PRP Hair Treatment Explained: Does Liquid Gold Really Work?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is gaining massive popularity. We dive deep into the science behind PRP, what the procedure involves, and the real results you can expect.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative, non-surgical treatment that uses your body's own healing mechanisms to stimulate hair growth. Often referred to as "liquid gold" due to its yellowish color, PRP is packed with growth factors that can rejuvenate dormant hair follicles.
The 3-Step PRP Process
The procedure is relatively quick and is usually completed within 45 minutes in a clinical setting. Here is how it works:
- Blood Draw: A small amount of blood (typically 10-20ml, similar to a routine blood test) is drawn from your arm.
- Centrifugation: The blood is placed into a centrifuge machine that spins at high speeds. This separates the fluids of the blood, isolating the platelet-rich plasma from the red blood cells.
- Injection: The highly concentrated PRP is drawn into a syringe and strategically injected into the areas of the scalp experiencing thinning or hair loss.
Who is the Ideal Candidate?
PRP is most effective for individuals experiencing early-stage hair thinning or active shedding. It is incredibly popular as a complementary treatment following a hair transplant, as it speeds up the healing process and boosts the survival rate of newly implanted grafts.
Setting Expectations
It's important to note that PRP cannot grow hair on a completely bald area where the follicle is dead. It requires multiple sessions (usually 3 to 4, spaced a month apart) followed by maintenance sessions every 4-6 months to sustain the results.