Combining PRP with Other Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss is a common concern that affects millions worldwide. It’s no surprise that there’s a big demand for effective hair restoration treatments. Among the innovative solutions is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy which stands out for its convenience and safety for stimulating hair growth. PRP is also one of the flexible hair treatments that can be combined with other hair loss treatments like topical minoxidil or oral finasteride.
What Is PRP and How Does It Work?
RP, or Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy, is a cutting-edge treatment that utilizes the healing powers within our blood to stimulate hair growth. This procedure involves extracting a small amount of the patient’s blood and processing it to concentrate the platelets.
Once the platelet concentrate is ready, it will be injected into the scalp. These injections are known to stimulate collagen production and improve the health of hair follicles. With healthier hair follicles, patients can expect an increase in hair production.
PRP is popular for its natural approach. Since PRP comes from the patient’s sample, the treatment has no risk of allergy and other complications. PRP leverages the body’s innate healing process to rejuvenate the scalp and promote hair density.
Am I a Good Candidate for PRP?
PRP therapy is most effective for individuals experiencing male or female pattern baldness. Candidates must have a regular or average amount of platelets in their blood and still retain some hair, despite thinning.
Early intervention in the hair-thinning process yields the best outcomes. Androgenetic alopecia, a condition marked by progressive hair loss due to an excessive response to androgens, affects up to 50% of both genders after puberty. Those with this condition are prime candidates for PRP.
Hair Loss Treatments That Can Be Combined With PRP
Combining PRP with other treatments can offer a dynamic hair restoration plan for patients. For women, hair thinning typically manifests on the top and crown of the head, often starting with the center hair part growing wider. On the other hand, hair thinning in men begins with a receding hairline followed by a circular area at the back of the head.
Research suggests that PRP may yield optimal results when used alongside other treatments for Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), such as topical minoxidil (Rogaine) or oral finasteride (Propecia), an anti-androgenic drug.
Rogaine (topical Minoxidil)
Rogaine, featuring minoxidil as its active ingredient, has been a staple in hair loss treatment since its introduction in 1986. Approved by the FDA for both male and female pattern baldness, Rogaine is available over the counter in liquid or foam form.
Its hair regrowth mechanism, while not fully understood, is believed to involve anti-inflammatory, vasodilating, and anti-androgenic effects. However, its effectiveness is dependent on continuous application, and results may vary among users.
Oral Finasteride (Propecia)
Finasteride operates by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in the body, a hormone implicated in prostate growth and hair loss on the scalp. By decreasing DHT, finasteride not only curbs prostate enlargement but also fosters hair growth and diminishes hair loss.
Although effective, it requires careful management due to potential interactions with other medications and specific warnings regarding its use during pregnancy. It’s also associated with an increased risk of certain prostate cancers.
Can I Use Hair Products After PRP?
Post-PRP treatment care is important for maximizing the therapy’s benefits. For the first three days, it’s recommended to use pH-balanced shampoo and avoid any hair products for at least 6 hours following the treatment.
Taking a hot shower and washing your hair on the evening of the treatment day can enhance the effects of PRP. It’s also recommended to avoid saunas, steam rooms, and swimming for two days after the procedure.
Is PRP Alone Enough for Hair Loss?
While PRP stands as a promising option for treating hair loss, including androgenetic alopecia and female pattern hair loss, more improvement is experienced if it’s combined with another hair restoration treatment.
PRP can also aid the recovery of hair transplantation and is recognized as a safe, effective, and steroid-sparing alternative for alopecia areata.
The decision to use PRP alone or in combination with other treatments should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. This will help create a treatment plan based on a patient’s hair loss patterns and treatment goals.