Q: Dr. Bernstein, I am experiencing side effects on Propecia, are there alternative treatments? — J.D. ~ Roslyn, N.Y.
A: Yes, minoxidil (Rogaine), low level laser therapy (LLLT), and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). Unfortunately, none of these will be as effective as finasteride.
Posted by Updated 2018-07-03Q: I am a 65 year old female who has recently experienced thinning hair and I’ve heard of PRP treatments. Is PRP safe and does it work for older people?
A: PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is safe for persons of any age, although we don’t administer it to pregnant women and those under 18. It can be helpful as long as the person has enough miniaturized hair for it to work on. It will not work on a totally bald area of the scalp.
PRP for Hair Loss
FAQ about PRP Treatment
An article in the September/October 2015 issue of Hair Transplant Forum International highlighted results of a 6-month study of platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment in a 23-year-old male diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia (common male pattern baldness). The study showed a significant increase in hair density and decrease in miniaturized follicles, as well as an apparent darkening of hair pigmentation.
Posted by Updated 2015-12-10Research published in the online edition of the journal STEM CELLS: Translational Medicine has found that Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy (PRP) may boost hair regrowth in people with androgenetic alopecia (common hair loss). Previous studies have shown that PRP has the potential to reverse hair loss, but these were limited by a short duration of study. This is the first published research showing the long-term efficacy of PRP therapy for hair loss.
Posted by Updated 2016-09-20Q: It was recommended by the doctor that I have a hair transplant. Could I do platelet rich plasma (PRP) instead?
A: PRP will generally be inadequate for patients who are candidates for a hair transplant. PRP works to reverse (thinning hair) as do other medical treatments (Propecia, Rogaine, LLLT). Unfortunately, medical treatments do not grow hair back once it has been lost.
Posted by Updated 2016-05-06