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Short answer: the results can be maintained. Long answer: Platelet-rich plasma has been utilized for years in wound healing and orthopedic conditions, but more recently it has gained traction in aesthetic medicine, especially with respect to hair loss. Several clinicians have had some success in treating alopecia of various etiologies (lichen planopilaris, alopecia areata, etc), but most of the limited data have been focused on PRP use for male- and female-pattern hair loss.The mechanism of action involves platelets’ ability to aggregate together, activate, and release alpha-granules containing various growth factors, such as platelet derived growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Their release increases angiogenesis and vascularization, providing resting telogen hairs the signal that they need to enter the anagen phase. This increased vascularization and mix of growth factors also fosters the proliferation of dermal papilla cells and inhibits apoptosis, helping to prolong the anagen phase.More specific to androgenetic alopecia, PRP may help to counteract certain effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In a mouse model of androgenetic alopecia, DHT was shown to block IGF-1 contributing to hair loss and PRP is a known source of IGF-1.Platelet-rich plasma is fully autologous and thus provides patients a more “natural” treatment, with side effects limited to procedural discomfort and bruising.There is no standard system, quantity, or interval of treatment regarding PRP for hair loss, which is why we currently utilize a proprietary hyperconcentrated platelet rich plasma concentration and treat patients monthly 4 times, then reevaluate after 8 to 12 months. If a patient has a response, then retreatment at follow-up may result in continued efficacy if performed at a 6- to 12-month basis.
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is not a cure but it is a great option to slow down hair loss. Generally, we start with 3-4 sessions over 3-4 months. By this time, you will start to see some improvement in your hair density and thickness. Afterwards, keep up the PRP injections every 4-6 months depending on how quickly you're losing your hair. How long PRP lasts really depends on where you are in your hair loss cycle. No treatment cures hair loss. PRP will slow it down but eventually you will still lose your hair, just hopefully years later than expected. If you are younger, each PRP session will work longer for you, in general.
While there is no exact answer as to how long PRP will continue to work, in my opinion it lasts for about 6 months. For this reason I have most of may patients on a PRP maintains schedule of 2-3 times per year. Best wishes!
PRP can work well for many patients, and I typically prescribe a regimen of 3 initial treatment session spaced one month apart followed by maintenance injections every 6 to 12 months. This seems to work well for most of my patients.I always recommend discussing your concerns with a fellowship-trained hair restoration surgeon.All the best,
A series of 3 PRP treatments are recommended and can be combined with low level light therapy (Theradome). After the initial series, maintenance will be required. Most patients will do a quarterly or bi annual program.
PRP stimulates hair growth but the results take time. You should not expect visible hair growth results before you have completed a cycle of 3-4 treatments at monthly intervals. You will see significant growth beginning at 6 months and continuing thereafter for up to a year. Patients should seriously consider repeat treatments at 9 months-1 year intervals after their initial treatment cycle to maintain their hair regrowth.
Everyone is different. On average most patientst will need to have treatments every 6 months. Some recommend adding ACell to the PRP mixture to prolong the duration of effect up to one year. I don't routinely recommend this combination treatment because there is no scientific evidence supporting this and the ACell is very expensive- with the added cost outweighing the potential benefit of inceaseing duration of effect. I recommend performing the "Pull Test". A succesfull PRP treatment series should result in a signficant drop in hairs that fall out when you gently pull on your hair. If you see that you have more hairs falling out again, then its time to come back in for your PRP treatment.
It's a good question and the truth is we just don't know. PRP hasn't been extensively studied so what we are left with is a few small studies and lots of anecdotal evidence. While ACell has been a topic with PRP there is no real good scientific data that it helps. But it most likely doesn't hurt (except in the wallet). PRP (with or without ACell) is a good option for people thinning in their 20s. We perform 3 sessions 2 months apart and see improvements in density most of the time. It is best combined with Rogaine. Results can last over a year.
PRP results do not last indefinitely. Each patient may react or respond differently. See a doctor for a proper exam and treatment options.
We've had great success with combining microneedling and PRP for hair loss. Platelet rich plasma, is a treatment that involves taking a small quantity of one's own blood, and processing it to obtain platelet rich plasma. This is then injected into the scalp in the areas of thinning. Its a simple in-office procedure with promising results.
