Key Takeaway
PRP significantly increases hair density and thickness in androgenetic alopecia, with best results using activated PRP and 3+ treatment sessions
Summary
Meta-analysis of 22 studies evaluating PRP for androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss). Assessed effects on hair density, hair diameter, and patient satisfaction across multiple treatment protocols.
Methods
- Systematic review of 22 studies (11 RCTs, 11 prospective studies)
- Total of 569 patients with androgenetic alopecia
- Outcomes: hair density (hairs/cm²), hair diameter, global photography assessment
- Treatment protocols varied: 1-6 sessions, monthly to quarterly intervals
- Subgroup analysis by activation method and number of sessions
Key Results
- Significant increase in hair density: mean +33.6 hairs/cm² (p<0.001)
- Hair diameter increased by 6.1 μm on average
- 84% of patients showed improvement on global assessment
- Better results with activated PRP vs non-activated
- Optimal protocol: 3-4 sessions at monthly intervals
- Effects maintained with quarterly maintenance sessions
- Both male and female pattern hair loss responded
Limitations
- No standardized PRP preparation protocol across studies
- Variable follow-up periods (3-12 months)
- Control groups inconsistent (saline, no treatment, or half-head)
- Long-term durability beyond 12 months poorly studied
- Optimal platelet concentration not established