Androgenic alopecia is a hereditary hormone dependent condition that is due to several factors.

About a third of women experience hair loss at some time in their lives due to hormonal changes, stress and some diseases and conditions. However, two-thirds of postmenopausal women suffer androgenic alopecia. The first sign is a widening of the part, followed by dispersed thinning. In men the condition often begins in their 20s and progresses in a familiar pattern. The result can be demoralizing affecting self-esteem, well-being and quality of life.

The evidence is clear. Platelet – rich Plasma therapy is a safe and effective hair restoration treatment that can improve your quality of life. Many scientific studies have shown that PRP therapy is effective to increase hair count, thickness and growth.

What is Platelet – rich Plasma?

Platelet – rich Plasma is a refined product made from your own blood (autologous) and contains therapeutic concentrations of platelets to enhance the healing process.

Platelets are best known for their blood clotting ability, but platelets are a natural reservoir of hundreds of biologically active proteins called growth factors that play a key role in wound healing and tissue repair. PRP harnesses the power of your body’s natural healing abilities to promote follicle regeneration, and hair growth.

How is PRP made?

A small amount of your blood is drawn and spun to separate the platelets from other blood cells and increases platelet concentrations. The concentrated platelet rich plasma rich in biologically active growth factors is ready for injection.

The PRP Treatment

The PRP is injected in to the hair follicles about every half inch or so over the thinning areas, in a short procedure. The activated growth factors stimulate dormant hair follicles to wake up.

Recent studies report that microneedling combined with PRP allows the penetration of the plasma rich proteins to penetrate the scalp delivering better results than the use of PRP alone. PRP and microneedling can be combined with medications like Minoxidil for even better effects.

Side effects are minimal but may include pain at the injection site. Discomfort usually resolves within a few days with the use of ice packs and Tylenol. There may be some bruising which will also resolve within a week. Initially you may find you are losing less hair than you have come to expect. Studies report that after the initial treatment, three treatments spaced every four weeks showed measurable improvements in hair density and regrowth. Twice a year, maintenance treatments will sustain hair growth.

How does PRP work?

Hair follicles are complex, and the growth process is regulated with specific cycles. The growth factors act as biological switches that improve the function of the hair follicles and promote hair growth.

PRP injections soak the scalp and hair follicles in the concentrated plasma and the numerous growth factors to treat inflammation, improve circulation, promote hair growth and thickening of existing hair. Studies report that PRP promotes hair growth by prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, as well as waking up dormant hair follicles.

Who is a good candidate?

The therapy works best when the hair loss is recent in patients with androgenic alopecia. The best way to determine if you can benefit from PRP therapy for hair restoration is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kandula.

Dr. Kandula in Parsippany, New Jersey has the expertise and know-how to help you regain your confidence and improve your appearance with many minimally invasive and noninvasive procedures. Contact Dr. Kandula and schedule a consultation. We will evaluate your concerns and formulate a treatment plan individualized for your needs.