From the Guidelines
Age, sex, and comorbidities significantly influence PRP therapy outcomes for hair restoration, with younger patients and women generally responding better to treatment. The response to Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for hair restoration is affected by various factors, including age, sex, and comorbidities. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, the evidence to support the clinical efficacy of PRP in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is controversial, and further research is needed to optimize the use of PRP for treating AGA.
Factors Influencing PRP Response
- Age: Younger patients (under 40) typically respond better to PRP treatments than older individuals due to having more viable hair follicles and better cellular regeneration capacity 1.
- Sex: Men with androgenetic alopecia often require more sessions than women to achieve comparable results, while women generally show better overall response rates 1.
- Comorbidities: Patients with uncontrolled diabetes experience reduced results due to compromised healing and growth factor function, while thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, can diminish PRP effectiveness unless the underlying condition is managed 1.
Optimal Treatment Protocol
- For optimal results, PRP therapy typically involves 3-5 initial treatments spaced 1 month apart, followed by maintenance sessions every 6-12 months 1.
- The recommended dose is 5-7 mL PRP, using 0.05 to 0.1 mL/cm2, and activation of PRP is not required when it is used for AGA 1.
- A complex combined therapy protocol is advisable to achieve the best results, and treatment should be started as early as possible 1.
Conclusion is not allowed, so the answer will continue without one.
The therapy works by delivering concentrated growth factors to hair follicles, stimulating cell proliferation and extending the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, though results vary based on these individual patient factors 1. Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata may show variable responses, and patients with blood disorders or those taking anticoagulants require special consideration before treatment 1.
From the Research
PRP Response in Hair Restoration
Age
- There is limited information available on how age affects the response to Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for hair restoration 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, most studies suggest that PRP therapy can be effective in promoting hair growth in patients of various ages, including younger and older adults 2, 5.
Sex
- Research suggests that PRP therapy can be effective in both male and female patients with androgenetic alopecia 2, 4, 5.
- A study published in the Journal of cosmetic dermatology found that PRP therapy increased hair density in both male and female patients with androgenetic alopecia 2.
- Another study published in the Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery found that PRP therapy was effective in treating androgenic alopecia in male patients 4.
Comorbidities
- There is limited information available on how comorbidities affect the response to PRP therapy for hair restoration 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, most studies suggest that PRP therapy is a safe and well-tolerated treatment option for patients with various comorbidities, including those with a history of medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes 2, 5.
- A systematic review published in Dermatologic therapy found that PRP therapy was effective and safe in treating various forms of alopecia, including androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata, with limited adverse effects 6.
Efficacy of PRP Therapy
- Research suggests that PRP therapy can be an effective treatment option for promoting hair growth in patients with androgenetic alopecia 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A study published in the Journal of cosmetic dermatology found that PRP therapy increased hair density and improved patient satisfaction in patients with androgenetic alopecia 2.
- Another study published in Stem cells translational medicine found that PRP therapy promoted hair regrowth and improved hair density in patients with pattern hair loss 5.