What Does Plasma Have to Do with Hair Loss?

The answer is that PRP uses your own plasma to stimulate hair growth. It’s a relatively new procedure, though PRP has been used since the 1980s for other purposes. Doctors have had success promoting healing in injured tendons, ligaments, and muscles using platelet rich plasma injections. While there’s not enough research to determine whether PRP is effective for the treatment of hair loss, many medical practitioners believe that it works by stimulating the derma papilla cells, increasing blood supply to the follicles, and increasing the hair shafts’ thickness. Often, PRP is used in conjunction with other hair loss treatments.

So, how does the procedure work? The patient’s own blood is drawn from the arm and put into a machine called a centrifuge. The centrifuge then spins the blood tube to separate the different parts of the blood. Red blood cells are separated from the plasma, the liquid part of the blood. In the process, the plasma ends up with more platelets than it would normally contain. That platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the patient’s scalp. There’s virtually no risk involved in this procedure, and very little pain. There may be some bruising, but that typically resolves within a week or two.

Now, for the big question: how effective is platelet-rich plasma treatment in treating hair loss? Can be extremely effective, especially for those with thinning hair or male pattern baldness. One remarkable thing about PRP therapy is that it not only stimulates the growth of new hair, but it also prevents hair loss, allowing the patient to keep the hair he or she already has. It doesn’t work for everyone, though. Especially if the hair loss is old, it may not be as effective as it otherwise would be. For those receiving the treatment, it’s recommended that treatment be done once a month for three months, then an additional treatment six months later. For best results in the long-term, follow-up treatments are done every six to twelve months.

If you’re interested in determining whether PRP is right for you, contact Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology for a consultation. We’re committed to providing superior, professional skin care in a manner that’s practical, efficient, and compassionate. With over 30 years of experience providing dermatological services in Salt Lake City, we provide a variety of services, from cosmetic skincare to treatment for skin cancer. Our team of board- certified dermatologists and licensed cosmetic service providers are here to provide you the care you need in a comfortable, professional atmosphere. Call (801) 682-4715 or contact us through our website.