Platelet-rich plasma effective for female pattern hair loss

(HealthDay)—For women with female pattern hair loss, autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are effective and safe, according to a study published online May 14 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Abeer Attia Tawfik, M.D., Ph.D., and Mai Abdel Raouf Osman, M.D., Ph.D., from Cairo University, examined the efficacy and safety of autologous PRP in the treatment of 30 females with female pattern hair loss. Participants were randomly assigned to receive autologous PRP injection into a selected area, while saline was injected into another area as a placebo. Sessions were performed weekly up to a maximum of four sessions. After the end of the last session, patients were followed up for six months.

The researchers observed a statistically significant difference regarding hair density and hair thickness as measured by a folliscope between PRP and placebo areas (P < 0.005). In 25 patients (83 percent), in the PRP area the hair pull test became negative, with an average number of three hairs. Significant improvement was seen in hair volume and quality in global pictures, together with overall patient satisfaction in PRP-injected sites. During the six-month follow-up, these results were maintained.

"Platelet-rich plasma injections can be regarded as an alternative for the treatment of female pattern hair loss with minimal morbidity and a low cost-to-benefit ratio," the authors write.