PRP Treatment for Hair Loss
Hair has been one of the most important symbols of strength, youth, and aesthetic appeal throughout history. However, factors such as stress, irregular diet, genetic predisposition, and environmental pollution brought about by modern life have made hair loss a common concern for both men and women. The weakening, thinning, and eventual shedding of hair follicles (roots) after completing their life cycle is a process that affects not only a person’s physical appearance but also their self-confidence. Topical lotions or medications traditionally used to combat hair loss may sometimes not provide the desired effect or may not be preferred due to their side effect profiles. At this point, PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatment, which aims to revitalize hair follicles using the body’s own biological resources, stands out as one of the most powerful regenerative options offered by modern medicine.
Especially in a region like Izmir, where sunlight is intense and sea salt and wind can damage hair, protecting hair health requires extra care. PRP treatment is based on the principle of injecting plasma, obtained from the person’s own blood and enriched with growth factors, into the scalp. This process aims to increase blood circulation in the hair follicles, awakening dormant (telogen) follicles and supporting their transition to the active growth phase (anagen). The fact that it does not contain any chemical or synthetic substances and is a completely natural (autologous) method increases the interest of Izmir residents in this treatment.
The Physiology of Hair Loss and the Role of PRP
To understand hair loss, it is necessary to know the life cycle of hair. Our hair goes through three phases: Anagen (Growth), Catagen (Transition), and Telogen (Resting/Shedding). In a healthy scalp, 85-90% of the hair is in the growth phase. However, genetic factors (Androgenetic Alopecia), hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies shorten the growth phase and “miniaturize” the hair follicles. This means the hair thins, becomes brittle, and falls out.
The main goal of PRP treatment is to reverse this miniaturization process. When powerful growth factors such as PDGF (Platelet Derived Growth Factor), VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), and TGF-Beta, found within platelets, are injected into the hair follicle, they trigger the following mechanisms:
- Angiogenesis (New Blood Vessel Formation): It increases the capillary network that nourishes the hair follicle. More blood means more oxygen and nutrients.
- Cell Proliferation: It stimulates stem cells in the hair follicle to divide and accelerate hair production.
- Anti-Apoptotic Effect: It helps the hair stay in the growth phase longer by delaying the programmed death (apoptosis) of the hair cell.
Application Process: Laboratory Phase and Injection
PRP treatment is a high-tech procedure performed in sterile clinical conditions, lasting approximately 30-40 minutes.
1. Blood Collection and Separation
The procedure begins with taking approximately 10-20 cc of blood from the patient into a special tube. This tube contains special substances that prevent blood clotting and protect the structure of platelets. The tube is placed in a centrifuge and rotated at a specific speed/time. As a result of this physical separation process, red blood cells settle to the bottom, while platelet-rich “golden yellow” plasma remains at the top.
2. Microinjection
This valuable plasma is injected into the scalp, especially in areas where hair loss is intense or thinning (crown, frontal area, etc.), using very fine mesotherapy needles. A local anesthetic spray or cream is applied before the procedure to ensure patient comfort.
Which Types of Hair Loss is it Effective For?
PRP may not show the same effect in every type of hair loss. The situations where its effectiveness has been scientifically proven are as follows:
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Male/Female Pattern Hair Loss): When applied in the early and middle stages of genetic hair loss, before the hair follicles are completely dead, it slows down miniaturization and thickens the hair shaft.
- Telogen Effluvium (Temporary Hair Loss): In cases of intense hair loss caused by stress, seasonal changes, postpartum, or severe diets, it helps to stop hair loss by quickly regenerating the hair follicles.
- Alopecia Areata (Hair Loss): In this condition where the immune system attacks the hair follicle, it can be used as a supportive treatment.
- Post-Hair Transplantation: In patients who have undergone hair transplantation in Izmir, PRP is an indispensable support to increase the retention rate of the transplanted follicles (grafts), accelerate the healing of the donor area, and protect existing hair. It is a treatment.
Environmental Factors and Hair Health in Izmir
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Living in Izmir presents some challenges in terms of hair health.
Exposure to intense sun and UV rays during the summer months damages and dries out the keratin structure of the hair. Sea salt and pool chlorine also damage the hair. Furthermore, the lime content in tap water can affect the scalp’s flora. PRP treatment, with its growth factors, regulates the moisture balance of the scalp, repairs cellular damage, and increases the hair’s resistance to environmental factors. Therefore, for patients in Izmir, PRP is not only an anti-hair loss treatment but also a “hair care and repair” treatment.
Hair Treatment Comparison Table
The most frequently asked question by patients is which treatment is right for them. The table below highlights the difference between PRP and other methods:
| Features | PRP Treatment | Hair Mesotherapy | Hair Transplantation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Material | The patient’s own blood (Autologous). | Vitamin, mineral, drug cocktail. | The patient’s own hair follicles. |
| Mechanism of Action | Cellular regeneration, growth factor. | Nutritional supplementation, deficiency correction. | Surgical transfer (Baldness) (closing). |
| Who is it for? | Those with thinning, falling out, or lifeless hair. | Those with vitamin deficiencies. | Those whose hair roots have completely died and who have developed baldness. |
| Naturalness | 100% Natural. | Contains synthetic vitamins. | Natural-looking surgical procedure. |
| Risk/Side Effects | No allergy risk. | Rare allergy risk. | Surgical risks (Infection) etc.). |
Session Protocols and Expected Results
PRP treatment is not a one-time “magic wand”; it is a process that shows cumulative effects.
The ideal treatment protocol, although varying according to the severity of the patient’s hair loss, generally begins with a “loading dose” of 4 to 6 sessions performed at 2-3 week intervals. The first effects are usually seen after the 3rd session as revitalization of the hair, reduction in hair loss, and increased volume. After the completion of the course, it is recommended to perform a “booster dose” (maintenance treatment) every 3-6 months to maintain the results obtained.
Who is it not suitable for?
PRP treatment does not grow new hair in areas where the roots are completely dead and baldness has occurred (shiny skin appearance). The only solution for these areas is hair transplantation. Also; PRP is not suitable for those with low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), active cancer patients, those using blood thinners, and those with active infections in the application area.
Conclusion: Power from the Root
In summary; “PRP Treatment for Hair Loss” is a process of biologically “fertilizing” and revitalizing hair follicles. By directing the body’s healing potential to the scalp, it prepares the ground for thicker, stronger, and healthier hair growth.
For those in Izmir struggling with hair loss and seeking a non-surgical, natural solution, PRP is a scientifically proven, safe, and effective option. The best step to take to strengthen and protect your hair before you lose it is to start PRP treatment under the supervision of a specialist physician.
