Can PRP and Kenalog be used together for alopecia areata?

Question

2 weeks ago I started PRP for Alopecia Areata. I noticed a new spot of AA on my head. Would it be possible to get Kenalog injections too as they worked in the past for me?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

This is best answered with an in-person evaluation. I suggest a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist with experience in hair restoration and maintenance. Some great options for hair restoration and maintenance are prp injections which can stimulate hair growth. Hope this helps.

Joseph MacDonald, MD · Answer

This question has a very nuanced answer and is best discussed during an in person consultation with a qualified hair restoration physician. Certainly Kenalog is the gold standard for alopecia areata. PRP is a fairly new therapy and has very limited evidence for its use in AA. If your AA was over a very large area or resistant to Kenalog then adding PRP could be an option albeit not first line. In combination some argue that they actually counteract each-other, however since we aren't even sure of the exact mechanism of action with PRP, we can't know for sure until more studies come out.

Karl Hekimian, MD · Answer

Steroids such as Kenalog are the treatment of choice for alopecia areata.  Use of PRP is considered "off-label", and other than some anecdotal reports there are no sizeable studies to suggest it can help.

Steven Gabel, MD, FACS · Answer

PRP is not one of the main treatments for AA. You need to first establish a diagnosis with a health care professional who specializes in hair loss disorders. There are various medications for AA including steroids and oral medications. PRP has been studied for scarring and nonscarring alopecia and shown some promising results, but I recommend starting with proven regimens first.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

No, they can't be used together. Kenalog is generally far more effective. It's also more reliable, it's less expensive and it's been around far longer. PRP is not first line for localized alopecia areata.

Can PRP and Kenalog be used together for alopecia areata?

Answers (5)

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