Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been gaining a lot of press lately because it is the basis of Kim K’s vampire facial, but what you may not know is that it is also a hot topic in hair growth. You’ve probably heard of it in the context of skin care, hair care and even beauty products, but you probably still don’t understand how it really works.
If you have tried or studied alternative treatments for hair loss, you may have learned a little more about the effects of Rich Plasma (PRP) on hair growth. Plasma is the liquid part of your blood that’s mostly made of water and protein and its purpose is to allow for red and white blood cells and platelets, move through your bloodstream. The platelet itself is what makes blood clot and helps with healing.
The use of PRP in the treatment of hair loss has the potential to change the way we treat hair loss worldwide, even for men and women who are not yet ready for hair transplants. It is a great option for people who can’t have a hair transplant due to illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. It is a natural way for the body to promote hair growth by using the patient’s own platelet rich plasma as a stimulant.
After separating the blood in a centrifuge, doctors inject the plasma with a small needle. In some cases, PRP are injected into the tear spots to correct pigment problems that present themselves as dark circles.
If you suffer from hair loss, talk to a specialist and find out if PRP hair restoration is a viable option for your needs. During your consultation you’ll discuss reasons you may be losing your hair and which treatments would best suit your type of hair loss. The experienced team at Dr. Stoller’s Clinic in New York City will show you a variety of treatments for hair recovery, so we can see if you are a candidate for PRP therapy. If PRP is an option, you can expect to have to give a blood sample prior to the treatment.
By using your own platelets, doctors can help you stimulate your hair by injecting platelet-rich plasma into your scalp. By increasing the blood supply to the hair follicles, PRP helps the hair follicle obtain more of the nutrients that pass through the bloodstream making them healthier. Not only can PRP help promote the regrowth of healthy hair, but it also has the potential to make your existing hair thicker.
As with many treatments, there is no guarantee that hair loss won’t return after the treatment, so it is recommended that patients schedule routine sessions for best results.