A comprehensive review of platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of dermatologic disorders
January 2023
in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment”
TLDR
Platelet-rich plasma can increase hair density and may help treat some skin conditions, but it's costly, not FDA-approved, and needs more research.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous preparation rich in platelets and other components, has been studied as a treatment for various dermatologic conditions, including hair loss disorders like androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. The document reports that several meta-analyses and randomized clinical trials have shown an increase in hair density with PRP treatment. PRP has also shown promise in treating cicatricial alopecia, vitiligo, and melasma, but results have been mixed. Despite its potential, PRP treatment is not FDA-approved and is considered experimental. It is also expensive, with a single injection costing up to $750 and a treatment course ranging between $500 and $2500, and is not covered by insurance. The document concludes that more research is needed to establish the efficacy and optimal use of PRP in dermatologic treatments.
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