PRP for Hair Loss: Could It Be for You? [Quiz]

Hair loss affects approximately 85% of men. There are lots of methods for treating hair loss, but Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is unique in that it uses your own body. Curious to see if it could be for you? Take the quiz.

Dealing with Hair Loss

Hair loss can occur for a variety of reasons. Most causes of hair loss are due to genetics. Some other causes are:

• Hormonal: Hormonal changes through aging or reproduction.
• Medication: Certain drugs for high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, arthritis, and cancer.
• Radiation: Radiation of the head can cause hair to grow differently.
• Chronic stress: Extreme stress at one given time, usually associated with a particular event.
• Hair practices: Excessive styling, having hair too tight, and wearing hats often.

Risk can be increased with age, family history, weight loss, medical conditions such as diabetes or lupus, and stress.

What is PRP?

Plasma is the pure liquid contents of blood that is made up of water and proteins. It’s how red and white blood cells can travel through the body.

PRP stands for (Platelet-rich Plasma). It’s a type of therapy that works through the use of injections into the area needing treatment. A sample of blood is drawn, spun in a machine to separate plasma from the rest of the blood.

For hair loss, this plasma is then injected into the affected areas on the scalp. The process typically takes about an hour.

Is PRP Safe?

PRP is safe in most cases as it uses your blood. This eliminates the chance of allergic reactions or other adverse effects that may come about from foreign substances in the body. Minimal side effects associated with drawing blood like mild nausea or dizziness may occur.

Outside of this, pain at the site of injection, tissue damage, nerve injury, or infection can occur. As always, talk to your doctor before you try this procedure.