Unlocking the Potential of PRP Therapy in Hair Restoration: Does It Actually Work for Hair Loss?

Hair loss and thinning hair are common problems affecting all genders, with about 50 million men and 30 million women experiencing some degree of hair loss. These issues often become more prevalent with age, especially after reaching 50, or as a result of stress. While there are numerous hair loss treatments available, their reliability and success vary significantly. Among these treatments, some are grounded in more solid scientific evidence than others.

One such scientifically-backed treatment is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP, a substance derived from the patient’s blood, is treated, and injected into the scalp and has shown promise in healing bodily tissues, including the hair follicles from which the hair grows. Leading plastic surgeons and dermatologists specialising in these areas have conducted extensive research and clinical trials on the use of PRP therapy for patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). In particular, Senior Consultant, Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Allen Rezai have extensively performed PRP Therapy at Elite Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Group in Dubai and in his practice at London Harley Street, and has witnessed significant improvement in hair thinning and hair loss with his patients. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the efficacy of PRP treatment in promoting hair growth and rebalancing the scalp microbiome in individuals with AGA.

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness, affects millions worldwide. This prevalent form of hair loss is driven by a combination of genetic factors and hormonal influences, particularly the effect of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on hair follicles. While current FDA-approved treatments like oral finasteride and topical minoxidil are available, they often come with side effects and may not be effective for all patients.

Recent research has highlighted the potential role of the scalp microbiome in the development of AGA. An imbalance in the microbial communities on the scalp may contribute to hair loss. In healthy individuals, the predominant bacteria found on the scalp are Cutibacterium spp. and Staphylococcus spp., which make up approximately 90% of the total gene sequence. Understanding the role of the scalp microbiome in AGA is crucial for developing novel treatment strategies that target the root cause of hair loss.

In a small study with 14 participants suffering from androgenetic alopecia (AGA), researchers explored how effective PRP treatment is for encouraging hair growth and balancing the scalp microbiome. Here’s what they did:

• Blood Collection and PRP Preparation: Blood was drawn from each participant and processed to separate the platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
• PRP Administration: The PRP was injected into the scalp of each participant once a month for six months.
• Assessments: Researchers examined hair growth and scalp microbiome composition before and after the treatment.

The findings showed notable improvements in hair regrowth for the participants who received PRP treatment.

• Hair Growth: Dermatoscopic analysis indicated positive changes in hair growth parameters.
• Scalp Microbiome: Swab samples from the scalp revealed changes in bacterial populations before and after treatment. Some bacteria became more abundant after the treatment. Although these changes were not statistically significant, they suggest that PRP might help in balancing the scalp microbiome in AGA patients.

Bacterial Analysis

• Phylum Level: The main bacterial groups both before and after treatment were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteriota.
• Genus Level: There were noticeable differences, with certain bacteria like Paenibacillus, Aeribacillus, Spirosoma, and Comamonas being more common after the treatment.

This study suggests that PRP therapy not only promotes hair growth but may also influence the scalp’s bacterial balance, offering a promising approach for managing hair loss in AGA patients.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is known for its benefits not only with hair restoration but more commonly in facial rejuvenation. PRP is also used due its therapeutic benefits for the treatment of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis which plays a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, which is then processed through centrifugation to separate out the plasma, resulting in PRP—a golden-yellow liquid rich in growth factors, and injected using a fine needle to the concerned areas.

At Elite Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Group, Dr. Allen Rezai integrates PRP Therapy in facial rejuvenation, PRP promotes improved skin texture and tone by stimulating collagen production and tissue regeneration, resulting in smoother and firmer skin. It also aids in reducing fine lines and wrinkles by enhancing skin elasticity and thickness through its growth factors. PRP therapy offers natural-looking results as it utilises the patient’s own blood, minimising the risk of allergic or adverse reactions compared to synthetic options such as Anti-Wrinkle Injections and Dermal Fillers. In hair restoration, PRP injections activate dormant hair follicles, promoting hair growth and increasing hair thickness. This treatment approach strengthens existing follicles, prolongs the hair growth phase, and reduces hair shedding, all without surgery. PRP therapy is highly customisable, allowing for tailored treatment plans to meet individual needs and achieve optimal outcomes in both facial aesthetics and hair revitalisation.

The analysis identified that certain bacteria on the scalp can either increase the risk of hair loss or help protect against it. Bacteria like Olsenella and Ruminococcaceae UCG-004 are linked to a higher risk of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), while Ruminiclostridium 9 and Anaerofilum appear to offer protective benefits. These findings highlight the potential importance of the gut-skin axis, suggesting that gut bacteria can influence scalp health and hair growth. By understanding which bacteria are beneficial or harmful, new treatments could be developed that target the scalp microbiome. These treatments might include probiotics, dietary changes, or other methods to promote a healthy balance of bacteria on the scalp, ultimately improving hair growth and offering new hope for those with hair loss.

This study sheds light on the promising benefits of PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy in not only promoting hair growth but also in rebalancing the scalp microbiome, particularly in patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA). This condition, characterised by genetic predisposition and hormonal factors, often leads to progressive hair loss. PRP Therapy’s growth factors stimulate hair follicles, promoting thicker hair growth and prolonging the hair growth phase, while also potentially modulating the scalp’s microbial environment providing reliable solution to patients with AGA. While ongoing research is essential to fully understand the underlying microbiological mechanisms, these recent findings strongly indicate that PRP therapy offers a promising avenue for improving scalp health and hair rejuvenation.

With a commitment to personalised care and exceptional outcomes, Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group led by Dr. Allen Rezai, conducts Bespoke PRP Therapy with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each patient receives tailored treatment that addresses their individual concerns and goals.

Whether you are seeking to diminish signs of ageing, improve skin texture and tone, or restore hair density, PRP therapy offers a natural and minimally invasive solution. Schedule an initial thorough consultation today to determine if PRP therapy is suitable for your needs and start your path toward rejuvenation and enhanced overall well-being.

For information about PRP Therapy in general please visit (PRP Facial Rejuvenation)

For details about procedures and treatments or for a consultation, advice and prices from our Dubai clinic please call +971 4 431 2396 or use our ONLINE FORM.