PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Treatment

What Is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)?

PRP treatment is an in-office procedure that uses the patient’s own blood, and is re-injected back into the patient’s targeted area of treatment such as the scalp, to stimulate hair growth, or under the eyes for wrinkles. It is a natural, safe, and effective treatment.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrate derived from the blood, specifically the platelets, which are rich in nutrients and growth factors. These growth factors stimulate hair production. At The Dermatology Institute of Boston, we can provide you with exceptional care and outstanding results using PRP.

Your blood is composed of several components, including red blood cells, blood plasma, white blood cells, and platelets. Platelets are a type of small blood cell responsible for clotting to help stop bleeding. The natural growth factors found in platelets can help to stimulate hair growth.

The first step to get PRP is to draw the patient’s own blood.  This is just like having a blood test done at a laboratory except that it is done right in our office.  Once a patient’s blood is drawn, it is placed into a centrifuge for ten minutes to separate out the platelets.  The platelets are then collected into special syringes for injection into the scalp.  The injections are done into the scalp with a very tiny needle and minimal discomfort and takes only minutes.

PRP for Under-Eye Wrinkles

PRP injection to the under-eye area is a great, natural treatment for addressing fine lines and wrinkles. PRP has many growth factors that stimulate collagen production in the skin, which helps tighten crepey skin around the eyes. It can also reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles. The procedure does not involve medications or fillers and is safe with minimal downtime.

Contact us to book a consultation to see if the procedure is right for you.

PRP for Hair Loss

PRP has made waves as a non-surgical option for hair restoration and hair-loss prevention. The treatment is safe and effective for both men and women, and it produces minimal discomfort with long-lasting and natural-looking results.

The growth factors contained in PRP provide several benefits when injected into the scalp. The treatment stimulates the growth within the hair follicles and provides a supply of nutrients that help to strengthen the hairs, thicken them, and keep them growing for longer. This means that new healthy hairs are growing and fewer hairs are falling out.

We recommend three monthly PRP treatments followed by maintenance treatments every 6 months.

What to Expect with PRP

Before PRP treatment

After 2 PRP treatments with no other hair loss treatment.

1. Your provider will take some blood, typically from your arm
2. The platelet-rich plasma will be separated from the blood via a centrifuge. This takes about 15 minutes while you comfortably wait
3. The PRP is then injected into the affected area
4. Recommended to have three monthly treatments with maintenance treatments every 8-12 months

Common Questions About PRP Treatment

Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Painful?

Everyone is different but most people experience little to no pain with the procedure or some slight discomfort.

Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Safe?

Yes, Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment for hair loss is generally safe. Your own blood is being used instead of donor blood, so the risk of infection is minimized. Furthermore, we always use sterile equipment and techniques to ensure our patients’ safety.

Only a small amount of blood is needed for a PRP treatment session, similar to the amount for a laboratory blood draw. You will be able to drive and conduct your normal activities after treatment.

Is Surgery Necessary for PRP Treatment?

No, PRP therapy for hair loss requires no surgery. No scalpels. No lasers. The procedure only involves blood draws and injections with tiny, short needles in the scalp. There is no need for general anesthesia or a hospital stay.

When Will I See Results?

It takes time for the new hair to grow. You should see results within 4-6 months after the Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment.

Will I Have a Full Head of Hair After Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment?

A single PRP treatment will not likely cause a dramatic increase in hair coverage. This fact is why we recommend repeated treatments.

Final results will differ among patients and largely depend on the degree of hair loss prior to treatment. Your dermatologist will help you set realistic expectations before beginning PRP therapy.

What Causes Hair Loss?

Genetics is the ultimate cause of most hair loss cases in both men and women. Unfortunately, you cannot control your genetics, but PRP treatments can help.

Despite some claims to the contrary, most hair loss cases are not caused by clogged pores in the scalp. Instead, the “root” cause is a lack of blood supply—and the nutrients that come with a good blood supply—to hair follicles.

Will Insurance Cover Platelet-Rich Plasma Dermatology?

No. This PRP dermatology treatment is not covered by insurance.

Schedule a Consultation for Your PRP Treatment

If you are looking for a safe, natural, and effective non-surgical way to rejuvenate your skin or regrow your hair, contact The Dermatology Institute of Boston today to schedule a consultation for your PRP treatment.