Hair loss affects millions of people, and many of these individuals are seeking treatments that can help restore lost hair without medications or surgery. PRP hair treatments are an option that fits in this category, offering a natural approach to hair restoration. This treatment uses platelet-rich plasma to stimulate hair growth and improve hair thickness.
PRP has been used in different medical fields, from treating joint pain to facial rejuvenation. At San Diego Aesthetics and Medspa in La Mesa, CA, we can use this method for hair loss. As a woman-owned and operated medspa, we take a natural and minimalistic approach, always prioritizing patient care.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Hair loss can result from a variety of factors, including genetics, which often predispose individuals to thinning hair. Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving thyroid hormones or androgens, can disrupt normal hair growth. Stress and lifestyle factors, such as poor sleep and unhealthy habits, can also contribute. Nutritional deficiencies and certain medical conditions, like autoimmune disorders, can further exacerbate this issue and lead to the desire for a hair loss treatment.
An Overview of the Different Types of Hair Loss
- Androgenetic Alopecia: This is the most prevalent form of hair loss, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. It manifests as a slow thinning of hair, usually beginning at the temples and crown, and often becomes more noticeable with age.
- Alopecia Areata: This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. This results in patchy hair loss, often in round or oval areas on the scalp.
- Telogen Effluvium: This type of hair loss occurs when a significant number of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously. It is usually triggered by stress, illness, or major life changes, leading to widespread thinning.
- Traction Alopecia: This type is caused by prolonged tension on the hair, often due to tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails. This type of hair loss is preventable and reversible if caught early and hair is allowed to recover.
What Is PRP?
PRP hair treatments use platelet-rich plasma, a derivative of your own blood that is rich in growth factors, to stimulate hair growth. PRP therapy involves isolating the plasma and platelets through a special process and then injecting it into the scalp. This treatment is unique because it uses your body’s own substances rather than medications to rejuvenate hair follicles and encourage new growth.
How PRP Is Prepared
To prepare PRP for hair loss, a blood sample is taken from the patient and placed in a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins the blood quickly, which separates the platelet-rich plasma from other components like red blood cells. This concentrated plasma, now rich in growth factors, is then ready for injection into areas of the scalp experiencing hair thinning or loss.
Components of PRP
- Platelets: Platelets are small blood cells that are involved in clotting and wound healing. During PRP injections for hair loss, their high concentration helps promote cell repair and regeneration.
- White Blood Cells: White blood cells are essential for the immune system, fighting infections and aiding in tissue repair. They contribute to the healing process by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Growth Factors: Growth factors are proteins that regulate cell growth, division, and survival. These proteins support tissue healing and regeneration, helping to stimulate and revitalize hair follicles when injected into the scalp.
Medical Uses for PRP Beyond Hair Loss
While PRP hair restoration is a common application, PRP therapy is also used in other medical fields. It can help treat joint pain, accelerate wound healing, and enhance skin rejuvenation. Because it uses the body’s healing processes, it can be used anywhere that could benefit from a boost.
How Does PRP Work for Hair Loss?
PRP and Hair Follicle Stimulation
Platelet-rich plasma hair treatments function by directly invigorating hair follicles. The growth factors present in PRP awaken dormant follicles, prompting them to enter the growth phase. This activation can result in enhanced hair density and thickness over time.
PRP and Blood Supply to Hair Follicles
PRP hair treatments have the ability to enhance blood supply to hair follicles. The growth factors in PRP promote the formation of new blood vessels, improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the scalp. This increased blood flow helps to nourish hair follicles, supporting healthier hair growth.
PRP and Inflammation Reduction
PRP for hair loss also helps to reduce inflammation around the hair follicles, which can be a contributing factor to hair thinning. The anti-inflammatory properties of PRP create a healthier environment for hair growth. This PRP treatment can be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing hair loss due to inflammatory scalp conditions.
PRP and Cellular Repair
One of the benefits of PRP hair treatment is its ability to promote cellular repair. The growth factors in PRP aid in the regeneration of damaged cells within the hair follicles. This cellular repair process helps to restore the normal function of hair follicles, contributing to improved hair growth.
PRP and Collagen Production
PRP therapy for hair also boosts collagen production in the scalp. Collagen is a protein that strengthens hair follicles and supports overall scalp health. This treatment for thinning hair enhances the structural integrity of the scalp, making it a more conducive environment for robust hair growth.
The PRP Therapy Process for Hair Loss
Prepping Your Scalp for PRP Treatments
Before beginning a PRP hair treatment, you will want to properly prepare your scalp. This means cleaning the scalp to remove any impurities or excess oil. Sometimes, a mild numbing agent is applied to promote comfort during the PRP injections. This preparation helps create the optimal environment for the treatment to be most effective.
The PRP Injection Process
During the platelet-rich plasma hair treatment, a small amount of blood is drawn from your arm. This blood is then processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. PRP injections for hair loss are then administered into the desired areas of the scalp, focusing on regions experiencing thinning or hair loss.
Post-Treatment Care for PRP
After undergoing PRP hair restoration, following proper post-treatment care is the next step. Patients are usually advised to avoid washing their hair for a day or two and to steer clear of harsh hair products. Following the recommended aftercare instructions allows you to get the best possible outcomes from the PRP therapy and supports the healing process.
A Quick Overview of PRP Results
The results of PRP therapy for hair can vary, but many patients begin to see improvements within a few months. Enhanced hair thickness and density are common outcomes of platelet-rich plasma treatments. Consistent follow-up sessions may be recommended to maintain and enhance the results over time.
Are You Struggling With Hair Loss? Try PRP Today!
PRP hair treatments offer a natural and effective option for those seeking to address hair loss without medications or surgery. At San Diego Aesthetics and Medspa in La Mesa, CA, we prioritize patient care with a minimalistic approach to hair restoration. If you are struggling with hair loss, let us help! You can contact us through our online form or call us at (619) 303-0988.
