Platelet rich plasma therapy is an advanced form of treatment that involves collection of the patient's own blood and preparation of a concentrate of platelets in plasma.  The plasma containing high concentration of platelets is subsequently used for several indications, hairloss, hair thinning and balding being the commonest!

What are the potential uses of PRP? 

With respect to skin and hair, the following uses are there: 

1. PRP can be used to stimulate rate of hair growth, increase hair thickness as well as stimulate new hair growth in both male and female patterned baldness and few other types of alopecia/ balding.  Latest research has shown development of new hair in patients treated with PRP

2. Acne scars - significant improvement of acne scars can be noted in patients  treated with application or injection of PRP along with other scar treatment modalities

3. Pigmentation and wrinkles around  eyes - PRP injections can significantly reduce the pigmentation in under eye area along with improving the wrinkling, skin texture and skin ageing 

4. Anti- ageing -PRP injections are known to improve results of treatment when combined with other anti ageing treatments

5. Scars and stretch marks - PRP has a promising role in their treatment too. 

6. Wound healing and ulcers - Faster healing occurs when PRP is applied or injected along ulcers/ wounds.  

What are the side effects that I can expect with PRP treatment? Since patient's own blood is used, this procedure has minimal side effects or adverse reactions as against use of external agents.  However, since this is a specialized form of treatment- it is of prime importance that the therapy is performed and administered by qualified doctors.  Side effects like mild pain due to injection, mild swelling, occasional bruising, etc may be expected.  

Is PRP a suitable choice of treatment for everyone? 

Depending on the patient's problem, the need for treatment with PRP and other associated treatment must be discussed with the treating qualified dermatologist. However, it is by and large a safe form of treatment