An Introduction to PRP Treatments

Platelet-rich plasma treatments, also known as PRP, were first pioneered to help chronic pain sufferers deal with their pain. Over time, this technique has been perfected to help with both hair loss and skin care. Let's take a look at some of the history behind PRP and how it can potentially be beneficial for both your hair and skin.

History of PRP

PRP is not relatively new. The technique came about during the 1970s and developed in the field of hematology. PRP described plasma with a platelet count higher than the surrounding blood. Originally, PRP was used as a blood transfusion process to treat thrombocytopenia, a condition where patients have a low platelet count. In the 1980s, PRP was used in maxillofacial surgery and over time, it was discovered that it could be used for other medical and cosmetic procedures.

How PRP Treatments Work For Hair Loss and the Skin

PRP, as a procedure, is relatively simple. To start, the practitioner draws a small amount of blood from your body and separates the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. The area of your body being treated with the PRP injections is numbed and a doctor injects the plasma. PRP treatments, for hair loss, are primarily aimed at treating baldness that is related to hormones and can be used in both men and women. For men, this type of baldness usually starts at the front of the head and women may start noticing that their hair starts thinning towards the crown of the head. PRP can also be used for skin care. The plasma is injected into specific areas of the skin and acts as a matrix to help grow and regenerate tissue through the promotion of collagen and it also potentially speeds up the skin's ability to repair itself. Ultimately, the goal for PRP in skin care is to promote smoother and tighter skin , less scarring, and overall better skin tone.

Benefits of PRP For Improved Skin Care and Reduction of Hair Loss

Potentially, PRP helps promote hair growth by lengthening the growing phase of the hair cycle. Research supports that the platelets, when they reach the hair follicle, stimulates the cells that support hair growth. For the skin, not only does PRP potentially support elastin and collagen production, but it can help deal with issues like wrinkles, scars, lines and stretch marks. Generally speaking, PRP works by helping promote the cells in the body responsible for hair and skin growth. PRP is not necessarily a good fit for everyone. The research supports that it may be most beneficial for individuals who are experiencing patterned baldness that is related to hormonal changes and, often, has the potential to work best early on when the baldness is first noticed. PRP for skin care often works best when used in conjunction with other types of skin treatments. Consultation with a doctor will often give you the best insight as to whether or not you are a viable candidate for PRP treatments.

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