Does Your Hair Need Help? Let’s Talk PRP!

Over the course of a lifetime, many men and probably more women than one would imagine encountering the issue of hair loss. Because male pattern baldness is such a common condition, many perceive it as relatively benign. Losing one’s hair or experiencing significant thinning is just a matter of age, right? Maybe. But there is also the matter of self-confidence and how hair plays a part in maintaining a strong sense of self.

It isn’t a stretch to say that hair loss can damage self-esteem and confidence. Many people who don’t have the hair they used to or wish to have struggled to find the right solution. You don’t have to do much investigative work to see the value in PRP therapy for hair loss. We are pleased to offer this service in our Sonterra and La Casita offices. Here, we discuss what this method of hair restoration is and what you might expect if you elect to receive it.

What is PRP therapy?

PRP is the term for platelet-rich plasma. Plasma is the liquid aspect of the blood that holds the solid aspect, the red and white blood cells. Platelet-rich plasma is the blood product that contains several proteins and growth factors, some of which promote clotting and some of which promote tissue regeneration. In clinical studies, PRP has healing effects on soft tissue, joints, the skin, and on hair follicles.

What PRP Therapy for Hair Loss Involves

The PRP treatment process is generally uncomplicated. First, a numbing agent is administered onto the scalp. As this local anesthetic is taking effect, a blood draw is performed. This is similar to the standard blood draw one would undergo during a routine health checkup. The blood that is obtained is placed into a high-speed instrument that spins to separate solid from liquid. Within a few minutes, blood plasma is completely separated from red and white blood cells. This liquid is placed into a syringe which is then used to inject PRP into the scalp.

What Happens after PRP Therapy

The insertion of PRP into the scalp leads to absorption of the proteins and growth factors into tissue, including hair follicles. These regenerative substances provide ongoing stimulation incapable hair follicles to increase the active growth phase. Simply put, PRP increases natural hair growth. Because of this, the results of the treatment look completely natural.

There is no recovery period to speak of after PRP for hair restoration. Patients may encounter slight discomfort in the scalp but this is typically manageable with over-the-counter medication. It is possible to shower after 12 to 24 hours and resume normal activities as soon as the following day. Some people do bruise but this side effect is generally disguised by hair.

Because PRP promotes natural hair growth, the effects of treatment are typically observed about two months after the procedure. Follow-up sessions may be scheduled after 8 weeks if necessary.

Learn more about PRP for hair loss. Call a San Antonio office near you.