PRP for Hair Loss
Regardless of age, natural hair loss is difficult to deal with. While some people have found success in exfoliation and moisturizing of the scalp, these processes may not be enough to stimulate hair growth. This is why treatments such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) were created. PRP has been used for years to help patients heal quicker and more completely after surgery. But PRP can also be used to stimulate hair growth. At Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, we offer PRP treatments for women and men who are looking to regain a healthy and beautiful head of hair.
Candidates
PRP is an effective treatment for women and men of any age. If you suffer from slight or moderate hair thinning or hair loss, or if you struggle with pattern baldness, then you may be a good candidate for PRP.
At your consultation, one of our trained and knowledgeable doctors at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center will evaluate your condition to determine if PRP injections are right for you. If you are on certain medications, such as blood thinners, have a low platelet count, or have any other blood-related issues, then PRP injections may not be the best treatment. Because of this, you may be asked to have a blood analysis performed before your treatment.
How PRP Works
PRP is a three-step process that can span over two months.
Here are the steps for one PRP session:
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1. Blood Drawing
During the first stage, the doctor will draw your blood, usually from the arm. Once drawn, the blood is placed inside a centrifuge.
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2. Plasma Preparation
The centrifuge machine will rapidly spin the blood, separating it into three different layers: red blood cells, platelet-poor plasma, and platelet-rich plasma. The doctor will collect the platelet-rich plasma in a syringe.
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3. Injection
At Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, we typically have patients complete a PRP session once a month or every four to six weeks for five to 10 sessions, and then we re-evaluate after that. For the treatment to be effective, you will need to have at least three treatment sessions; however, you will be advised about the specifics of your treatment during your appointment.
Recovery
After the PRP treatment session, all patients should rest for the day. Movement is encouraged on the second and third day, but it is important that you avoid touching the injected area. This means that you need to refrain from wearing hats or any other headwear. Also, you should not take hot baths, spend any time in a sauna, or apply ice to the area for the first three days after your treatment. This gives the body time for the blood to circulate throughout the area.
During the first three days after the treatment, it is common for patients to feel some mild to moderate discomfort or pain at the injection site. This is normal, as your skin is healing, and your scalp is adjusting to the injected plasma. Soreness and swelling in the area can last for up to four weeks, but this varies by patient. After the swelling dissipates, you may still feel some soreness for three to four additional weeks, and anti-inflammatory medications may be taken to relieve any discomfort. To promote healing, we recommend that you drink plenty of water and try not to touch your scalp very much.
Results
You will begin to see your results within two weeks after your treatment, as new hair will begin to sprout from the follicle. However, results can take six months to become final. At this point, you can look forward to healthier and fuller hair in the treatment area.
As PRP is not a permanent solution, patients may need to repeat this treatment once every 12 to 14 months. The procedure and the recovery time will be the same for each session. Eating a healthy diet with a focus on folate and iron, avoiding platelet-reducing beverages and food, and staying active can help to prolong your results.
