What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy?
PRP therapy is a treatment that involves taking blood from a patient and using it to create platelet-rich plasma. This concentration of a patient’s platelets is then injected into specific body areas to accelerate healing. PRP therapy has several uses in healthcare, dermatology and aesthetic medicine, the most common of which are:
• Musculoskeletal injuries
• Post-surgical healing
• Osteoarthritis
• Skin rejuvenation (i.e. the “Vampire facial”)
• Hair loss.
How Does It Work?
PRP therapy may sound complex, but the process is simpler than you might think. Here’s how it works:A medical professional draws a sample of blood from the patient’s arm. This is then placed into a centrifuge device, which rapidly spins the sample to separate it into three layers: platelet-poor plasma, platelet-rich plasma and red blood cells.
The centrifuge concentrates the platelets within the plasma, creating a platelet-rich plasma solution. Using needles, this is injected into the target area, with the aim being to increase the concentration of growth factors in this specific part of the body. Growth factors are proteins that help to accelerate the healing process. They can be used in various treatments to decrease pain, shorten healing time, stimulate collagen production or encourage hair growth.
Is PRP Effective for Hair Loss?
PRP therapy is a reliable hair loss treatment that can rejuvenate thinning hair for both men and women. This is because PRP contains proteins that help your blood clot and encourage cell growth, both of which are essential functions in hair regrowth. When administered by an expert clinician, PRP hair treatment can be used to prevent hair loss and promote the growth of new hair, transforming your look and giving you greater confidence.
Although PRP as a treatment for hair loss is fairly modern, multiple studies have shown encouraging results.
What Are the Benefits of PRP over Other Hair Loss Treatments?
One of the main benefits of platelet-rich plasma hair treatment is that the solution used is made up of your blood cells and plasma. Unlike with other treatments, this means there’s no risk of allergy or reaction. PRP also has the benefit of minimal side effects, which is a concern with other types of hair loss treatment for many people. Medication for male pattern baldness could increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. At the same time, for women, alternative treatments such as minoxidil can cause potential side effects such as facial hair growth and low blood pressure.
PRP hair treatment is a minimally invasive and low-risk treatment requiring no pharmaceutical products or downtime, making it the preferred choice for many people experiencing hair loss.
Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Hair Treatment a Permanent Solution?
Most patients will require a first round of treatments involving at least two to three sessions, usually four to six weeks apart. Results are typically visible within a few weeks and will appear as a natural yet noticeable change. Optimal collagen regeneration can take up to three months. Results vary between patients but can last for as long as 18 months, after which you’ll need a touch-up appointment to maintain new hair regrowth.
PRP for Hair Loss: Before and After
If you’re considering PRP hair treatment, you’re probably wondering what results may look like following the procedure. This before and after picture shows one of our male patients following treatment, who experienced a noticeable improvement in hair regrowth.
Would PRP Work for Me?
Anyone experiencing hair loss may find that PRP treatments are an effective solution for them, but patients with platelet disorders may be unsuitable for this type of treatment. You may also fail to qualify for PRP if you have a medical condition such as severe anaemia, an active scalp infection, liver dysfunction or uncontrolled diabetes.
How Much Does PRP Hair Treatment Cost?
Prices will vary depending on the qualifications and location of your chosen clinic, but it’s essential to do your research and seek out an experienced and certified practitioner. At Premier Laser & Skin Clinic & Derma Revive Skin Clinic, our expert clinicians are highly trained and have a wealth of experience in cosmetic procedures, so we’d be happy to answer any questions you might have and help you find the treatment option that’s right for you. Our PRP hair treatment starts at £199 for a single session and further discounts for packages.
If you want to tackle hair loss with PRP therapy, our qualified team of professionals would love to help. Book a consultation at our Central London clinic today.
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