate for you.
Can Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Treat Hair Loss?
The loss of hair as well as thin hair are common issues for all ages. The majority of 50 million males along with 30 million ladies have lost some of their hair. It’s more common after the age of 50 or due to tension.
There are hundreds of hair loss treatment options with different levels of effectiveness and reliability. Some are based on more reliable science than other treatments.
One of the therapies can be blood clotting therapy known as (PRP). PRP is a compound that is derived from blood and then injected into your scalp. It is able to be claimed to help heal body tissues, including the follicles where your hair grows.
The PRP extracts from blood by a centrifuge-like process that allows you to separate the PRP from your blood and increase the amount of certain proteins that aid in healing.
This makes PRP potentially usable on its own for the treatment of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis.
Studies suggest PRP injections may help in the treatment of androgenic Alopecia (male pattern hair loss).).
Let’s find out what the research suggests about the effectiveness of PRP treatments to treat hair loss and whether it has any negative side effects, as well as what kind of results you can anticipate.
Does PRP help with losing hair?
The simple answer to this is that science isn’t completely conclusive about whether PRP will help you regenerate your hair or maintain the hair you already have.
Here’s a summary of promising findings from studies regarding Hair loss and PRP
- A study published in 2014 of 11 individuals suffering from androgenic alopecia showed that injecting 2-3 cubic centimeters (cm) of PRP into the scalp every two weeks for 3 months could boost the number of hair Follicles to 71-93 units. This is a small study to prove conclusive, however it does suggest that PRP could help to increase the amount of hair follicles which can actively aid in the maintenance of healthy hair.
- A study conducted in 2015 by the of 10 patients who received PRP treatments every two to three weeks over three months, showed improvement in the amount of hair as well as the thickness of the hairs, and in the strength of the hair’s roots. This study adds confirmation of the findings of previous studies on hair loss and PRP. However, 10 individuals is not enough of a sample to prove conclusive.
- An research study from the year 2019 conducted in 2019 compared two groups of patients who used different hair treatments over six months. A group of 20 people utilized minoxidil (Rogaine), and the second group of 20 people used PRP injections. Thirty patients completed the study, and the results revealed that PRP was much more effective in preventing losing hair than Rogaine. The study also showed that the amount of platelets you have could affect the way your own plasma functions to treat loss of hair. A lower concentration of blood platelets could mean that PRP isn’t as effective you.
In addition to treating male pattern baldness there’s not a lot of studies on the use of PRP for the growth of hair, so it’s 100% conclusive.
Why all the fuss? The theory is that PRP contains proteins that have a number of roles that could assist in the process of regrowing hair.
- aiding you to get your blood to clot.
- Positive cell growth
There’s also some promising research which suggests that PRP might be effective to treat other forms of loss in hair.
Is PRP hair treatment a permanent solution?
The first treatment will take a few times for the initial results.
After the results begin to show, you’ll have to do touch-ups every year, at least to ensure that new hair growth continues.
Potential PRP hair treatment side effects
PRP can cause some adverse effects from injections as well as during the procedure, which include:
- bleeding blood vessels to the scalp
- nerve injury
- Infection in the site of injection
- the process of calcification of scar tissue that is formed when the injections are administered
- adverse effects of anesthesia in the process, like the occurrence of muscle pain, confusion problems with bladder control
PRP injections to treat hair loss: before and after
Remember that results may look different for each person based on their general health and blood platelet levels and the health of hair.
Below is an illustration of someone who experienced positive results with PRP injections for hair loss.
Takeaway
The use of PRP to treat hair loss has promising research to back it.
However, the majority of research has been conducted using small studies with 40 or less or less. Therefore, it’s difficult to determine the results of these studies for all.
The blood you have may not be a sufficient source of platelets to be efficient for restoring hair’s appearance with the injection therapy of PRP.
Consult a physician about testing your blood for platelets as well as examine your hair’s health to determine if it’s an ideal candidate with PRP treatment.
Can Scalp Micro-needling Regrow Your Hair?
Micro-needling to treat hair loss
Micro-needling gained acclaim as a treatment for scars in the 1990s. Since then, it’s been investigated as an alternative treatment or as an adjunctive treatment to androgenic alopecia and alopecia.
Apart from the production of collagen within the skin, thought to be one of the main reasons it could be beneficial for acne scars, there is a belief that micro-needling may aid in stimulating the growth of stem cells in hair follicles which can cause hair growth.
Micro-needling can also aid in the absorption of the products you use to treat loss of hair, like:
- minoxidil (Rogaine)
- Topical steroids applied to the skin
- platelet rich plasma
One study conducted by Trusted Source particularly examined the possible benefits of micro-needling utilized in conjunction with a topical corticosteroid for treating alopecia areata.
How does it work
When you undergo micro-needling, your healthcare professional utilizes a roller that has needles on it.
The size of needles could range from less than one millimeter up to several millimeters. They’re all contained within an instrument that is handheld. Also known as a roller, the device is rolled across the area of treatment, causing minor bruises.
There is speculation that micro-needling could trigger the release of certain factors that encourage hair growth. Or possibly directly promote hair growth because of the minor injury caused.
Your doctor may apply a topical anesthetic on your scalp for about 45 minutes before treatment. This will help to ease any discomfort you experience.
The exact time of the procedure can differ based on the size of the area to be treated however, it usually will take about 10 to 15 minutes. When the scalp micro-needling has been completed, your physician might apply a topical balm to the area, or give an injection, based on the objective of the micro-needling treatment is.
Micro-needling side effects in the forehead
The micro-needling process itself can cause:
- bruising
- Oozing out of the wounds
- redness
- swelling
- Pain
There’s also a chance for wounds caused needles can be scarred.
The area might be red and itchy for a few days after the procedure. Based on the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), most adverse effects subside within five days following your procedure.
Consult your physician prior to considering this treatment if you
- Have a history of having acne or have a history of eczema or acne
- suffer from a condition that slows healing, like diabetes
- Are on blood thinners or other medicines
It’s also not suggested for women who are pregnant.
Utilizing minoxidil right after micro-needling could increase the absorption of the drug and result in more burning, itching and irritation of the scalp. It’s essential to speak with your physician about the best time to restart your topical minoxidil treatment.
Your scalp might have a greater sensitivity to sunlight following treatment. It is highly recommended. A hat is also a great way to keep your scalp protected when you are outdoors.
Another concern with micro-needling your scalp is the chance of getting an infection. Although the needles aren’t as large but they’re still causing wounds.
You’ll have to follow your aftercare guidelines carefully to avoid infections. The following care typically includes keeping your area clean for a couple of days in addition to applying a prescription oral or topical antibiotic to fight off the bacteria.
There is a chance that you are more at risk of infection if you suffer from other serious health conditions, or if you’ve had a history of frequent infections.
Dermaroller at-home treatment
To reduce costs and time commitments, some decide to buy Derma-rollers to perform micro-needling at home.
According to one company Dermapen, treatments at home can be as low as one third of the expenses for getting micro-needling treatments by a trained professional.
There are some serious disadvantages of using derma-rollers at home, but. This includes:
- Not knowing the correct size needles to make use of
- not seeing certain parts of your scalp, for instance, the top of your head
- not being able to focus on the areas you want to target as being a professional
- not being able to operate the roller correctly
- Not being able to tell the right time to stop
- Not knowing the right amount of pressure to apply and how to roll the roller properly
- not having adjuvant treatments available to providers to achieve positive results, for example, platelet-rich plasma
This can result in the treatment less effective as compared to an expert.
A certified micro-needling specialist can also assist you in minimizing the negative consequences of treatment. It isn’t easy to evaluate risks and treat any problems by yourself. It is possible to see any healthcare professional should you experience any adverse negative effects.
Although it’s tempting to purchase your own dermaroller at a store, it’s more secure to leave these devices with an experienced and licensed expert to help you with your hair loss treatment. Dermatologists advise against doing micro-needling at home, or working by providers who aren’t educated.
Cost of Micro-needling to treat loss of hair
The cost of micro-needling out-of-pocket can be as low as $200-$700 per session. The larger the area of treatment is, the more costly each session will cost.
The procedure is generally not covered by medical insurance as it’s considered cosmetic treatments. However, it is possible that your insurance will pay for a portion of the cost in the event that you’re getting the procedure for medical reasons.
The choice of the right practitioner
The micro-needling procedure is done by licensed professionals who are specialized in skincare. This could include dermatologists as well as cosmetic surgeons.
Micro-needling isn’t a surgery therefore there aren’t any risks associated with it. However, it is advised to find an experienced and skilled expert to avoid any potential issues, like scarring.
Once you’ve identified a handful of prospective providers, you can request to meet with each. It will give you an idea of their expertise, and also the estimated costs for treatment.
A reputable provider of micro-needling will provide you with the results that showcases their expertise.
Takeaway
Micro-needling could be a promising method to treat hair loss, especially for androgenic alopecia. It can complement existing treatments for those with the funds to afford it.
Consult your physician about the options for growing hair.
PRP for Hair Loss
What exactly is PRP therapy?
The PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment in the treatment of the loss of hair is a 3-step medical procedure in which a person’s blood is taken through a process, then injecting in the hair.
A few in the medical field believe that PRP injections cause natural hair growth and sustain it by boosting blood flow for the hair follicle, and increasing the size of hair shaft. In some cases, this method is used in conjunction with other treatments for hair loss, or treatments.
There hasn’t been enough studies to determine if PRP can be an effective treatment for hair loss. But it has been used from the early 1980s. It’s used to treat problems like treating injured tendon ligaments, ligaments, as well as muscles.
PRP therapy procedure
Therapy with PRP is 3-step procedure. The majority of PRP therapies require three treatments every 4-6 weeks.
Maintenance treatments are recommended every 4 to 6 months.
Step 1
Your blood is taken -typically from your arm and placed in centrifuge (a machine that spins quickly to separate fluids with different densities).
Step 2
After 10-minutes in the centrifuge your blood will be separated into three layers:
- platelet-poor plasma
- platelet-rich plasma
- Red blood cells
Step 3
The plasma rich in platelets is drawn into a syringe, and it is injected into the areas of the scalp that require more hair growth.
There’s been no enough research to establish whether PRP works. It’s also not clear for whom — and in what conditions, it’s most effective.
According to the findings of a recent study by Trusted source, “Although PRP has adequate scientific foundations to warrant its use for hair restoration, the process of restoring hair with PRP is in its beginnings. The clinical evidence is not yet strong.”
PRP to treat hair loss and side adverse effects
Since PRP therapy is the process of injecting your own blood to your scalp, there is no the risk of contracting a disease.
But, any therapy that requires injections is always an inherent risk of side negative effects, including:
- damage of blood vessels or nerves
- Infection
- Calcification on the injector points
- scar tissue
There’s also a chance that you’ll experience an adverse response to the anesthetic employed in the treatment. If you decide to go through with PRP treatment for hair loss, be sure to let your doctor know prior to treatment about the degree of tolerance to anesthetics.
The risks of PRP to treat hair loss
It is important to inform any medications you’re taking prior to the procedure begins, including supplements and herbal remedies.
If you visit for the first time Many doctors will advise against using PRP for hair loss in the following situations:
- are taking bleeding thinners
- Are smokers who are large smoker
- are a victim of drinking or use of drugs
It is also possible to be denied for treatment If you’ve been diagnosed with:
- chronic or acute or chronic
- cancer
- Chronic Liver Disease
- persistent dermatologic disease
- hemodynamic instability
- hypofibrinogenemia
- the metabolic disorder
- platelet dysfunction syndromes
- Systemic disorder
- sepsis
- low platelet count
- thyroid diseases
What is the cost of PRP treatment for hair loss cost?
PRP therapy usually consists of three sessions over an interval of 4-6 weeks with maintenance treatments occurring every 4-6 months.
The typical price range is $1,500-$3,500 in the first three treatments. One treatment costing $400 or more. Pricing is contingent on a range of elements, such as:
- Your geographical area
- Quality of equipment
- the addition of nutrients
A lot of insurance companies have PRP as a treatment of hair loss to be cosmetic, and do not pay for any part of the procedure. Contact your insurance company to determine if PRP treatment is covered by your insurance.
Takeaway
If you’re worried about loss of hair you’re faced with a range of options that include medications such as Rogaine and Propecia as well as hair transplant procedure. Another option to consider could be PRP therapy.
There isn’t much evidence that PRP to treat hair loss can be effective. There are many who think that it is a secure and effective way to reverse hair loss and promote new hair growth.
Discuss with your doctor to determine the best treatment or combination treatments is the most appropriate for you.
Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss: Myth or Miracle?
Androgenetic Alopecia: Male and female hair loss
The loss of hair in females and males is referred to as androgenetic hair loss, which is typical as we age. It’s caused by hormone testosterone, which is converted to a molecule called DHT. The changes cause hair follicles in the hair to shrink, which results in loss of hair. Men are more testosterone-driven than women, which is why the likelihood of balding is higher among males.
Men usually have an M-shaped pattern of hair loss, also called male pattern hair loss. The loss of hair is typically seen across the scalp for women and seldom leads to total hair loss. Since hair loss is frequent, it’s no wonder people seek out herbal solutions. Saw palmetto is among the most sought-after remedies used to stop hair loss, or to grow hair.
Hair loss, saw palmetto and loss
There are a variety of treatments available for losing hair. Recent years hair pieces and extensions have become popular. Oral and topical medication are another method that used to treat thin hair. The surgical procedures like hair plugs are also effective. However, medications can cause side consequences and surgeries are costly.
Saw palmetto is a natural treatment for hair loss. It’s a small-sized plant with berries, which has been used for centuries by Native Americans as medicine and food for many centuries. Evidence suggests that this herb could be used to treat prostate cancer. It has also been utilized to treat:
- hair loss
- urinary tract infections
- prostate cancer
- less the sex drive
The research on the effectiveness of saw palmetto to reduce hair loss is sporadic, however it is promising. The extracts of saw palmetto berries could stop 5-alpha-reductase, which is an enzyme used to convert testosterone into DHT. DHT is the main molecule responsible for hair loss, and plays a role in the growth of the prostate.
One study conducted by the Trusted Source found promising results in the ability of saw palmetto to treat prostate enlargement. Researchers hope that it will reduce or stop the loss of hair as well. Actually, the ingredients of saw palmetto which block the enzyme perform in the same way as the synthetic ingredients found in prescription medications that treat loss of hair.
However, research is not as extensive on the efficacy of saw palmetto in the treatment of hair loss. Yet the results of one study has shown positive results in men treated by topical saw palmetto and 10 percent trichogen-veg complex. Nearly half the participants had their hair count increased by 11.9 percent after 4 weeks of therapy.
The various varieties of Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto comes in several different forms, including:
- Whole dried whole dried
- tablets
- liquid extracts
- capsules with powdered ingredients
Capsules, tablets and tablet are most accessible in addition to being the one ones which have been investigated by researchers. Tea made from dried saw palmetto’s berries isn’t likely to work because the active components aren’t water-soluble.
Before you start any new supplements, it’s vital to speak with your doctor regarding doses that are safe. Experts suggest 160 milligrams every day, to treat an over-extended prostate.
Interactions and side effects
Saw palmetto is generally thought to be safe. However, it is not recommended for pregnant or young children and lactating women. Some rare side effects include stomachaches and headaches. Stomach irritation is prevented when taking the supplement along with meals.
Saw palmetto can reduce blood flow and cause excessive bleeding after surgery. Be sure to inform your doctor about all of the supplements you are taking prior to commencing any new treatment, and prior to surgery.
Interactions could be observed between saw palmetto and various other medications. As it’s been demonstrated to reduce blood flow saw palmetto shouldn’t be used in conjunction alongside other blood thinners. Particularly it should not be used together with prescription medications like warfarin.
Saw palmetto functions similarly to finasteride is a drug that can be used for treating the loss of hair and an enlarged prostate. Do not use them in conjunction, unless you are advised by your physician. Saw palmetto could affect efficiency of oral contraceptives due to the fact that it is a hormone-related irritant.
Outlook
Although there isn’t much research on it the saw palmetto plant was used in the past for a long time to treat many ailments such as hair loss. It functions similarly to a few medication to prevent hair loss. Like all supplements make sure you talk to your physician before taking any. Also, you should stop taking them if you observe any serious negative side effects.
Acupuncture to treat hair loss
Acupuncture can be described as an alternative treatment. It was first popularized over a thousand years ago in China, the practice has been utilized for long periods of time to treat a range of ailments and illnesses such as back pain, to headaches.
In traditional Acupuncture it is believed that your health is contingent on a healthy Qi that is an energy-giving force that circulates through your body. When your qi becomes blocked, you can be ill. Acupuncture is a way to restore flow of energy by eliminating those blocks. In an acupuncture session the practitioner will stimulate specific points in your body with tiny needles. These points correspond to issues you’d like to cure.
Acupuncture can be credited as a remedy for a variety of ailments — some are justified but not all. The research supports the claims of acupuncture advocates in certain areas of treatment, particularly alleviating lower back tension or neck pain.
Other areas of study, for instance, hair loss, research isn’t as conclusive. However, there is some evidence suggesting that acupuncture may be effective for at the very the very least one kind that suffers from hair loss.
Acupuncture for male pattern hair loss
Research has not supported the treatment with acupuncture for male pattern hair loss. Male pattern baldness is typically caused by genetic factors as well as hormonal fluctuations. Acupuncture is not likely to alter these conditions.
One study researchers did discover that acupuncture may be better than medication to treat a different kind of hair loss called Alopecia areata. Alopecia areata happens when the body’s defense system is attacked by the hair follicles. The follicles are attacked and cause hair loss, usually with small patches scattered across the scalp.
It’s not clear why acupuncture is effective in treating this problem. It could be because of the increase in blood flow and increased circulation to the skin, a frequent benefit of Acupuncture. This can help stimulate hair follicles and nerves and blood vessels, so that the hair loss stops. In the future, hair loss could begin once more, with further treatment.
Acupuncture to treat hair loss in females
Female hair loss in pattern is a typical type of loss of hair in women, can also be due to genetic causes and changes in hormones. This is why research doesn’t support the application of acupuncture to treat hair loss in women.
However, those suffering from alopecia can see improvement in the loss of hair and growth by using Acupuncture. The needles are tiny and can increase the stimulation of scalp hair and increase the likelihood of hair regrowth.
How does it work
In an acupuncture session an acupuncturist will insert tiny needles at specific points on your body. These points are aligned with conditions, symptoms or issues that you’re suffering from. If you’re looking to ease back pain, say there’s a chance that the practitioner will inject needles into your feet, arms or neck as well as elsewhere.
The needles are designed to stimulate the nerve-rich regions in your body. This includes your skin, tissues, as well as glands. They can also enhance blood circulation. To encourage hair growth, the needles could also stimulate hair follicles which may stimulate hair growth.
The side effects of acupuncture on the head
In general Acupuncture is generally accepted as an alternative therapy for healing. Certain people may be prone to allergic reactions to needles, or to any of the products that are employed during the acupuncture treatment. This can include lotions, oils and aromatherapy products.
Traditional treatments for hair loss include the use of hormones, prescriptive medication or laser therapy, and even surgery. As compared to the other options treatment options, acupuncture is free of risks of side effects, or even complications and could be a method in treating loss of hair with medications.
The side effects of acupuncture on the head could include:
- headache
- soreness
- bruising
- Muscle moving
- minor bleeding
The side effects of acupuncture can be more severe if you’re working with a certified professional. There is a the risk of injury or infection when the person giving the treatment is not qualified and licensed. If you choose to use an experienced and certified professional, you run only a few dangers.
Can acupuncture cause hair loss?
Research has not found any evidence to suggest that acupuncture causes hair loss. There aren’t any study of patients who have lost hair due to acupuncture that determine whether or not this is the case.
Selecting a doctor
If you’re thinking of working with an acupuncture professional for treating hair loss, or other conditions Keep these three tips in your head:
- Check the credentials. A professional and knowledgeable acupuncturist is likely to have a certificate and license through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). In the event that they’re licensed they’ll most likely employ the abbreviation LAc following their name.
- Learn about the requirements of your state. Training and education standards differ by state. Certain states are very strict with qualifications and requirements, while some aren’t. Be sure that your state is compliant with the most rigorous standards.
- Get personal recommendations. If you’re unsure which direction to take to find an acupuncturist, ask your friend to recommend. Certain doctors are even able to refer you to the acupuncturists. The health insurance will probably not provide this treatment. Contact your insurance provider before scheduling appointment to learn about the options available.
Takeaway
If you’re experiencing loss of hair and you’re experiencing hair loss, there’s a myriad of options for treating you based on the cause for the loss. There are a variety of options from traditional medications to alternative treatments that includes the use of acupuncture. While there is no evidence to suggest that acupuncture is beneficial in the treatment of the loss of hair in men, there’s some negative side effects that can be that are associated with this type of treatment.
If you are considering using an acupuncture treatment to stop loss of hair or to increase the growth of your hair, think about possible options in consultation with a medical professional and a certified acupuncturist. Many people find that acupuncture is a continuous, long-term treatment strategy. It isn’t advisable to expect immediate results. If you’re at ease with this method you might see some improvement in Alopecia areata.
Can Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Treat Hair Loss?
Loss of hair and thin hair are commonplace issues across all ages. Around 50 million males as well as 30 million females have lost some of their hair. It is most common after the age of 50 or due to tension.
There are a myriad of hair loss treatment options with different levels of efficacy and reliability. However, some of them are based on scientifically sound research than other treatments.
One of treatments that can be used includes the treatment known as platelet rich plasma (PRP). PRP is a compound that is that is derived from your blood that is injected into your scalp. It is able to claim to heal your body’s tissues, including the follicles which hair grows.
PRP can be extracted from blood by a centrifuge-like process which can remove PRP from blood, and boost the amount of specific proteins that help promote healing.
This makes PRP potentially usable on its own for the treatment of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis.
The research suggests that injections of PRP can to treat androgenic Alopecia (male pattern baldness).).
Let’s find out what the research suggests about the effectiveness of PRP treatments to treat hair loss as well as whether or not PRP causes any adverse effects, and what kind of results you can anticipate.
Does PRP aid in hair loss?
The short answer to this is that science isn’t 100 % conclusive as to whether PRP helps to grow your hair, or keep the hair you already have.
Here’s a summary of promising research findings regarding the PRP process and loss of hair
- A 2014 study conducted by Trusted The Source of 11 patients suffering from androgenic alopecia discovered that injecting 2-3 cubic centimeters (ccm) of PRP into the scalp each week for 3 months can boost the number of hair Follicles to 71-93 units. The research is too insignificant to be conclusive but it suggests that PRP might aid in increasing the amount of hair follicles that actively aid in the maintenance of healthy hair.
- A 2015 study conducted by Trusted by the source of 10 patients who received PRP treatments every two to three weeks over 3 months saw improvements in the amount of hair as well as the thickness of the hairs, as well as the strength of the hair’s roots. This study provides additional confirmation of the findings of the other hair loss and PRP research studies. However, 10 individuals is far too small of a sample to prove conclusive.
- An Study from 2019 conducted in 2019 compared two groups of individuals using various hair treatments for six months. A group of 20 people utilized minoxidil (Rogaine), and another 20 people used PRP injections. Thirty patients completed the study, and the results revealed that PRP did much better in treating the loss of hair than Rogaine. The study also showed that the level of platelets may affect how effectively your own plasma functions for loss of hair. A lower amount of blood platelets could mean that PRP won’t be as effective for you.
Apart from treating male pattern baldness there’s not much studies on the use of PRP for the growth of hair, so it’s not 100% conclusive.
Why all the fuss? It is believed that PRP has proteins that perform a variety of roles that could aid in the growth of hair:
- Helping you to get your blood to clot.
- Positive cell growthTrusted source
Some promising research is which suggests that PRP might be effective on other kinds of loss in hair.
Is PRP hair treatment a permanent solution?
The first treatment will take a few times for the initial results.
After the results begin to show, you’ll require a touch-up every year, at least to ensure that new hair growth continues.
Potential PRP hair treatment side effects
PRP may cause adverse effects that can result from injections as well as during the procedure, for example:
- bleeding blood vessels at the top of the head
- nerve injury
- an infection on the injector site
- Calcification and scar tissue at the site where the injections are made
- the side effects of anesthesia for the treatment, including the occurrence of muscle pain, confusion or issues with bladder control
PRP injections to treat hair loss: before and after
Remember that results may look different depending on your general health and blood platelet levels and the health of hair.
This is an instance of someone who has seen positive results from PRP injection treatments to treat hair loss.
Takeaway
The use of PRP for hair loss has promising research to back it.
However, the majority of research was conducted on small studies with 40 or less or less. It’s therefore difficult to tell whether these findings will be beneficial for all.
The blood you have may not contain enough levels of platelets to be efficient in restoring your hair with PRP injection therapy.
Consult a physician about having your blood tested for platelets, and also checking your hair’s health to determine if it’s an ideal candidate to receive PRP injectable therapy.
Laser Treatment for Hair Loss
Overview
Everyday, the majority of people shed about 100 hairs on their scalp. Although the majority of people lose hair, they to grow back, some do not due to:
- Age
- Heredity
- hormonal changes
- medical conditions, for example, the lupus as well as diabetes
- inadequate diet
- adverse effects of an medical treatment, for example, chemotherapy
- stress
Treatments for stopping hair loss and, if possible, reverse it are:
- drugs like minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia)
- hair transplant surgery
- laser therapy
Can laser treatments to treat hair loss work?
What is it that it does
Low-level laser therapy sometimes called red light therapy or cold laser therapy emits photons into the scalp’s tissues. The photons are absorbed into weak cells, which stimulate the growth of hair.
It is widely acknowledged this procedure to be secure as well as tolerable. It is also less radical in comparison to the surgery to transplant hair.
The concept
The theory behind laser treatments to treat hair loss is low-dose treatments boost circulation and stimulate hair follicles to develop.
The result
Since the results of laser therapy are not consistent The conclusion of the medical profession appears to be to work for certain people, but not some.
Further research is required however, certain studies have produced positive results
- According to an 2014 study conducted by Trusted Source Laser therapy at low levels proved to be secure and efficient for hair growth both males and females.
- A 2013 study by Trusted The Source of 41 males aged 18-48 found that hair laser treatments resulted in 39 percent more the growth of hair over a time that lasted 16 weeks.
What are the advantages of laser treatments for hair loss?
There are many arguments that supporters cite to promote participation in the process that include:
- It’s not invasive
- It’s not painful
- there are no adverse negative effects
- it improves hair strength
What are the downsides to laser treatments to reduce hair loss?
There are many reasons why people aren’t as enthusiastic regarding the procedure for example:
- It’s time-consuming. To see results the treatment usually requires many sessions per week over several months. Even though the number of sessions could decrease but most doctors suggest you keep undergoing treatments throughout your life.
- It’s costly. Clinical laser treatments to treat hair loss may cost you thousands of dollars per year.
- It might not be efficient. The procedure appears to be less effective for patients who are in stage of hair loss in comparison to those in the earlier stages.
- It is a potential interaction with certain medicines. Laser therapy should not be administered to patients who are taking medicines that cause photosensitization. The process of photosensitizing causes a chemical alteration to the skin that enhances the sensitivity of a person to light.
- Safety and efficacy over the long term haven’t been determined yet. Laser devices are classified as medical devices according to the FDA thus they do not receive the same scrutinization and testing as medicines undergo prior to approval. Long-term safety as well as long-term efficacy haven’t been determined yet.
The takeaway
If you’re looking to slow down and possibly reverse loss of hair, you could look into laser treatment as a possible alternative.
Like every procedure, there’s positives and negatives to be taken into consideration when deciding whether it’s the right choice for you. Your doctor can assist you make the right choice.
If you notice that your hair is falling out suddenly consult your physician. The rapid loss of hair could be a sign of an underlying issue that requires to be treated.