Platelet-rich plasma solution could regrow hair

A platelet-rich plasma (PRP) solution may be an effective treatment option for alopecia areata (AA), according to study findings.

Researchers at the University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy, and colleagues randomly assigned 45 patients with AA to receive intralesional injections of PRP, triamcinolone acetonide (TrA), or placebo on one half of their scalp, according to the abstract. The other half of the scalp was untreated. Each patient received three treatments, monthly. Researchers then assessed hair regrowth, hair dystrophy, burning and itching, as well as cell proliferation in each patient for one year.

The researchers noted a significant increase in cell proliferation markers and hair regrowth, as well as decreased hair dystrophy and burning and itching in patients treated with PRP compared with TrA or placebo, according to the abstract. There were no reported side effects.

“This pilot study, which is the first to investigate the effects of PRP on AA, suggests that PRP may serve as a safe and effective treatment option in AA, and calls for more extensive controlled studies with this method,” the researchers wrote.

The findings were published online in the British Journal of Dermatology.