From the Guidelines
Alopecia in women can be effectively managed with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which has been shown to increase hair density, follicle diameter, and terminal hair density, making it a promising treatment option. According to a recent study published in 2025 1, numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of PRP in promoting hair growth, with a significant increase in the number of hairs per cm2 compared to controls. The effectiveness of PRP is dependent on the concentration of platelets, with higher concentrations yielding greater effects on hair density and morphology.
Key factors to consider when using PRP for alopecia treatment include:
- The number of platelets, with higher concentrations being more effective
- The method of application, with microneedling potentially being superior to injection techniques
- The frequency and volume of PRP injections, with inadequate treatment protocols potentially leading to ineffectiveness
- Individual genetic factors, which can influence the response to treatment
Comparative studies have shown that PRP combined with topical minoxidil is the most effective treatment modality, while PRP monotherapy is more effective than minoxidil monotherapy in most cases 1. Additionally, PRP has been compared to other treatments, such as polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) injections, and has been found to generate improvements in hair thickness and density, with combined treatment potentially inducing greater improvement 1.
Other treatment options, such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), have also shown promise in managing androgenetic alopecia, with studies demonstrating an increase in hair density and patient satisfaction 1. However, more research is needed to fully understand the efficacy of PRF compared to PRP.
Overall, PRP therapy is a viable treatment option for alopecia in women, particularly when combined with other treatments like minoxidil, and should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
From the Research
Causes of Alopecia in Women
- Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in women, as well as men 2
- Other causes of hair loss in women include alopecia areata, tinea capitis, telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and trichorrhexis nodosa 3
Treatment Options for Alopecia in Women
- Topical minoxidil 5% is an effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia in women 4, 5
- Spironolactone, an androgen antagonist, has been shown to be effective in treating AGA in women, both orally and topically 4, 6
- Combination therapy of minoxidil and spironolactone may be more effective than monotherapy 4, 6
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has also been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth in women with AGA 5
Efficacy and Safety of Treatment Options
- Topical spironolactone has been shown to have fewer side effects than oral spironolactone and is suitable for both male and female patients 6
- Minoxidil, finasteride, and LLLT have been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth in men with AGA, and minoxidil is also effective in women with AGA 5
- More high-quality clinical randomized controlled studies are needed to further assess the efficacy and safety of these treatment options 2, 6