Hair Loss Treatment with platelet rich plasma (PRP)
Hair loss and hair thinning in an aesthetic problem that affects both males and females and has a major impact in patient’s psychology. Hair loss and hair thinning of the scalp is a very sensitive topic and patients often seek treatment.
The latest treatment in Dermatology for hair loss and hair thinning is called PRP or known as plasma treatment (PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma) and is an innovating method for quality hair restoration. PRP is used in both males and females for the last few years in large centres abroad with great success. PRP initially was used for wound healing by vascular surgeons, in bone fractures by orthopaedic surgeons and lately used in Dermatology as a treatment for hair loss in the scalp and is also used for facial rejuvenation in aged skin.
The mesotherapy with platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a treatment that uses the properties and benefits of the patient’s own blood instead of medications. Our own plasma contains growth factors which can promote hair growth by regenerating the hair bulb. Mesotherapy with PRP uses the properties of the growth factors of our own blood combined with enhancing factors making PRP an effective treatment for hair loss restoration and also as a maintenance treatment for hair transplanted patients.
How does PRP works for hair loss and hair thinning?
PRP targets hair regrowth by activating the hair bulb. This is achieved by activated platelets and growth factors that ‘feed’ the areas hairs has been lost and this activated cells are responsible for hair regrowth. Furthermore, PRP treatment reduces the aging process of the hair by improving the quality of the surrounding tissues, resulting to slowing the process of hair loss.
How is PRP performed?
Treatment is very simple. A small amount of blood in obtained from the patient, as a normal blood examination. The patient’s blood is then entered into a centrifuge so that only enriched cells or platelets remain.
Then, enriched cells or platelets are activated with calcium chloride so that growth factors are activated. The enriched cells with the activate growth factors are injected into the scalp or localized areas using a special micro needle.
I n which types of alopecia (hair loss) can PRP be used?
Studies have shown that PRP treatment is an effective treatment for androgenic type of alopecia (hair loss) which is the most common type/cause of hair loss in males and females. In Alopecia Areata and Scaring Alopecia PRP is considered a second line treatment.
How many sessions do I need to see results?
Different study groups uses different protocols, but is generally studies and personal experience of Dr Sakka have shown that in androgenic alopecia (hair loss) it requires 2-3 sessions with a 3-4 weeks interval followed by every 6 months maintenance treatment. In alopecia areata it requires at least 3 treatments with a one month interval whereas in scarring alopecia it requires 4 treatment sessions with an interval of 1-2 months.
Are there any side effects?
Treatment with PRP- platelet rich plasma- does not any side effect because is a purely nature treatment that uses the patient’s own blood and its properties. PRP does not contain any foreign to the body medication making it impossible for anyone to develop reactions to treatment or side effects. PRP in a very natural, innovative method of choice for quality hair restoration.
After hair restoration patients improve their confidence and the end result is a fuller, healthier looking head of hair.