PRP Hair Restoration

At Complexion Med Spa

PRP (PLATELET RICH PLASMA) HAIR RESTORATION

If you’re dealing with hair loss/thinning, worry no more. Our experienced and licensed medical professionals at Complexion Med Spa are here for you. Many of us struggle from natural hair thinning and hair loss. In fact, according to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery, approximately 56 million adults in the United States are affected by hair loss. Hair loss can be a source of self-consciousness and embarrassment. Up until recently, few non-surgical treatments are offered for total hair restoration.

Recently, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has become one of the most popular regenerative treatments out there. The most well-known PRP treatment has been that of PRP Microneedling, but the use of PRP extends well beyond that. PRP has now become a revolutionary treatment for hair restoration, improving hair thickness and reducing hair shedding. Our certified physician and nurses at Complexion Med Spa are experts in PRP Hair Restoration and are dedicated to delivering improved hair growth and hair thickness to our patients looking to restore their appearance.

/ What Causes Hairloss?

A number of factors can contribute to hair loss in both women and men. Some of those causes are within your control, while others are not. Some factors that can lead to hair loss include:

Hereditary issues
Hormonal changes
Certain medications
Certain medical conditions
Infections
Physical or emotional shock
Certain hairstyles and hair treatments

/ PRP VS OTHER NON-INVASIVE SOLUTIONS FOR HAIR RESTORATION

Up until recently, the only available non-surgical solutions for hair growth or hair restoration were topical treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) or oral medications like finasteride (Propecia). However, the constant upkeep, unpleasant side effects, and often inconsistent results from these treatments can often make patients feel frustrated in their hair regrowth process. Though oral medications and topical treatments can be a useful approach for some, many patients dealing with male-pattern hair loss can deal with side effects (such as erectile dysfunction; flushed skin; scalp irritation; body swelling; etc.). Additionally, patients dealing with female-pattern hair loss are often either contraindicated for or uninterested in taking hormonal or anti-androgenic therapies.

PRP for hair growth has become an innovative treatment for patients dealing with androgenic alopecia, (male-pattern hair loss), as well as female-pattern hair loss and thinning hair along the top of the head. PRP has been proven as an effective regenerative treatment for a myriad of health and wellness concerns, from orthopedics to endodontics to dermatology. PRP hair restoration is a safe, natural, and simple way to improve hair growth without the need for invasive surgery or downtime.

/ The Science of PRP and how it works

PRP Hair Restoration at Complexion Med Spa works on the basis of restoring growth factors within the blood. Human blood contains mesenchymal stem cells and autologous blood products. These elements are essential to regenerate scalp tissue. Once the scalp tissue is regenerated, the hair follicles are able to produce the necessary hair growth.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) contains platelets which are key to stimulating hair follicles to generate hair growth which mainly target the Dermal Papilla, which is a component of the hair follicle. The platelets promote healing and the formation of new cell growth. PRP is an ideal component of hair restoration because it is highly effective in stimulating inactive hair follicles, causing them to revert to the growth phase.

/ SPECIFIC CELLS WITHIN PRP THAT CAUSE HAIR GROWTH

Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF): Promotes blood vessel growth, cell replication, skin formation
Transforming Growth-Factor-Beta (TGF-b): Promotes growth of matrix between cells, bone metabolism
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF): Promotes blood vessel formation
Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF): Promotes cell growth and differentiation, blood vessel formation, collagen formation
Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 (FGF-2): Promotes growth of specialized cells and blood vessel formation
Insulin Like Growth Factor (IGF): A regulator of normal physiology in nearly every type of cell in the body

These platelets in the PRP contain proteins that are needed in order to promote the rate of tissue healing and regeneration within inactive hair follicles. Inside these platelets are a variety of intracellular structures such as glycogen (a form of glucose), lysosomes (which break down the proteins), and alpha granules (which contain clotting and growth factors that get released during the cell repair process). Platelet-rich plasma-derived growth factors can also play a part in stem cell differentiation within the wound healing process of the musculoskeletal system.

/ Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS PRP (PLATELET-RICH PLASMA)?

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is concentrated blood plasma which contains approximately 3 to 5 times the number of platelets found in normal circulating blood. In addition to the platelets, it contains growth factors and other bioactive proteins that aid in wound-healing and hair growth.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY TREATMENT?

Our PRP treatment is extremely convenient and non-medically invasive. To begin, a sample of blood is drawn from your arm and placed in a sterilized container. The vial will then be placed in a centrifuge where it is spun to separate the plasma from the red blood cells. In this process, the platelet count is concentrated to 4 times the normal level and the vital growth proteins from your blood are separated. These activated growth factors derived from PRP are applied by injection to the targeted area of concern for hair regeneration.

Our physician or nurse will administer a series of these injections in the areas of your scalp where new hair growth is desired. The process will include around 30 or more shallow injections. Once you’ve received your PRP injections, you may resume all normal activities as there is virtually no recovery time.

HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT TAKE?

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes from the time your blood is drawn until the PRP is injected into your scalp, and no downtime is required post-treatment.

HOW MANY PRP HAIR RESTORATION TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

The number of PRP treatments you will need varies depending on the hair condition and aesthetic goals of each individual patient. A typical patient who is starting for the first time will do 1 treatment about 4 to 8 weeks apart for about 1 year and then will maintain results with around 2 to 4 treatments per year moving forward. Our professionals will evaluate your treatments during the process to help determine how often you will need additional treatments.

IS THERE ANY DOWNTIME AFTER MY TREATMENT?

No. You will be able to return back to your daily routine immediately after you leave Complexion Med Spa.

WILL THIS TREATMENT WORK ON A BALDING AREA?

It may help a bit however PRP works best where there is existing thinning hair.

DOES PRP HAIR RESTORATION WORK FOR FRONTAL HAIR LOSS?

In recent studies in the journals Dermatologic Surgery and International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, PRP has been indicated as an effective treatment for hair loss. This hair growth and improvement has been demonstrated with patients who experience both androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata, which is defined as unpredictable hair loss in patches all over the scalp. Based on these significant studies, as well as those in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and Men’s Journal, PRP is considered an effective treatment for hair loss throughout the entire scalp.

HOW LONG UNTIL I SEE RESULTS FROM PRP HAIR RESTORATION?

Results will vary depending on the nature of hair loss and desired results of each patient. However, the majority of patients see initial improved hair thickness and hair growth within several weeks after treatment. Optimal results from PRP injections are apparent, on average, about 3-6 months after treatment.

ARE THERE ANY POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS TO PRP TREATMENT?

PRP has been used to restore skin and tissue in patients for several years. However, the hair restoration procedure is relatively new. Within the published studies that have reported improvement in hair growth, recovery from all procedures is easily tolerated. Common side effects include mild soreness and/or discomfort at the injection sites. Additionally, patients who are currently on any kind of blood thinner cannot undergo PRP treatment.

There is essentially no downtime required post-treatment, but we recommend patients avoid exercise day-of, and any alcohol consumption or smoking should be avoided for at least 3 days. It’s also best to wait a full day before washing your hair post-treatment. In order to ensure the best possible outcome from PRP treatment, all previous medical history should be discussed with one of our professionals before starting the treatment, as well as a full assessment of the nature of the hair loss.

ARE PRP HAIR INJECTIONS SAFE?

Yes. In terms of the safety of this product, PRP has been the topic of medical literature from both the United States and Europe. Not only is the product heralded as a revolutionary way to stimulate and restore hair growth, but it is also one of the safest cosmetic hair growth options on the market today.

Currently, PRP is in its early stages of scientific research and subsequent FDA approval. It is not meant to replace the current FDA approved options such as DHT blockers (example: Propecia) and Minoxidil. Regardless, it is an extremely promising and realistic option for those that are grappling with hair loss.

HOW DO I MAINTAIN MY HAIR AFTER PRP TREATMENT?

After PRP treatment, do not use any hair products for at least 6 hours. Also, be sure to avoid swimming, saunas, steam rooms, vigorous exercise, and sun/ heat exposure for at least 24 hours after treatment. Additionally, try to avoid alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine for at least 2 days.

IS PRP HAIR TREATMENT PAINFUL?

No, PRP injections are typically not painful. However, you may experience mild pain or slight soreness at the injection site following the procedure. Our professionals will also go the extra mile in making sure that your experience is made to be as comfortable as possible for you.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR PRP HAIR RESTORATION?

The best candidates for PRP treatment are those that do not have a history of Telogen Effluvium or scarring Alopecia. Typically, candidates who have experienced hair loss more recently, or who are dealing with early hair loss, respond best to PRP hair treatment. Those with hair follicles that have been dormant for longer on the scalp are less likely to be improved by PRP therapy. If you have a thyroid disease, lupus, cancer, a metabolic disorder, chronic liver disease, or certain other medical conditions, you might not be a good candidate. Additionally, patients should not take blood thinners during PRP hair restoration treatment, as the procedure will be significantly less effective.

/ Your Transformative Journey Awaits

Have further questions or looking for more info? Stop by Complexion Med Spa or give us a Call 248-737-6912 or stop by our facility. We will be more than happy to help you. We look forward to servicing you and remember, it’s all about your Complexion!