Facts About PRP Therapy
Those dealing with male pattern baldness or aging skin may find that platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) therapy can make a significant difference in hair growth and skin quality. The dermatologists at Grossmont Dermatology Medical Clinic discuss how PRP therapy works and its results.
What Is PRP Therapy?
Platelets are tiny pieces of the blood tasked with controlling bleeding. They also promote healing and stimulate new cell growth. The PRP includes intensified growth factors.
PRP therapy involves taking the patient’s own blood for the treatment. Doctors place the blood in a centrifuge, which separates platelets from other blood cells.
Because your own platelets are used, there are no side effects. It is an extremely safe procedure. The effects are long-lasting. After the initial therapy is complete, patients may require maintenance PRP treatments once or twice annually.
How Can PRP Therapy Help?
PRP therapy has long been used by orthopedists to help patients with muscle and tendon injuries. It is increasingly used in cosmetic procedures, specifically for hair loss and skin rejuvenation.
On the cosmetic front, PRP injections are useful in sensitive areas, such as beneath the eyes.
PRP hair growth therapy requires a series of injections in the treatment area, generally spaced out every four to six weeks. For hair growth stimulation for totally bald patients, PRP injections may prove necessary every month for up to six months.
Creating PRP Injections
To create PRP injections, the patient’s blood is drawn. The sample is then put in a centrifuge. Inside the centrifuge, platelets are separated from other blood cells. This concentrates the platelets, which are then combined with the remaining blood sample as the basis of the injections. The PRP amount per injection is roughly three times its normal blood concentration. All injections are performed using very fine needles.
PRP Therapy Preparation
Prior to PRP therapy, patients should stop taking any drugs or supplements that thin the blood. Tell the doctor about any medications you take, as many of these drugs, such as aspirin, are available over the counter.
When used for hair loss therapy, PRP patients should wash their hair prior to the injections without using shampoo or soap. Bring a clean hat. The treated area requires protection for a few days.
No Downtime
In most cases, the entire procedure takes 30 minutes or less. There is no downtime involved with PRP therapy.
Do not wash the treated area for 48 hours. As with any injection, some bruising and discomfort may occur. If necessary, the patient may take acetaminophen for pain relief.
Avoid using hair dyes for at least one week after treatment.
Contact Us
If you have questions about PRP therapy and whether it can help you with hair loss or other conditions, the team at Grossmont Dermatology Medical Clinic invites you to schedule an informational consultation. Please contact our La Mesa office today to request an appointment.
