Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative cosmetic dermatology treatment that utilizes a small amount of an individual’s own blood to create a unique serum for use in treating hair loss. Since the patient’s own blood is used, PRP therapy is an extremely low-risk procedure with little to no side effects for most patients. The board-certified dermatologists at Colleyville Dermatology are extensively trained and experienced at performing this cosmetic breakthrough treatment which has successfully helped many of our client’s aged skin and hair loss.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM)
Platelet-rich fibrin matrix (Selphyl®) is an enhanced form of PRP therapy offered at Colleyville Dermatology. Selphyl® PRFM, like PRP, uses the patient’s drawn blood to produce a plasma serum to use for minimally invasive cosmetic enhancements.
The difference with PRFM is the plasma is spun at a lower speed, allowing for a higher concentration of platelets while filtering out unnecessary blood cells. Calcium chloride is also added to Selphyl® which converts it into a healing gel that lasts longer in the body. PRFM is typically administered in several sessions over a few months with refresher treatments every 3-6 months.
Like dermal fillers, Selphyl® can be utilized to rejuvenate the skin and decrease fine lines, wrinkles, and scars but, unlike other fillers, there is no risk of allergic reaction, as it uses the body’s own tissue.
PRFM is ideal for treating:
- Fine lines (especially above the lip)
- Creases on the sides of the mouth
- Acne pitting
- Scars
- Sagging skin
- Hair loss
- Under eye hollows (dark circles)
After PRFM treatment, the skin may be swollen, red, or itchy for a day or two. Once the swelling subsides, the enhancements will become more noticeable over the following 2-3 weeks.
How Platelet -Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Works for Hair Loss
A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient’s forearm, and the platelet-rich plasma is separated from other components by spinning the blood on a centrifuge, which takes just a few minutes. The platelet-rich plasma contains materials (growth factors and proteins) that promote hair growth.
The platelets are drawn into a syringe and injected into the areas of the scalp affected by hair loss. The process is typically not painful, but rather creates a feeling of minor pressure to the scalp. The treatment may result in mild temporary soreness at the injection sites, but most patients tolerate the process well with minimal side effects.
The severity of hair loss will determine how many injections are required as well as how many treatment sessions are needed for an optimal outcome. On average, patients require 3 treatments over the first 3-4 months then maintenance appointments every 4-6 months. Each PRP treatment is typically completed in 30-60 minutes.
Am I a Candidate for PRP Therapy for Hair Loss?
PRP therapy can help both men and women and is specifically well-suited for:
- Men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness)
- Women with hair loss due to menopause
- Patients whose hair loss began within the past 5 years
PRP therapy is not recommended for:
- Patients who take blood thinners
- Heavy smokers
- Patients with history of drug or alcohol abuse
- Patients with certain medical conditions such as:
- Cancer
- Chronic liver or skin disease
- Metabolic disorders
- Active thyroid disease
- Low platelet count or other blood disorders
PRP therapy, like other hair loss treatments, is not a cure for the conditions that cause hair loss. This is why multiple sessions are needed to maintain the best hair growth results. If you are experiencing hair loss and are interested in finding out if platelet-rich plasma therapy is right for you, please contact the experts in hair rejuvenation at Colleyville Dermatology for an evaluation.