PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a medical procedure that involves collecting a patient's own blood and processing it to obtain plasma containing an appropriate concentration of platelets. The prepared PRP is then administered to the targeted treatment area.
Platelets contain biological substances and growth factors involved in tissue repair and healing responses. PRP has therefore been applied in several medical fields, including the management of certain types of hair thinning and skin rejuvenation in appropriately selected patients.
At Dr. Gorn Aesthetique, physicians assess skin quality, hair and scalp condition, and individual treatment goals before determining whether PRP is suitable for each patient.
What Is PRP?
PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. It is a product prepared from the patient's own blood through a separation process that produces plasma containing a platelet concentration appropriate for the intended treatment.
The general procedure includes:
- Collecting blood from the patient
- Processing the blood through a separation procedure
- Preparing Platelet-Rich Plasma
- Applying PRP to the targeted area according to the treatment plan
PRP preparation methods may vary depending on the system and protocol used.
How Do Growth Factors Work in PRP?
Platelets are not only involved in blood clotting. They also contain various biological substances associated with tissue responses and repair processes.
When activated, platelets can release growth factors and biological mediators that participate in several tissue-related processes.
However, the effects of PRP depend on multiple factors, including preparation methods, platelet concentration, PRP characteristics, and the patient's individual health condition.
What Can PRP Help Improve?
In aesthetic medicine, PRP may be considered for several purposes, including:
- Managing certain types of hair thinning
- Supporting scalp health when clinically appropriate
- Improving skin quality
- Supporting skin texture
- Serving as part of a facial rejuvenation program
- Use alongside other procedures in selected treatment plans
PRP is not suitable for every condition. The underlying cause of each concern should be evaluated before selecting this treatment.
PRP for Hair Thinning and Hair Loss
PRP Hair Treatment is one of the applications of PRP that has attracted significant interest. It involves using PRP on the scalp to support the environment surrounding hair follicles in individuals with certain types of hair thinning.
Before treatment, the underlying cause of hair loss should be assessed, as hair loss may result from several factors, including:
- Androgenetic Alopecia
- Changes in the Hair Growth Cycle
- Certain Nutritional Deficiencies or Conditions
- Medications or Underlying Health Conditions
- Scalp Diseases
- Certain Types of Scarring Alopecia
PRP should therefore not replace a proper diagnosis of the underlying cause of hair loss.
Can PRP Stimulate New Hair Growth?
The effects of PRP on hair depend on the condition of the hair follicles and the underlying cause of hair loss.
In appropriately selected patients who still have functioning hair follicles, PRP may be incorporated into a treatment plan to support hair density or hair quality.
However, if an area no longer contains functional hair follicles capable of producing hair, PRP cannot create new hair follicles to replace them.
In such cases, hair transplantation may need to be considered when clinically appropriate.
Can PRP Be Combined with Hair Transplantation?
PRP may be considered as an additional procedure in certain hair transplantation protocols. However, it should not be regarded as a necessary component of every hair transplant procedure.
The physician should assess the hair loss pattern, donor area, scalp condition, and overall treatment plan before determining whether supplementary PRP treatment is appropriate.
PRP for Facial Rejuvenation
PRP may be incorporated into a skin rejuvenation program, with the aim of supporting tissue responses and repair processes.
It may be considered for individuals concerned about:
- Skin Quality
- Skin Texture
- Age-Related Skin Changes
- Certain Superficial Fine Lines
- Uneven Overall Skin Appearance
However, PRP is not a dermal filler. Its primary purpose is not to restore facial volume or reshape facial contours.
How Is PRP Different from Skin Boosters?
PRP is prepared from the patient's own blood and contains platelets and biological substances associated with tissue responses.
In contrast, skin boosters are injectable products with ingredients that vary by formulation, such as hyaluronic acid. They generally focus on skin hydration or skin quality.
Therefore, these treatments differ in their composition, mechanisms, and intended applications.
How Is PRP Different from Biostimulators?
Although both approaches may be associated with tissue rejuvenation, they are not the same treatment.
PRP is an autologous treatment prepared from the patient's own blood. Biostimulators, on the other hand, are injectable products containing specific active substances, such as PLLA or CaHA in certain formulations, designed to stimulate tissue responses through their respective mechanisms of action.
The appropriate choice depends on the patient's concerns, anatomy, and treatment goals.
How Many PRP Sessions Are Needed?
There is no standard number of PRP sessions that is appropriate for everyone.
The number of sessions and treatment intervals depend on:
- Treatment Objectives
- Skin or Hair Concerns
- Preparation and Treatment Protocol
- Hair Follicle Condition
- Age and Tissue Condition
- Individual Treatment Response
The physician should evaluate the patient's response throughout treatment before determining the next stage of the care plan.
When Will PRP Results Become Noticeable?
PRP does not produce all of its intended regenerative effects immediately because its proposed benefits involve biological tissue responses.
For hair-related treatments, results must be assessed with consideration of the hair growth cycle, which takes time to produce visible changes.
For skin-related treatments, changes in skin quality may also develop gradually. Results vary according to the patient's skin condition and the protocol used.
Is PRP 100% Safe Because It Uses Your Own Blood?
PRP should not be described as 100% safe.
Although PRP uses the patient's own blood, which may reduce certain concerns associated with externally sourced products, blood collection, PRP preparation, and administration remain medical procedures with potential risks.
Possible risks include:
- Pain or Tenderness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding at the Treatment Site
- Infection
- Variability in Individual Treatment Responses
PRP procedures should therefore be performed using appropriate sterile techniques under medical supervision.
Who May Be Suitable for PRP?
Individuals may consider an assessment for PRP if they:
- Experience Certain Types of Hair Thinning
- Wish to Support Hair and Scalp Health
- Wish to Improve Skin Quality
- Are Interested in Autologous Treatments
- Wish to Consider PRP Alongside Hair Transplantation When Appropriate
- Wish to Combine PRP with Other Suitable Skin Treatments Following Medical Assessment
Patients with underlying medical conditions, those taking certain medications, or individuals with blood or platelet disorders should inform their physician before treatment.
How Should You Care for the Treatment Area After PRP?
Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or bruising may occur in the treated area after PRP.
Avoid unnecessary pressure, massage, or manipulation of the treated area. Follow the physician's instructions regarding cleansing, hair washing, or applying skincare products, depending on the treatment location.
