Does PRP Work For Hair Loss?

Dr. Ankit Gupta takes us through the details of this hair loss remedy for androgenic alopecia.

The bald truth

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a controversial treatment for androgenic hair loss.

What it involves: blood is drawn and separated using a centrifuge. PRP—including growth proteins and hormones—is extracted from the blood; about 30 ml of blood is needed to produce 5 ml of PRP. This is then injected directly into the scalp. As this can be painful, local anaesthetic is sometimes used first. This usually involves monthly sessions for the first 3 months, then booster sessions every 3–6 months thereafter.

Does it work? Research is young; so far 60% of trials have found it worked; 40% found it didn’t. When it works, effectiveness (in terms of hair restoration) is considered to be between 25–43%. Results are inconsistent and seem to vary from person to person.

In short, this doctor’s recommendation is to consider it after already having tried standard treatments such as finasteride and/or minoxidil, as they are more likely to work and don’t involve such exciting procedures as injecting your own blood extracts back into your head.

For more on all of this, plus links to the 13 papers cited, enjoy:

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Want to learn more?

You might also like to read:

• Hair-Loss Remedies, By Science
• Hair Growth: Caffeine and Minoxidil Strategies
• Gentler Hair Health Options

Take care!