Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) for Hair Loss
Hair thinning and reduced hair density are common concerns for both men and
women in Sydney Australia. A non-surgical option that is offered at BioCell Cosmetic
Clinic for these concerns is Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF).
What is PRF?
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is an autologous treatment meaning that it uses your own
blood for the procedure. This involves taking your blood, processing it outside of your
body and then reintroducing it to areas of need. PRF is a concentrate of platelets,
fibrin, white blood cells and growth factors, together these components help to
stimulate tissue healing and regeneration.
How does PRF work?
PRF is injected into specific areas of the scalp that are resulting in hair loss or
thinning. The fibrin’s slowly release growth factors to help activate dormant hair
follicles, promote cell growth and increase circulation. The research of PRF for hair
loss is still ongoing and individual responses to the treatment can vary.
Is PRF painful?
PRF can be slightly uncomfortable, however the discomfort can only be temporary
from the injection site and is usually well tolerated by most patients. Levels of
discomfort can vary from person to person.
How many PRF sessions are needed?
The number of sessions required for hair loss can differ between each patient
depending on your concerns, the extent of these concerns and medical history. We
encourage fortnightly/monthly sessions to start, followed by regular maintenance
every 3-6 months. Treatment plans are determined on an individual basis after a
consultation and assessment.
Is there any downtime with PRF?
There is minimal downtime for PRF. Some people may experience temporary
tenderness, redness, swelling and itching. Patients are to avoid washing their hair for
4 hours post treatment. It is also recommended that within the first 24-48 hours
patients avoid any strenuous exercise, saunas, spas, and direct sunlight to the area.
When will I see PRF results?
Responses to PRF vary for every individual and cannot be guaranteed. Some people
may notice gradual changes over several months. There are multiple factors that
attribute to individual results such as genetics, current health, lifestyle and the
severity of hair loss. Therefore, there is no definitive time frame that patients will see
results by.
How long do PRF results last?
Duration of results vary for each individual, however it is recommended to continue
with maintenance treatments to prolong continuing results. Each person’s hair has 4
stages; Anagen phase (growth), Catagen phase (transitional), Telogen phase
(resting), and Exogen (shedding). The importance of PRF maintenance upkeep is
that the PRF growth factors help to sustain the follicles to stay in the Anagen growth
phase for a longer period of time. It also provides continuous nutrients to the scalp
and follicle health, and helps to prevent follicles from shrinking. It is important for all
patients to be reminded that hair loss treatments do not change genetics, and
therefore maintenance sessions help to keep the restored follicles healthy and
prevent the cycle from reverting back.
Who is PRF for?
PRF is for both men and woman that are experiencing hair thinning (telogen
effluvium), pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia), patchy hair loss (alopecia
areata), who are wanting a natural, non-surgical hair restorative treatment to boost
their hair growth, thickness and density. This treatment can also be used post hair
transplant to enhance and sustain their results, as well as in conjunction with hair
loss medication.
PRF vs PRP
PRF and PRP are both autologous treatments that use your own blood, however the
processing and composition are different. PRP uses an anticoagulant to help prevent
your blood from clotting throughout the treatment, whereas PRF has no additives to
your blood sample. The PRP growth factors are released at a fasting rate compared
to PRF which are released more slower due to the fibrin matrix. PRP has been
around for many years and has years’ worth of research and study, whereas PRF is
still an emerging research study.
PRF for skin rejuvenation
PRF can also be used for skin rejuvenation and help with specific skin concerns.
PRF can be used to help improve overall skin appearance, as well as dark circles,
dullness, fine lines, skin texture, pigmentation and hydration. As with all procedures
results vary from person to person and consultations are recommended to provide
the best individualised treatment plan.