What You Need To Know About PRP Treatments

PRP Hair Restoration, “Vampire Facials”, and PRP Rejuvenation are popular treatments for thinning hair and hair loss, fine lines, wrinkles and scarring, and targeted rejuvenation. But, how does it work, and more importantly, what is it?

What Is PRP?

PRP stands for platelet rich plasma, which a component of your blood containing growth factors that aid in the healing and regenerative process. When used for hair restoration, it nourishes the hair follicles to strengthen the existing hair and encourage new hair growth. When used for rejuvenation or in conjunction with microneedling, it stimulates your natural collagen production by delivering a concentrated dose of growth factors.

Because platelet rich plasma works by boosting your natural hair growth and collagen production, it needs time to work. Integrated Dermatology’s Victoria Hatfield, PA-C, explains: “It takes time for collagen remodeling after PRP injections, so I tell my patients they can expect to start seeing results within several months after their treatments.”

Patients should also expect to have a series of treatments to get optimal results.

How Long Have People Been Using This Treatment?

Platelet rich plasma treatments were created in the 1970s by hematologists to treat thrombocytopenia, a blood platelet disorder. They were able to isolate the platelets from whole blood and increase the concentration by using a high velocity centrifuge. In the 1980s and 90s, several different medical disciplines, such as maxillofacial surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and cardiac surgeons, began using this technique to improve wound healing, reduce inflammation, and reduce scarring.

Dermatologists began incorporating these treatments into their practice for acne scarring and fine line reduction. In addition, in 2006, a clinical study showed the efficacy of PRP treatments for alopecia, at specific concentrations. PRP treatment for hair loss has been very promising. “It is exciting to be able to offer an alternative treatment for hair loss,” says Dr. Agnes Chang, Medical Director for Integrated Dermatology in Washington DC. “Currently I prescribe Propecia and recommend Rogaine, but patients are eager to receive treatment that doesn’t require surgery or a pharmacological drug. Having said that, we need more data on the long-term use of PRP.”

For more information, see this article: https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/477353

Who Is a Good Candidate for PRP?

The short answer is it that depends. For hair restoration, there are many factors that play a role in hair loss and hair thinning. Our providers recommend consultation to review the medical history and perform an evaluation before scheduling treatment. A full work up for causes of hair loss is paramount before receiving PRP treatment.

This is also true for other conditions such as scars and wrinkles. Depending on the type of scar and the current state of skin, previous treatments, and other factors will determine how much improvement is expected from PRP treatment. Many times, multiple treatment modalities are necessary to address the color, texture, and appearance of the skin. This can range from topical treatments to laser treatments in addition to the microneedling or PRP injections.

Contact Integrated Dermatology today to schedule a consultation for PRP Hair Restoration or PRP microneedling with our board-certified dermatologists and providers.