Hair loss affects its victims in multiple ways. Not only can the physical appearance of less hair on the scalp be an unwelcome change that’s hard to deal with, but the emotional toll thinning hair and hair loss can cause is insurmountable. In addition, many who suffer from thinning hair and hair loss feel they lose a sense of identity with decreased self-confidence without their thick, long hair. But you can get back what you’ve lost. One of the most effective options for restoring thinning and lost hair is PRP Injections (platelet-rich plasma injections). The treatment first became popular for helping heal wounds and joints and has now found an aesthetic application. PRP hair injections, which provide dramatic results over time, are now considered a go-to for hair restoration simply because it works. Here’s everything you need to know about how PRP injections work for hair restoration on the scalp.
Does platelet-rich plasma really work for hair loss?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is one of the most well-known treatments for combating thinning hair and hair loss. The treatment uses PRP extracted from your blood, which contains plasma and red blood cells. Within the plasma are various elements that contribute to wound healing and healthy circulation, including platelets, which are known to be an excellent source of growth factors that help communicate specific cells, namely skin cells, to function correctly. The growth factors, a mix of cytokines and proteins, ‘communicate’ with the hair follicles and help stimulate new, healthy hair growth.
The idea behind PRP for hair growth is that injecting platelets into the bottom portion of the hair follicle stimulates the action of a specific type of cell (dermal papilla cells) necessary for healthy hair growth.
Besides helping to jumpstart the natural hair growth process, PRP has a long-standing track record in medicine, skin health, and arthritis management.
How does platelet-rich plasma (PRP) hair restoration grow new hair?
The process involved with PRP for hair restoration is somewhat complex. First, it consists of a blood draw. Then, the blood is placed into a centrifuge to separate the red blood cells from the platelet-rich plasma and the platelet-poor plasma. Next, the PRP-rich serum of sorts is placed into a syringe and injected into the scalp directly at the level at which the hair follicles live.
Each step of the process must be performed meticulously so that every part of the scalp is treated to reap the benefits of platelet-rich plasma for hair loss. The entire procedure (multiple sessions are required to achieve optimal results) typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
How long does it take to see the results of a PRP hair treatment procedure?
Since the hair grows at different rates and is in any of the three growth phases at any given time (not all hair grows at the same rate, which is why they are never in the same phase of the growth cycle at once), PRP hair injections are necessary. However, you will see improvement over time, so patience is critical.
Consistency is also key, so be prepared for monthly treatments over three or four months, with follow-up maintenance treatments every three to six months after. Some patients notice the effects of PRP on the scalp faster than others and report changes in hair growth as early as the first two months. Usually, the initial effects of the treatment are seen by the third month. Along with new hair growth, it’s common to notice a decrease in hair shedding.
After an entire treatment, the blood supply to the hair follicles improves, which helps to thicken the hair and put it on the path to normal and continued hair growth. From there, your provider may recommend additional maintenance therapies or even specialty supplements to help maintain the results of your PRP treatment.
What do PRP injections for hair feel like?
Surprisingly, there’s little discomfort and no pain when injecting PRP into the scalp to combat the effects of hair loss. In some cases, topical numbing cream can be applied to the scalp before an injection treatment to make the process more comfortable, but most patients feel that they don’t need it. Some providers also use vibrational devices used during the injection portion of the procedure as a way to help mitigate any sensory pain overload.
The needle size used for PRP hair treatment procedures is relatively small. Fine needles also make the injections tolerable.
Where on the scalp do you inject PRP for hair restoration?
PRP hair injections are performed directly on the scalp, specifically in the subcutaneous layer, which houses the hair follicles. Smaller needles are typically used for the treatment, and they are placed a few millimeters under the scalp to deliver the PRP solution to where it’s most beneficial to the hair. However, superficial injections can render the procedure ineffective, so seeking treatment with a skilled provider is imperative.
Does PRP for hair work on all types of hair loss?
Hair loss is a multifactorial issue, and there are several causes of it. PRP for hair loss is shown to be most effective in telogen effluvium hair loss caused by stress. PRP is also helpful in some hormone-related causes of hair loss, non-scarring hair loss, and male pattern baldness. But concerning hormone-related balding, PRP is not a cure; to date, a cure does not exist.
Where can I get PRP hair treatment near me?
PRP hair treatments for hair loss are available at Charette Cosmetics. We pride ourselves on the latest innovations in hair restoration and have achieved excellent results with PRP hair treatment procedures. To determine if PRP hair injections are right for you, contact our office and schedule a consultation today!
