PRP for Hair Loss in Women: Does It Work or Just Another Trend?

Hair Loss in Women

For women, dense, voluminous hair speaks more about confidence, social behavior, and self-esteem. Unlike men, hair loss in women shows thinning hair primarily along the midline of the scalp and areas above the temples. It begins as a widening part, with the later stages showing a thinned crown, making the scalp more visible.^[1] The female pattern hair loss starts with the miniaturization of the hair follicles, which cannot contribute to further hair growth. In addition to this, weakened hair strands fall with time, further thinning the scalp. Hair loss in women can be due to the following factors:

• Genetics: Hereditary hair loss occurs when genes influence hair thinning, increasing the likelihood of inheriting baldness from close family members.
• Hormonal changes:  Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause, or endocrinal problems like thyroid disorders or PCOS cause hair follicle shrinkage and shaft weakening.   
• External factors: Medications used during certain body conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and weight loss programs, impact hair follicle growth. Other problems, like scalp infections, nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, stress, and excessive hair styling, contribute to hair loss in women.  

Either one or more of these factors interfere with the follicle's growth stages, leading to hair fall. The extent of impact varies from person to person based on the underlying cause. Hair growth is typically divided into three stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. The anagen phase is the rapid-growing stage, followed by a short transitional stage called the catagen and the telogen, where the follicles enter a resting stage and hair strands are shed off.  

Hair Loss in Women Versus Age

Most women begin experiencing pattern hair loss during their reproductive years, with the need for professional intervention increasing between ages 25 and 40. A second peak in hair shedding often occurs around menopause, when hormonal shifts further impact hair density. Though less common, some individuals develop pattern hair loss as early as their teens, with noticeable thinning starting at puberty. A combination of genetics, hormonal imbalances, and external factors typically drives this early onset.^[2] 

Platelet-Rich Plasma for Hair Loss in Women

Platelet-rich plasma treatment, or PRP, is a regenerative method for treating hair loss in women and men. PRP has seen a drastic surge in demand in recent years. Thanks to the effectiveness of the results, the least risks and minimal invasiveness. The plasma used for the therapy is drawn from the candidates themselves. So, PRP does not pose any side effects or cross-reactions like a formulated medication or the biofluids collected from other patients can do.^[3] 

PRP Hair Fall Treatment: What Problems Does It Address?

Clinical studies suggest that PRP for hair loss treatment is effective for the following conditions: ^[4]

• Androgenetic alopecia: The most common baldness shows a shortened active growth phase of hair follicles and progressive conversion of thinning and miniaturization of healthy hair strands. 
• Alopecia areata: An autoimmune condition associated by patchy hair loss affecting individuals of all ages.
• Cicatricial alopecia: A scarring hair loss form caused by physical burns, trauma, and severe infections. 
• Lichen planopilaris: An inflammatory patchy hair loss condition characterized by the redness and scarring of the scalp.

When PRP Doesn’t Work for Hair Loss in Women?

PRP for hair growth in women indeed offers expected results, including enhanced volume and hair thickness. While the treatment is safe, some candidates aren’t suitable for this. PRP for thinning hair women is not suitable for the following health conditions. 

• Thrombocytopenia:  A condition with low platelet count in the blood, which offers insufficient platelets for the effectiveness of the treatment. Low platelet count means a reduced number of growth factors compromising the ability of treatment. 
• Platelet dysfunction: Dysfunctioning platelets due to inherited or autoimmune disorders cause poor clot formation, lower growth factors, and less effective results after PRP in hair loss for women.
• Hemodynamic instability: A condition characterized by abnormal blood flow with lowered blood pressure and poor circulation can pose risks of bleeding and altered heart rate with the PRP for hair procedures.    
• Medical conditions with NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation and pain by primarily inhibiting the action of platelet activation enzymes. Candidates on NSAID dosage cannot expect effective results, and hence, it is not recommended.  

During the initial consultation, you will convey your complete medical history. The dermatologist or hair transplant specialist will rule out any contraindications and suggest the optimal treatment method specific to your case. Candidates on NSAID medication should stop using it for a few days before PRP hair fall treatment. They will suggest alternative methods or a combination of treatments for other conditions. Other alternative methods include medications like minoxidil, finasteride, exosome therapy, low-level laser therapy, stem cell therapy, and hair transplants like FUE and DHI. Some candidates require PRP for hair loss as a combination therapy with hair transplant surgery. While this applies to severe stages of baldness, PRP as an adjunct enhances hair transplant success rate.

When Is the Best Time for PRP for Women’s Hair Loss?

It is better to begin PRP therapy for hair loss in woman as and when you observe the symptoms of female pattern baldness. Note that PRP is effective for mild and moderate stages of baldness either as a standalone treatment or as a combination to other treatment methods. It cannot reverse severe baldness as PRP works by stimulating the existing hair follicles and cannot regenerate the lost hair follicles.

Can I Get PRP for Hair Loss During Pregnancy?

Although PRP is a safe hair regrowth treatment, most dermatologists and cosmetologists recommend postponing it until childbirth. This is because there is limited research on the safety of PRP for hair loss during pregnancy. Without proper clinical evidence, doctors advise against the procedure during stages where a woman's body undergoes significant changes internally as well as externally. While PRP injections are unlikely to cause major disturbances, there is still a risk of infection or allergic reactions due to improper handling. In case of infections, there could be a major trigger in the body’s stress responses affecting the developing fetus. Furthermore, hair loss during pregnancy is common and is majorly due to hormonal fluctuations. In most cases, it naturally resolves itself after childbirth.

PRP for Hair Loss How Does It Work?

A qualified dermatologist or a certified trichologist will perform platelet-rich plasma therapy for hair loss in women. The procedure involves collecting your blood sample and injecting the prepared plasma on the scalp. It's as simple as that!

First, you will meet the dermatologist or trichologist in person and undergo a comprehensive hair examination and a few blood tests. This is to rule out the presence of scalp infections or underlying medical conditions that contradict the procedure. They will then draw around 15-25 mL of your blood sample and centrifuge it. This will separate the liquid plasma from other blood components. The platelet-enriched plasma is separated and injected into the patient's scalp into the hair-thinning areas. PRP for hair loss in women will be carried out in multiple sessions, separated by a 3-4 week span. So, you will return home after treatment and will follow the defined aftercare for apt results.  

How Effective Is PRP for Hair Loss in Women?

Studies proved that PRP hair fall treatment is effective for treatment for women suffering from pattern baldness. Research findings suggest that the treatment, being a natural approach, had minimal side effects and an appreciable safety profile.^[5]  

Platelet-rich plasma injected into the scalp extends the active growth stage of the hair follicles. This is due to the active growth factors in the platelets, which include PDGF, FGF-2, TGF-β, VEGF, IGF-1, GDNF, and EGF. These aid in cell proliferation, differentiation, and new blood vessel formation. Further, the growth factors, along with cytokines, reduce hair follicle apoptosis. The overall effect of PRP for hair growth in women is an increased density, thickness, and recreation in the premature shedding of existing hair follicles. 

Are you ready to reclaim fuller, healthier hair? Get expert guidance from top specialists who will tailor a treatment plan just for you—whether PRP alone or combined with other therapies for optimal results. Take the first step today. Sign up with Envoy Health and book your consultation now!

Diving Deeper Into the PRP Hair Treatment Success Rate in Women

While research suggests PRP is a safe method with minimal side effects, the effectiveness of the results varies with the dosage and injection intervals.^[6] It’s worth mentioning that the effectiveness of PRP in female hair loss depends on the severity of baldness and other case-specific conditions. Healthy women with mild to moderate baldness can expect a 60-80% success rate with PRP. For severe cases of pattern baldness, the success rate lowers to 30%, and PRP would be effective as a combination therapy. 

When To Expect Results After PRP Hair Treatment Success Rate Females?

Studies suggest that PRP has a success rate of 70–90% in women with androgenetic alopecia. The treatment helped restore hair density and thickness over time. Note that the method does not show overnight results, as it slows down the follicular shrinkage and pushes the existing follicles into the active growth phase, which may consume some time.^[7]  Most women undergoing PRP for hair loss start seeing reduced hair fall within the first month. However, you will have to wait for 3-4 months for noticeable hair regrowth and improved volume and thickness. This requires approximately three repeated PRP injections separated by 4-6 weeks, followed by maintenance sessions every 6-12 months. Note that PRP works on the platelet activity, which may diminish with time. Hence, periodical maintenance sessions are recommended for sustained results.   

Know the Female PRP Hair Treatment Cost

In the United States, the initial 3-4 sessions of PRP treatment for hair cost between $1,500 and $3,500 per injection.  PRP for hair loss treatment is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. The PRP injection charges will be out-of-pocket expenses. The maintenance injections that follow after 3-4 sessions are slightly lower than the initial PRP sessions. Note that some providers also charge as package deals for the initial sessions, which may lower your overall cost per session.   

PRP for Hair Loss in Women Side Effects

While PRP for hair loss treatment is safe and effective, the method poses certain minor side effects, such as:

• Mild discomfort, including redness, pain, and swelling, occurs at the injection site. However, this generally subsides with time. 
• Itching and inflammation at the injection site that is dealt with by the prescribed anti-histamine drugs that you use for the initial few days.
• Temporary hair shedding, also called telogen effluvium, is characterized by excessive hair fall, which usually reverses itself.  

PRP hair treatment side effects are mild and temporary. Pain, redness, and swelling result from the body's inflammatory response to the injected platelets. The platelets stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to nourish the growing follicles. This causes redness and tenderness of the scalp tissues. Besides, the needle injections create micro-injuries in small blood vessels under the scalp, leading to minor bruising and tissue irritation near the injection areas.

What if PRP for Hair Loss in Women Goes Wrong?

No medical treatment is entirely risk-free, but opting for one with less serious side effects is a wise decision. PRP therapy for hair loss in women is generally a safe procedure with minimal side effects. Speaking about the risks of PRP hair loss treatment, it's worth mentioning that making the right choice is important. A qualified dermatologist or a skilled trichologist can effectively handle the PRP treatment. A wrong choice can cause severe outcomes. Some candidates experience mild to moderate headaches after PRP therapy. In rare cases of mishandling, the injected site may show scalp infection or scarring along with calcification. The infections occur due to poor aftercare and hygiene followed. Further, some face severe confusion, muscle aches, and bladder control issues due to anesthesia.  

Is PRP Good for Female Hair Loss? Evaluating Cost and Benefits

The worth of PRP for hair loss in women, in fact, is case-specific and relates to budget expectations, hair loss severity, and overall aesthetic expectations. Measure the PRP for hair cost to its long-term benefits versus side effects to understand the worth of the procedure. PRP for women’s hair loss cost may seem high with its upfront costs. Paying an amount of $1,500 and $3,500 per session that is non-surgical and minimally invasive is indeed costly. While the costs account for the sophisticated technology used, the quality of PRP speaks for itself, reflecting the effectiveness of the results. Further, adopting apt sterilization techniques ensures that extracted plasma is infection-free, reducing the risk of infections. In this scenario, it's crucial to weigh the possibility of PRP for hair loss side effects. The procedure is safe, with minimal risks. While the extent of results varies, some individuals start noticing positive results with improvement in hair density and thickness. This makes PRP a promising investment for those looking for non-surgical, risk-free hair restoration options. 

How To Maximize PRP Results for Hair Loss?

To maximize your chances of effective results, stick to the recommended PRP hair treatment before and after measures. 

• Your dermatologist or trichologist will establish a schedule based on your hair loss intensity. Adhere to the recommended PRP sessions as defined by your doctor.
• Follow the pre-treatment guidelines that may include avoiding smoking, alcohol, or certain medications that may interfere with the treatment.
• Stay hydrated and nourish your body with the required vitamins and minerals before and after PRP hair treatment. Eat a healthy diet that supports hair strand growth. 
• Avoid extensive hair styling products as the heat or chemical composition may damage the scalp and hair. Some products may even cause scalp irritation after PRP injections.
• Never miss the follow-up PRP sessions. The booster PRP doses enhance the initial results and results obtained from the initial PRP treatment. Skipping them will slow down the progression and overall effectiveness of the procedure.
• Chronic stress triggers hormonal cascades that can negatively impact the hair follicular growth. Practice deep breathing and meditation to regulate stress and support hair follicular growth. 

Where To Get PRP Injections for Hair Loss?

PRP injections are not chemical preparations available in stores. They are customized preparations made from your blood sample. The procedure is carried out by a qualified dermatologist, certified trichologist, or hair transplant specialist. Suppose you are a woman and are looking for PRP hair treatment near me, all you need to do is find a reliable provider. Perform meticulous research and choose the best provider. Prioritize safety, budget, and quality. Rely on PRP for women’s lair loss reviews of the clinic you consider for your treatment. They speak volumes on the quality of care you can expect at the clinic. Further, one can see noticeable results 3 months after initial treatment. Check the 3-month PRP for hair loss before and after photographs to measure the effectiveness of outcomes.  

Hair loss treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Consulting the right specialist will help you determine if PRP aligns with your expectations, budget, and goals. While its worth is case-dependent, PRP for hair loss in women offers effective results that are safe and risk-free. 

Don't let hair loss shake your confidence. Take control today and move toward thicker, healthier hair. Book a consultation with top hair specialists through Envoy Health and start your PRP journey with expert care!

References 

1. Female-Pattern Hair Loss: Therapeutic Update
2. Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Clinical And Pathophysiological Review
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma For Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review Of The Literature And Proposed Treatment Protocol
4. Platelet rich Plasma And Its Use In Hair Regrowth: A Review
5. Effectiveness Of Platelet-Rich Plasma In Treating Female Hair Loss: A Systematic Review And Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
6. Effectiveness Of Platelet-Rich Plasma In Treating Female Hair Loss: A Systematic Review And Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
7. Platelet rich Plasma And Its Use In Hair Regrowth: A Review