Understanding PRP Hair Treatment: A Complete Overview
Platelet-Rich Plasma is emerging as a powerful non-surgical option for hair restoration. Popular for its natural approach to healing and regeneration, PRP therapy uses the body’s own plasma to stimulate hair follicles, making it an appealing alternative to medications or invasive procedures. This article will explore hair PRP before and after experiences, including what patients can expect before and after treatment, how it works, and who might benefit from this therapy and PRP hair treatment success rate.
What is PRP Therapy for Hair Restoration?
PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and injecting the platelet-rich plasma directly into the scalp where hair thinning or loss is occurring. Platelets are rich in growth factors, which promote tissue repair, healing, and cell regeneration. In hair restoration, PRP targets hair follicles, nourishing them and potentially slowing or even reversing hair thinning and loss.
- How PRP works on hair follicles
The growth factors in PRP stimulate inactive or recently transplanted hair follicles, leading to increased blood supply and cellular activities around the follicles. Over time, this can lead to thicker hair shafts, increased hair density, and potentially even new hair growth in some cases. Patients often require a series of treatments, with results appearing gradually over the months following their first session.
- The science behind PRP
Studies suggest that PRP injections might extend the growth phase (anagen phase) of the hair cycle, resulting in longer and healthier hair. In several clinical trials, PRP therapy has been shown to improve hair density and thickness, with a focus on rejuvenating miniaturized follicles in the scalp. Although more research is still needed to fully understand the PRP’s effectiveness, initial findings are promising.
What To Expect Before PRP Hair Treatment
PRP hair restoration is a low-risk procedure, but patients should have realistic expectations. Here’s what typically happens before starting PRP:
- Consultation and Assessment
The first step is to consult with a qualified practitioner who will assess the patient’s hair loss pattern, medical history, and suitability for PRP. The practitioner may also take “before” photos to track progress.
- Pre-Treatment Instructions
Patients are usually advised to avoid certain medications, alcohol, and smoking before treatment, as these can impact the blood quality and the PRP’s effectiveness. Staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet can also contribute to better outcomes.
- Blood Draw
A small amount of blood, usually about the same amount taken during a routine blood test, is drawn from the patient’s arm. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma from other components.
During PRP Hair Treatment
The PRP procedure itself is relatively quick and minimally invasive:
- Preparation of scalp
A local anesthetic or numbering cream may be applied to reduce discomfort during the injection process.
- PRP Injections
The PRP is injected into the scalp areas where hair thinning is most prominent. The injections are spaced evenly to ensure coverage over the affected area.
- Duration
A typical PRP session lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, and most patients experience only mild discomfort, if any, during the procedure.
After PRP Treatment: The Results and Timeline
- Immediate Aftercare
Patients can usually resume their regular activities immediately after PRP, though they should avoid strenuous exercise and certain hair products for a day or two.
- Short-Term Effects
In the weeks following treatment, some patients may notice subtle improvements in hair texture, and volume, or a decrease in hair shedding. PRP’s regenerative effects take time, as the platelets begin to stimulate the hair follicles at a cellular level.
- Long-Term Results: A Journey of Gradual Improvement
- A) 1-3 Months – Initial signs of improvement might appear as reduced hair shedding and slightly thicker hair in the treated areas. However, noticeable growth may not yet be visible.
- B) 4-6 Months – This period often shows more evident results, such as thicker hair and improved density. For many patients, new hair growth may become noticeable during this stage.
- C) 9-12 Months – By this time, patients generally see the full effects of PRP treatment, including fuller, denser hair in the areas treated.
PRP Hair Treatment Success Rate
On an average, around 70-80% patients experience visible improvements in their hair thickness and density. While the success rates overall are higher in the case of individuals in the early stages of hair thinning and active follicles.
Hair PRP Before and After Results: What Patients Have Experienced
Real world examples can highlight PRP’s effectiveness. Many patients report seeing a clear difference in their hair’s thickness, density, and overall quality before and after PRP treatments. It’s important to remember that results can vary based on individual factors like age, extent of hair loss, and overall health.
Factors Affecting PRP Outcomes
- Patients Age and Genetics – Younger patients or those in the earlier stages of hair loss may experience more substantial results compared to those with advanced balding.
- Frequency of Treatment – Regular PRP sessions, especially in the initial months, can enhance results.
- Lifestyle Choices – A healthy lifestyle can support the regenerative effects of PRP, while smoking, excessive alcohol use, and poor diet may hinder the treatment’s benefits.
Side Effects and Considerations
PRP is considered safe and low risk since it uses the patient’s own blood, minimizing the chance of allergic reactions. However, some side effects may occur:
- Scalp Tenderness – Mild soreness or tenderness at the injection sites can be expected for a few days.
- Temporary Hair Shedding – Some patients experience temporary hair shedding as weaker hairs fall out to make way for stronger regrowth.
- Bruising and Swelling – Minor bruising or swelling may occur but typically resolves quickly.
Benefits of PRP for Hair Restoration
PRP therapy offers a range of unique benefits for individuals experiencing hair thinning or loss. One of the most appealing aspects of PRP therapy is that it uses the body’s natural healing abilities, making it a safe, minimally invasive treatment option with a low risk of allergic reactions or adverse side effects. Since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, There is little risk of rejection, which makes it a safe option compared to treatments involving foreign substances.
PRP hair treatment’s ability to target inactive or miniaturized hair follicles can potentially stimulate the growth phase of the hair cycle, promoting healthier hair over time. Unlike some topical treatments or medications that only address hair on the surface, PRP works directly within the scalp tissue, nourishing follicles at a cellular level and encouraging robust hair regrowth.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for PRP?
PRP therapy is most effective for individuals experiencing thinning hair rather than complete baldness. Ideal candidates include those with androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss) or other forms of hair thinning. However, PRP may not be as effective for patients with severe or advanced hair loss where follicles have been inactive for an extended period.
Is PRP Hair Restoration Right for You?
PRP therapy presents a promising and natural alternative for hair restoration, offering visible results over time without the need for surgery or medication. While it may not work for everyone, PRP has shown effectiveness for many in early-to-moderate stages of hair thinning. For those looking to stimulate natural hair growth and improve hair density, consulting a qualified practitioner about PRP therapy could be the first step toward a fuller, healthier head of hair. BellaPhi is one of the best cosmetic clinics in Sharjah, Dubai, a one stop solution to your cosmetic surgical needs.