Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia: A Systematic Review

June 2018 in “ Facial Plastic Surgery ”

Jenny X. Chen, Natalie Justicz, Linda Lee

platelet-rich plasma androgenic alopecia hair count hair density transient edema erythema pain headache PRP AGA

TLDR Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a low-risk treatment for Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) that generally improves hair count or density, but more research is needed for optimization.

In 2018, a systematic review of 24 studies, involving 471 patients, examined the use of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for treating Androgenic Alopecia (AGA). The review found that 21 studies reported positive results, with improvements in hair count or hair density. However, three studies reported no significant clinical improvement. The treatment was generally well-tolerated, with only minor side effects like transient edema/erythema and pain/headache. The review concluded that PRP is a low-risk intervention for AGA, with good patient satisfaction and objective improvements. However, it also highlighted the need for further research to optimize preparation and delivery methods, standardize outcome measurements, and understand long-term effects and potential gender differences.

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