Are PRP hair restoration injections right for me?

Indications:

• Androgenic alopecia
• Alopecia areata
• Telogen Effluvium
• Traction alopecia - under study

Contraindications:

Traumatic alopecia, CCCA, Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia, Lichen Planpilaris, Pseudopelade, Trichotillomania, Discoid Lupus, systemic or local infection, Injury, Pregnancy or breastfeeding, cancer or chemotherapy, keloids, platelet count less than 105, hematologic or coagulation disorders, untreated anemia, severe scalp psoriasis, body dysmorphic disorder, untreated vitamin D deficiency, untreated PCOS, untreated hyperandrogenic disorders.

How does PRP work to re-grow hair?

• The components of PRP help modulate pathways of tissue repair and inflammation in the scalp.
• PRP interacts directly with stem cells within the hair follicle. Research has shown that PRP helps stimulate the transition from telogen phase (dormant or resting phase) to anagen phase (active growth of hair).
• PRP also stimulates the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), which allow for increased blood flow to the scalp, helping to nourish hair follicles.

What will the treatment be like?

• A venipuncture (standard blood draa vein in your arm) is performed by the doctor.
• Next, the blood is venipunctucentand the PRP is separated out and collected into sterile syringes.
• The PRP is tinjected into the scalp at several sites depending on the pattern and severity of hair loss.

What should I expect afterward?

• It is not uncommon to experience mild swelling, dull soreness, and bruising in the affected areas for the next 24-48 hours. To reduce swelling and pain:
  • apply an ice pack on and off as needed
  • take homeopathic Arnica 200c, take 3-5 pellets directly under the tongue every 4 hours
• You can resume normal shower and shampoo routines.
• Avoid for the next 24 hours:
  • Strenuous exercise or excessive sweating, saunas, or hot tubs
  • Using topical products on the scalp unless rinsed off
  • Sun exposure (wear a hat if outside)
  • Anti-inflammatories (Tylenol/Acetaminophen, Advil/ibuprofen, fish oil, turmeric)
• Avoid using hair dye for 48 hours.
• If you experience unusual swelling, redness, heat, and pain lasting more than 48 hours, this may be a sign of a skin infection which is uncommon but easily treatable. Contact us if this occurs as a topical antibiotic may be necessary.

Results and follow-up injections

• It may take 3-6 months to start seeing results. It is a process to restore dormant hair follicles and the growth initially can take time.
• The best way to track progress is to take before and after photos with consistent lighting and head/hair positioning.

Timing of injections:

• Initial injections: every 4 weeks for the first 3-6 months
• Maintenance injections: 2-3 times per year

How can I maximize the effects of PRP for hair restoration?

• Address the root causes of hair loss with your doctor (hormone imbalance, anemia, stress, etc.)
• Take supplements targeted toward your specific case
• Proper hydration, nutrition, self-care is crucial. Patients with healthier lifestyles generally better results.
• The use of cold laser caps (low level laser light therapy) is an effective addition to treatment
• Avoid excessive sun exposure which can cause oxidative stress to the scalp and affect hair follicle function – use hats and mineral-based sunscreens
• Avoid wearing extensions, or pulling hair back in tight ponytails or braids, especially when wet.