TLDR Platelet-rich plasma treatment is effective for increasing hair thickness and works well for hair density in men with androgenetic alopecia.
The document reviews the effectiveness and side effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AAG), analyzing 13 articles, including 4 comparing PRP therapy to Minoxidil. Both treatments were found to be effective and well-tolerated. A meta-analysis showed that PRP significantly increased hair diameter in both men and women, but only significantly increased hair density in men. The majority of the studies reviewed showed positive results for the use of PRP in treating AAG in both sexes.
8 citations,
April 2020 in “Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America” Minoxidil, finasteride, and low-level laser light therapy are effective FDA-approved treatments for hair loss.
21 citations,
May 2016 in “The Cochrane library” Topical minoxidil helps treat female pattern hair loss, but more research needed for other treatments.
13 citations,
January 2016 in “Journal of the Egyptian Women's Dermatologic Society (Print)” Minoxidil works faster and is more cost-effective for treating hair loss, but platelet-rich plasma microneedling can be an alternative for those who can't use minoxidil.
70 citations,
February 2017 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Treatment with plasma rich in growth factors improved hair density and thickness for hair loss patients.
66 citations,
June 2018 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” No cure for female pattern hair loss, but various effective treatments exist.
3 citations,
February 2021 in “Medical journal, Armed Forces India” Combination therapy promotes better hair growth and density.