What Is PRP And Can It Help With Hair Loss?

If you suffer from hair loss, you're not alone. In fact, an estimated 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States suffer from hereditary hair loss. Thankfully, there are treatments available that can help. A promising treatment gaining popularity is PRP or platelet-rich plasma therapy. Here's what you need to know about this exciting treatment option and how it could help you achieve your hair restoration goals.

What Is PRP Therapy?

PRP therapy involves taking a small sample of your own blood and then processing it so that only the platelets remain. Platelets are the part of your blood that help your body heal and repair itself. The theory behind PRP therapy is that these platelets can be used in concentrated levels to heal various parts of the body. The Cleveland Clinic states that PRP therapy "improve[s] tissue function," accelerates healing, and is often used for osteoarthritis, tendonitis, orthopedic procedures, and wound care. 

How Does PRP Therapy Work With Hair Restoration?

During PRP therapy, platelets are injected into the areas of your scalp where you are experiencing hair loss. When injected into the scalp, the platelets release growth factors that work together to encourage the production of new collagen, strengthening the blood vessels that support the growing hair follicles. This process not only stimulates new hair growth but can also help to thicken existing hair.

What Are the Benefits of PRP Hair Restoration?

PRP hair restoration has many benefits, including:

• Promoting new hair growth
• Preventing further hair loss
• Providing a natural, minimally invasive treatment option

Additionally, you can expect your results from PRP therapy to be long-lasting, as the new hair growth you achieve is natural and will continue to grow. You will not need repeated treatments to maintain your results.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Because PRP therapy is a minimally invasive procedure, it has few side effects. In fact, experts at the Mayo Clinic state that "platelet-rich plasma is very safe because it is your own blood product." 

That said, some patients have reported minor common side effects, such as temporary swelling or bruising at the injection site. These side effects are mild, usually resolve on their own within a few days, and are not considered serious.

If you are considering PRP therapy as a treatment option for your hair loss, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure, as well as answer any questions you may have.

For more information on PRP hair restoration, contact a professional near you.