PRF Hair Restoration
What is PRF hair restoration?
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) hair restoration is a completely natural organic process shown to stimulate hair growth in both men and women suffering from hair loss. It involves drawing your blood, separating the cells and factors that promote hair growth in a centrifuge and reinjecting it into the scalp.
Hair Loss
Hair loss affects 50 million men and 30 million women in the US. It may start as early as puberty and increases with age. By age 50, 50% of men are affected and by age 70, 40% of women are affected.
There are many causes of hair loss, most common being genetic and hormonal. Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form hair loss in both men and women. It caused by a hormone called DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), a byproduct of testosterone, which attacks the hair follicles causing hair to fall out and stop growing. This type of hair loss also carries a genetic component. In men it's called male-pattern baldness and is evidenced by a receding hairline and progresses to baldness on the top of the head. Female-pattern baldness results in a frontal hairline that is typically spared with diffuse hair loss and widening of the anterior part.
Other reasons for hair loss include medications, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medical conditions (anemia, thyroid problems). Poor diet and lifestyle can also cause hair loss as well as harsh hair care products and styles that can cause hair breakage (bleaching, perms, heat, tight styles with prolonged tension).
Although there is no cure for hair loss, there are many treatments available that can significantly improve this condition. There are topical treatments such as minoxidil and oral medications and supplements. Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) / Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections are a patient-derived approach thought to stimulate and strengthen existing hair follicles. PRP/PRF has been scientifically validated for hair and skin applications.
PRF and PRP benefits people in early stages of hair loss; therefore, it’s crucial to start treatments as soon as possible for most effective results. It can be combined with other treatments to optimize results.
What is PRF and how does it differ from PRP?
PRP (platelet rich plasma) and PRF (platelet rich fibrin) are used for their regenerative and rejuvenating properties in different areas of medicine. For many years, Platelet rich plasma (PRP) has been used mainly in orthopedics for for tissue regeneration and PRF has been used in regenerative dentistry. More recently, however, both treatments have been applied in esthetic medicine for skin and hair rejuvenation.
Both PRP and PRF treatments are derived from patients own blood which is spun down in the centrifuge to separate the platelets from other cells. Platelets are naturally occurring substances in your blood that play an essential role in clotting and activating stem cells and growth factors to promote tissue healing and regeneration.
To make PRF blood is spun at lower speeds for shorter times, in the centrifuge, without any anticoagulant additives therefore it becomes thicker with time. That thick fibrin matrix traps platelets, and other cells leading to more growth factors which are released over a longer period of time (one week) optimizing healing and regeneration.
To make PRP blood is spun at higher speeds and for longer times, in the centrifuge, with an anticoagulant additive to prevent clotting and fibrin formation. This lack of fibrin matrix, not only decreases the concentration of growth factors but also stimulates their release over much shorter period of time (hours) which can decrease the overall effectiveness of the rejuvenation process.
Currently there is some scientific evidence on the effectiveness of PRP or PRF treatments of the scalp. PRP/PRF has been shown to have overall rejuvenating effects on the scalp by strengthening existing hair follicles. However PRF a is more superior method as it's been shown to contain more platelets and growth factors compared to PRP.
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Day of Treatment
Your blood is drawn into 2-4 vials. The blood is then spun in a centrifuge to separate platelets, white blood cells from red blood cells, and plasma. This process concentrates the platelets and separates out helpful factors. This fluid, rich in fibrin is then injected into the scalp using a small needle. PRF causes a mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. As the platelets organize in the clot they release a number of enzymes to promote healing and tissue responses including attracting stem cells which release growth factors to repair the damaged area. The full procedure takes approximately an hour.
Results are generally visible at three weeks and continue to improve gradually over the next three to six months. Generally, three treatments are advised spaced at one month apart, however, more may be indicated for some individuals. Current data shows results may last 18-24 months. Once your results are achieved yearly treatments will be required to maintain your results.
PRF scalp injections can also be combined with serums containing growth factors derived from bone marrow to maximize hair rejuvenation. AnteAge® growth factor serums are specifically formulated for hair growth. AnteAge® is a professional and reputable evidence-based skin care line. A microchanneling device is used to create tiny punctures in your scalp and the growth factors are applied topically which are absorbed into the skin. If you are interested in this procedure please discuss with your provider during your consultation.
Alternative treatment
PRP/PRF does not create new hair follicles or restore follicles that have already died. Thinning hair is believed to benefit from PRP/PRF treatments, but PRP/PRF is not believed to treat complete baldness. There are alternative forms to PRP/PRF scalp treatments that are non-surgical and surgical. The non-surgical alternatives consist of pharmaceutical therapy such as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, topical treatments such as minoxidil, and homeopathic treatments, red LED light therapy. The surgical alternatives of aesthetic injectables are Follicular Unit Extraction and FUT (strip procedure) or hair transplants. Risks and potential complications are associated with alternative forms of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is this new service painful?You betcha! 😉
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When will I see results?Results are generally visible at 3-4 weeks and continue to improve gradually over the next three to six months
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What about aftercare?Apply ice packs to scalp as needed. Avoid sun exposure to the area, heat and strenuous activity that involves excessive sweating. Avoid touching or scrubbing the area for a minimum of 12 hours after treatment. You can generally resume regular activities on the day following your procedure
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How long does it take?About 45-60 minutes
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What are common side effects?Scalp tenderness, tightness, minor bleeding, and headache are the most common side effects, directly following the procedure. These generally subside after 1-2 days. All risks will be discussed in detail during your consultation
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Is it painful?There is some discomfort associated with the injections. To minimize discomfort your provider can apply topical numbing agents and use a small vibrating anesthetic tool near area of injections
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Who is not a good candidate?People who experience complete baldness will not respond to this treatment. Procedure may not be safe for those with active scalp conditions/infections, uncontrolled diabetes, active cancer/chemotherapy, pregnancy and breastfeeding
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How long does it last?Results may last 18-24 months. Once your results are achieved yearly maintenance treatments will be required to maintain your results
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How much will I need?Generally, three treatments are advised spaced at one month apart, however, more may be indicated for some individuals
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How many treatments will I need?A series of 3-6 treatments spaced one month apart is necessary for optimal results. In one study, a series of three PRF injections resulted in significant rejuvenation of the face skin at 3 month follow up 1
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How long does it last?6-12 months depending on skin quality and skin care routine/maintenance
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What are common side effects?Minimal swelling and possible bruising
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How long does it take?The whole process should take about 30-60 minutes
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What is the aftercare?Don’t touch or rub treatment area or apply makeup on day of procedure. Avoid strenuous activity, and do not touch, rub, or apply makeup for 24 hours following the procedure
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Who is not a good candidate?Women who are pregnant. Also those with poorly controlled diabetes, active herpes in treatment area, any condition causing a suppressed immune system (active cancer, autoimmune disease, on auto immune medications) active cystic acne, open skin wounds, skin infection or other active skin condition in treatment area
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When will I see results?Most patients see improvement in 2- 4 weeks, with greater success after multiple treatments
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Is it painful?There is minimal discomfort with PRF. A cannula is used most of the time to inject PRF which causes less discomfort, skin trauma, and risk of bruising
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What is the aftercare?Avoid applying makeup for 24 hours following the procedure. Keep skin moisturized, avoid sun exposure for 2-3 few days
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Who is not a good candidate?Dermaplaning is generally safe for everyone. However, if you have an active skin condition, inflammation, or infection, you should wait until the issues are resolved before getting the procedure or consult with your medical professional
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When will I see results?Benefits are immediate
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What are common side effects?Skin may become dry and red on day of procedure. Dryness may last for a couple of days so it is important to keep your skin moisturized. Small incidental abrasions may also occur during the procedure
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Is it painful?This procedure is completely painless
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How often should I get it done?Every 4-6 weeks for maximum benefits
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How long does it take?45-60 minutes
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What is the aftercare?Patients are advised to refrain from strenuous activity for 12-24 hours post injection
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Is it painful?There is minor discomfort. Some describe it feeling like a bee sting
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How long before I see results?You may see results in as little as 2 days; however, it takes up to 14 days for full effects
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How much will I need?That depends on number of areas treated and wrinkle depth. The amount will be determined during your consultation
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How long does it last?Studies have shown results may last up to 5 months or more. On average they last 3-4 months after which additional treatments will be necessary to maintain results
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Who is not a good candidate?Those with allergies to any ingredients in the product are not good candidates. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have active facial skin infections or neuromuscular conditions (ALS, Myasthenia Gravis, Lambert Eaton Syndrome) are also not good candidates
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What are common side effects?Side effects are minimal. Most common are minor swelling and bruising at the injection site which is temporary. You provider will have a thorough discussion about all possible side effects during your consultation
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Can I insert an image, video, or gif in my FAQ?Yes. To add media follow these steps: 1. Enter the app’s Settings 2. Click on the “Manage FAQs” button 3. Select the question you would like to add media to 4. When editing your answer click on the camera, video, or GIF icon 5. Add media from your library.
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How do I add a new question & answer?To add a new FAQ follow these steps: 1. Click “Manage FAQs” button 2. From your site’s dashboard you can add, edit and manage all your questions and answers 3. Each question and answer should be added to a category 4. Save and publish.
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How do I edit or remove the “FAQ” title?You can edit the title from the Settings tab in the app. If you don’t want to display the title, simply disable the Title under “Info to Display”.
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What are common side effects?Light peels may cause mild itching and dryness Medium peels cause skin redness, tenderness, itching, skin peeling. Your skin will peel for up to 7 days
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When will I see results?Light peels results will be noticeable the following day. Your face will glow Medium peels you will see results after 7-10 days
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Who is not a good candidate?Those with open wounds, skin infections, sun burn, active cold sores. Allergies to peel ingredients or Aspirin, weakened immune system, problems with excessive scarring and hyperpigmentation also lead to poor candidacy. Use of Accutane in past 4 months, recent cosmetic surgery, laser skins procedures, or dermabrasion are also associated with poor candidacy for peels. This can be discussed further during your consultation.
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How long does it take?20 minutes
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How often should I get it done?Light peels can be performed every 2 weeks Medium peels can be performed every 4 weeks. Although you can obtain great improvement with one treatment, a series of peels is recommended for optimal results
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Is it painful?There may be minimal discomfort which may feel like light tingling or stinging upon application. This resolves within 15 minutes
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What is the aftercare?Light peel: Avoid makeup, excessive sweating on day of peel. You may return to regular skin care and makeup routine on day three. Wear sun protection. Medium peel: You will be given a post-care home kit which is an essential part of the peeling and healing process. Each patient should carefully follow instructions given in post peel kit
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When will I see results?The results are immediate and may improve over time
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What are the common side effects?Swelling and bruising are most common which subside within couple days to a week. Using topical and oral supplements as well as cold packs can diminish these side effects. All potential side effects will be discussed at time of your consultation
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How much will I need?This depends the amount of volume loss and your overall treatment goals in terms of how many areas you wish to treat (i.e.., lips, cheeks, chin…). This can be discussed during your consultation
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Who is not a good candidate?If you have active infection or skin inflammation. Known allergies to HA fillers or their ingredients. Also if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
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How long does it last?Typically fillers last up to 15 months or longer. However that depends on the individual and location treated
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How long does it take?That will all depend on the number of areas treated but in general it can take up to 45 minutes. If topical numbing cream is used that will be an additional 20 minutes.
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What about aftercare?Avoid any activities that make you red and sweaty (exercise, tanning, hot baths/showers) for 24 hours. Do not touch or apply pressure or makeup to area treated for first 24 hours. You will receive detailed post care instructions outlining restrictions.
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Is it painful?There is some discomfort when injecting dermal fillers however many contain a numbing agents. In addition, the use of cannulas, which are blunt round devices, instead of needles to place filler results in much less tissue trauma which significantly decreases pain, swelling and bruising. In some cases, needles are still used when precision is required, however topical numbing agents and vibrating devices can be used to decrease discomfort
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What about aftercare?You will be given a post care instructions and skincare kit. It is imperative that you stay out of the sun or wear sun protection during the healing process
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How long does it last?Greatly depends on amount of treatments, lifestyle and preventative skin care. Since aging is a progressive process maintenance treatments will likely be recommended
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When will I see results?Many patients see results just after one treatment. Skin will continue improve in texture over the next month. In order to get optimal results from these procedures, it is recommended that they are done in either a series of 3 or 6 treatments, spaced one month apart
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What are common side effects/downtime?Downtime will vary depending on device and depth of needles used. Because microneedling/microchanneling penetrates the skin, it’s common to experience redness, tightness, dryness, burning, swelling, bleeding and some pain. You may also experience some peeling several days post procedure. Although these symptoms may take 2-7 days to resolve completely, they should diminish within a few hours after treatment
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Who is not a good candidate?Poor candidacy includes patients who are pregnant, or patients with poorly controlled diabetes, active herpes/cold sores in treatment area, any condition causing a suppressed immune system (active cancer, autoimmune disease, use of autoimmune medications), active cystic acne, open skin wounds, skin infections, sun burn, or other active skin condition in the treatment area. Current or recent (within 6 months) use of Accutane®, extremely dry/cracked skin, or allergy to steel lead to poor candidacy. Neurotoxins and fillers can be used 2 weeks prior to or 2 weeks after your CIT procedure
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How long does it take?About 60 minutes. If numbing and PRF used treatment time may be longer
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How many treatments will I need?Depends to skin quality and treatment goals. Many people see great results in as little as one treatment. Optimal results require 3-6 treatments spaced one month apart then, 1-2 treatments per year for maintenance. Number of treatments can be further discussed and determined with provider at time of consultation
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Is there anything I do to prepare for treatment?If you are on blood thinners such as Aspirin or high dose no-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) you should stop them 10 days prior to treatment. If you have a history of cold sores you may need pre-treatment with antiviral medications. Also discontinue topical vitamin A/Retinoids or other skin irritants 5 days prior to treatment
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Is it painful?There is some discomfort depending on needle depth used. Numbing cream can be used although it is not always necessary
Still have questions? Call us and we would be happy to discuss your concerns!
References
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Gupta AK, Cole J, Deutsch DP, Everts PA, Niedbalski RP, Panchaprateep R, Rinaldi F, Rose PT, Sinclair R, Vogel JE, Welter RJ, Zufelt MD, Puig CJ. Platelet-Rich Plasma as a Treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia. Dermatol Surg. 2019 Oct;45(10):1262-1273. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001894. PMID: 30882509.
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Gentile P, Garcovich S, Bielli A, Scioli MG, Orlandi A, Cervelli V. The Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Regrowth: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Stem Cells Transl Med. 2015;4(11):1317-1323. doi:10.5966/sctm.2015-0107
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