Thinning hair and hair loss can be a significant source of concern for people, yet it is a very common problem which can be age or stress related, or as a result of male pattern baldness.
Various hair loss treatments exist but some are more science-based than others – the category into which Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP falls.
Used in aesthetics since the 2000, PRP therapy for skin rejuvenation involves transplanting centrifuged cells (centrifuging is a process which separates the blood into three layers from which one of the layers – the platelet rich plasma – can be taken) from a person’s own body and injecting them into the dermis of the skin.
The PRP is then injected into targeted areas of the face or body to help to rejuvenate them as the concentration of particular proteins that help healing and encourage cell growth is increased.
So, PRP for hair loss or post hair transplant involves injecting the platelet rich plasma cells into parts of the scalp that are being targeted for an increase in hair growth.
The theory behind the process is that the injections of platelet rich plasma firstly generate hair growth then help maintain it by enhancing the blood supply to the hair shaft and boosting the hair shaft thickness.
PRP hair treatment has been shown to reduce hair loss conveniently and easily, besides helping with the success of recent hair transplants.
Each course of treatment usually starts with two sessions of about 30 minutes each taken 2 months apart, and the effects can generally be seen after a few weeks. After results have been achieved, less frequent but regular maintenance sessions can help nurture the new hair growth.
Though it’s a natural, non-invasive procedure, after a PRP therapy session, it’s best avoid alcohol and any strenuous activity for 24-48 hours, but people can usually go straight back to their normal routine.
A fully qualified aesthetic practitioner should carry out a consultation with clients to make sure they are suitable for PRP, and decide on a customised course of treatment for individuals, always putting their need and safety first.