• What is Platelet rich Plasma (PRP)?

Platelet rich plasma is a new, promising treatment which is rapidly becoming popular world wide among celebrities. Known as the Vampire lift, this treatment is most sought after during the Oscars or red carpet events to give the skin a fresh and plump appearance.

• How does PRP therapy help?

Platelets are cells designed to initiate the process of healing. Platelets contain a powerhouse of growth factors which are critical to recruit the stem cells in any healing process, in fact, the platelets are some of the first cells which the body uses to start repair. PRP by nature contains concentrated platelets and helps to rejuvenate the skin, hair or other soft tissue area where it is used. This helps to jumpstart the natural rejuvenation process.

• How is the treatment administered?

A small sample of your blood is drawn (like for a blood test) into a sterile testtube. This tube is then centrifuged, in order to separate the blood into its cellular components. The separated plasma containing the platelets is then delivered into the treatment area with the help of microinjections or microneedling process.

• How often should I get this treatment done?

PRP treatments are recommended about once in a month to once in a couple of months. Usually a set of three to six treatments are advised depending on the condition being treated.

• How safe is the procedure?

As your own blood is being used, this is a safe treatment, without much risk of allergies or untoward reactions. However, as it is an injectable treatment, be sure to choose a doctor who is an expert at delivery of injectables.

• Who can be helped by PRP?

PRP has been widely used to treat skin ageing, especially to improve texture (open pores, wrinkles) and tone (pigmentation). It is a fantastic add on treatment for improving the appearance of acne scars.

A special interest in now developed in PRP therapy after studies have shown improvement in hair thickness and hair rejuvenation in patients with hair loss.

• Who is not suitable for PRP?

Though PRP has significant advantages, everybody cannot be benefitted with it. You may not be a suitable candidate for PRP if you have advanced hair loss, significant medical conditions like diabetes or collagen vascular disease. However, your doctor is the best person to advise you on the same.

• I have persistent hair loss for the last 1 year, can PRP help me?

Persistent hair loss for more than 1 year duration needs complete evaluation by the expert dermatologist. You may need to have some screening blood tests following which the doctor will design a personalised treatment module for you. And yes, PRP may form the backbone of the treatment as well. Talk to Dr. Rasya Dixit to know more about PRP therapy.