Researchers have announced success in re-growing patients’ hair with a special solution of their own blood. These so-called vampire treatments for baldness involve strategically injecting areas of balding scalp with solutions of platelet rich plasma, or PRP, derived entirely from the patients’ blood.
The research is the product of scientists from the International Hair Research Foundation and University of Brescia, Italy. Just fewer than 50 patients were observed, and while many received PRP injections, a control group received only a placebo. Three total injections were administered to each patient, after which hair growth was measured. Researchers observed significant hair re-growth in patients treated with PRP injections, showing a strong correlation between PRP therapy and hair growth. Follow-up studies are to be conducted by teams at the Hebrew University Medical Centre in Israel, according to sources familiar with the matter.
“Alopecia is known to lead to overwhelming effects on the patient’s quality of life and self-esteem,” says Nina Goad of the British Association of Dermatologists, commenting on the importance of the research findings. “This could offer hope to thousands,” (i).
And while each patient in the study was treated for alopecia areata, researchers believe the injections may also help individuals suffering with pattern baldness.
“We think it can help to regrow hair on people with androgenic alopecia (male-pattern baldness),” explains Dr. Fabio Rinaldi. “We believe it is the best treatment available, apart from surgery.”
Use of PRP in Hair Transplant Surgery
Cosmetic surgeons are no strangers to PRP injections, which already used in procedures to reduce the effects of aging on the face and hands (i). At our Institute, PRP injections are likewise used to enhance the effectiveness and natural end-result of hair transplant procedures.
How it Works. Research suggests PRP injections may play a critical role in stimulating stem cell activity and growth beneath the surface of the skin. The corresponding increases in blood flow, nutrient/ oxygen delivery, and cellular growth may in turn support healthy hair follicle function. For patients undergoing a transplant procedure, PRP injections may ensure that transplanted follicular units [hairs] receive the nutrition and support necessary to grow, immediately.
Learn More About Our Institute
Our friendly staff includes South Florida’s finest hair transplant surgeons, microscopists, technicians, and registered nurses. We understand the agony and frustration that accompanies hair loss, and we are committed to helping you develop a customized plan that will create natural results.
To learn more about hair evaluations, treatments, and procedures at the Hair Transplant Institute, please contact us online or call us directly at 1.877.443.9070.
Sources:
(i) “Scientists ‘Vampire Treatment’ for Baldness.” The Telegraph. Accessed May 10th, 2013.
(ii) See above.