Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP), and Hair Restoration

Whole Blood
Whole blood contains four major components: plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Platelets
Platelets are a normal component of whole blood and a crucial part of our coagulation system. After a minor cutor injury platelets are the “first responders” to help stop bleeding. Platelets will become activated and stop minor bleeding within 1 to 9 minutes normally.

Aspirin permanently alters platelet function. After a single baby aspirin dose, every platelet in our body is irreversibly altered. Normal platelet function does not return for a week or longer when the affected platelets have been replaced; the bone marrow normally replaces our platelet supply every 7 to 10 days. This anticoagulation effect of aspirin reduces the risk of a heart attack, but increases the risk of bleeding.

In addition to initiating coagulation, platelets are an important reservoir of growth factors and therefore have a powerful role in many other processes such as healing of damaged tissues and promoting cellular growth.

Platelets contain a number of growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor (TGF), platelet-derived angiogenesis factor (PDAF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet factor interleukin (IL), and insulin-like growth factor.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is derived by centrifuging a tube of whole blood. This process spins down the red blood cells, to the bottom of the tube, and leaves the platelets suspended in the upper clear yellow plasma layer. The upper layer of platelet rich plasma is drawn up and utilized.

Since platelets contain numerous growth factors, PRP has been used to promote healing and tissue growth in several areas of medicine, such as wound healing, cosmetic surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, dentistry, orthopedics, dermatology, and hair restoration.

PRP scalp injections for the treatment of pattern hair loss
There are a number of articles that support the use of PRP injections for the treatment of pattern hair loss. Subsequently, PRP injections into areas of thinning hair is now commonly employed by many clinicians. PRP is also used by some surgeons to enhance healing and graft growth during hair restoration surgery.

Disclaimer
Please consult with your physician before considering any of the drugs or treatments discussed on this website