Which is more effective, PRP or Minoxidil?

Hair loss, thinning hair, and baldness can affect anyone, man or woman. In fact, a study performed by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery found that approximately 56 million adults in the United States alone are affected by some type of hair loss. There are many types of hair loss, from androgenic alopecia (AGA), male/female pattern hair loss, to spots of baldness, also called alopecia areata, to telogen effluvium, caused by severe stress. The key to successfully treating hair loss and thinning is to identify the underlying cause of your hair loss and address it appropriately. Dr. Michele Green is an expert in hair loss and has been at the forefront of treating hair loss in NYC for over two decades. Common treatment options for thinning hair include platelet-rich plasma injections (PRP) and minoxidil.

There are many non-invasive treatment options for hair loss. Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is one of the most popular hair loss treatments offered in Dr. Green’s office. It is performed by collecting a sample of the patient’s blood, spinning it in the centrifuge to separate the plasma from the red blood cells, and injecting the plasma, which is full of growth factors and proteins, into the scalp to improve the health of hair follicles. Minoxidil (Rogaine), another non-invasive treatment option, is an FDA-approved over-the-counter topical for hair loss. Minoxidil comes both as a solution and as a foam base, which needs to be applied to the scalp daily at bedtime, and it converts hairs into the anagen phase of the hair cycle, which is when hair follicles start new hair growth.

Dr. Michele Green was one of the leading dermatologists in NYC for innovative hair loss treatment and is consistently rated one of the best dermatologists in New York by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine for her evaluation, management, and treatment of the different types of alopecia in men and women. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to suit their particular needs and goals best. Based in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, she is an internationally recognized expert for cosmetic and medical hair loss issues. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private dermatology office, you’ll have the opportunity to thoroughly investigate your concerns and goals with her to develop a personalized hair loss treatment plan.

Is PRP or minoxidil better?

PRP, platelet-rich plasma, is an advanced stem cell technology that is collected by drawing the patient’s blood and centrifuging it to separate the plasma from red blood cells. Within the plasma, the platelet concentration is three times the normal blood value and contains many growth factors that stimulate the regenerative cells around the hair follicles. The PRP is then injected into different areas of the scalp to promote hair growth and revitalization. PRP is a great solution for treating hair loss in both men and women, especially when hair transplant surgery is not a viable option. PRP injections can stimulate new hair growth in those who suffer from androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata.

On the other hand, minoxidil, a topical medication, stimulates new hair growth and helps maintain current hair thinning or shedding by restoring inactive hair follicles and elongating the growth phase of the hair growth cycle. The activation of the hair follicles increases hair growth while using the medication; however, if you stop using minoxidil, your hair loss will revert to the baseline prior to starting minoxidil therapy. Oral minoxidil is another form of this medication that many patients prefer over topical treatment. Many patients even combine oral and topical minoxidil with PPR to incrase the amount of hair growth and its efficacy.

A study from the International Journal of Trichology performed a clinical trial examining the effects of PRP and minoxidil in the treatment of alopecia areata and found a significant difference between patients in the PRP group and the minoxidil group. While both groups showed significant improvement compared to the placebo group, the resulting hair growth was different. The study found a statistically significant increase in fully developed hairs in the PRP group. Meanwhile, the minoxidil group had a significant increase in short vellus hairs, which are short, fine, immature hairs. This randomized controlled trial is one of many clinical trials that indicate the efficacy of PRP and minoxidil. Additionally, multiple meta-analyses of existing studies have shown similar results to the study from the International Journal of Trichology.

Based on current evidence, the efficacy of PRP is greater than that of topical minoxidil for the treatment of all types of hair loss; however, minoxidil is still an effective option. At your initial consultation with Dr. Green, you will be able to discuss all hair treatment options, including PRP injections, Finasteride, Keravive hair treatments, and minoxidil. Dr. Green will use her expertise to provide the best medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment available for hair loss.

What is the success rate of PRP or minoxidil?

The success of either treatment option depends on the individual, especially the severity and underlying causes of the hair loss. The most common evaluation performed for hair loss is the hair pull test, where the dermatologist pulls on the hair to see how easily the hair comes out of the scalp. In the clinical trials testing the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma compared to the efficacy of minoxidil, the researchers found that PRP outperformed minoxidil t in the hair pull test, hair growth questionnaire, and patient satisfaction score. Many patients have seen great success after receiving platelet-rich plasma therapy in Dr. Green’s office. Due to the many growth factors within the platelet-rich plasma, many patients report increased hair density in addition to hair regrowth. Some have experienced great results with topical Rogaine as well. Minoxidil can have different efficacies for patients because its efficacy varies with the consistency of application. When minoxidil is not used every night, the efficacy of the medication decreases. Ultimately, the success rate of any treatment option depends on the individual’s goals and desires. During a hair loss consultation with Dr. Green, you can determine which treatment option will be most effective for you.

What is better than PRP for hair loss?

Depending on the severity of hair loss and the underlying reason for hair loss, there are few treatment options with better efficacy. The treatment that can be considered better is hair transplant. During a hair transplant, a surgeon collects hair-bearing skin from one part of the scalp and implants these pieces of skin onto bald or thinning areas of the scalp or areas of trauma. While a hair transplant will reverse hair loss, it is a procedure with a long healing process. It will take around 9-12 months to see the full effects of a hair transplant. Even after hair transplant surgery, the patient must continue other therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma therapy, to prevent the hair loss from reverting. Because of this, Dr. Green recommends patients determine the best non-surgical treatment for patients before considering surgery. Ultimately, due to the ease of the procedure, the lack of downtime and side effects, and the consistent and long-lasting results, Dr. Green always recommends PRP to her patients for the treatment of AGA and any non-scarring hair loss.

Is there a better treatment than minoxidil?

Yes, there can be better treatment options than minoxidil for you. However, it depends on the underlying causes of your hair loss. Topical minoxidil is an over-the-counter treatment for hair loss, so it is a common, easy-to-use medication that promotes hair regrowth. Because you need to apply it nightly to the scalp, some patients struggle to use the medication consistently and do not always see improvement from baseline. Depending on the needs and goals of your hair loss, there may be better options, including PRP or oral medications. The best way to determine if minoxidil treatment is the right option for you is to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who does an in-depth consultation to determine the underlying causes of your hair loss.

What is more powerful than minoxidil?

Topical minoxidil is an FDA-approved medication that is relatively weak compared to other options for treating androgenetic alopecia and other forms of hair loss. Dr. Green’s Hair Revitalizing Serum for Men and Women is a great alternative. The uniquely compounded topical combines minoxidil with other active ingredients for stronger combination therapy. Oral medications and procedures can also be more powerful than topical minoxidil. In terms of oral medications, there is an oral form of minoxidil that can be used for hair loss. While the effectiveness of oral minoxidil is greater than topical minoxidil, the use of oral minoxidil for hair loss is considered “off-label” and is not FDA-approved. Additionally, another oral option that is FDA-approved for the treatment of androgenic alopecia in males is Propecia, also known as finasteride. Finasteride works by lowering the DHT(dihydrotestosterone) levels in the body, slowing hair loss, and promoting new hair growth. Propecia is contraindicated for the treatment of androgenic alopecia in pre-menopausal women. Though oral medications have been shown to be effective against hair loss and can be a sufficient solution on their own for some, many patients dealing with androgenic alopecia can deal with side effects.

Procedures that are more powerful than topical minoxidil include platelet-rich plasma therapy or hair transplant surgery. By injecting PRP full of growth factors around the hair follicles, PRP therapy is a powerful treatment option that improves hair regrowth and hair thickness. Hair transplant, on the other hand, involves harvesting hair follicles from one part of the scalp and implanting them in the area of thinning. It is an effective option for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia; however, it often requires topical minoxidil or PRP therapy to be used in conjunction to maintain results.

Is PRP alone enough for hair loss?

Depending on the individual and their needs, consistent PRP therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and other forms of hair loss can be enough to reach their hair loss goals. For the most effective treatment, a typical patient will undergo four PRP therapy sessions. Further treatments will be evaluated at the end of the fourth month (after the third PRP treatment). The sessions are typically spaced 4-6 weeks apart, and Dr. Green personally performs all hair loss consultations and PRP injections. PRP hair treatment provides patients with long-lasting results, although it may not be a permanent solution to all types of hair loss. Most patients choose to engage in maintenance treatment sessions of their PRP injections following their initial series in order to ensure the best results in terms of hair.

Is minoxidil alone enough for hair loss?

Depending on the individual and their needs, daily use of minoxidil therapy may be enough for your hair goals. As an over-the-counter option, minoxidil is a simple and accessible option for the treatment of androgenic alopecia and male pattern baldness. The main effect of minoxidil includes resetting the hair cycle to the anagen phase to promote new growth and increased hair count. Still, there are more effective treatments available. However, it is possible that you do not see the results you desire and do not reach the hair count or hair diameter you desire. When over-the-counter options are not effective enough, you can meet with Dr. Green for your initial consultation; she can help you develop a hair restoration treatment plan that balances your needs and budget by performing a systematic review to determine the underlying causes of your hair loss.

Is PRP therapy for hair worth the money?

Everyone has unique concerns and goals for their hair as well as budget, so this decision should be made in conjunction with the expertise of a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green. The cost of PRP hair treatment varies depending on a number of factors, including the individual needs and goals of the patient, the experience of the treating physician, and the geographic location of the dermatology office. The number of PRP treatment sessions that are necessary for your hair loss treatment plan will affect the total cost of your treatment. Typically, patients undergo an initial series of four treatment sessions that are each scheduled one month apart. Patient satisfaction after receiving PRP therapy is very positive overall. When you meet with Dr. Green for your initial consultation, she can help you develop a hair restoration treatment plan that balances your needs and budget.

What are the disadvantages and side effects of PRP and minoxidil for hair loss?

There are a few disadvantages of PRP; it is a safe treatment with minimal side effects. Because PRP is autologous, meaning it comes from your own body, it diminishes many potential side effects of injectables. There are still some side effects, such as swelling and tenderness at or near the injection sites in the treated area. The safest way to receive treatment is from an expert board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who will ensure that all equipment is sterile, single-use, and derived from a lab with strict purification processes. Additionally, certain patients may not respond well to PRP treatment, which is why it is imperative to disclose your medical history to Dr. Green in your consultation appointment before platelet-rich plasma treatment can be initiated. Because PRP hair restoration is considered a cosmetic procedure, PRP for androgenic alopecia is not typically covered by health insurance; it’s best to contact your insurance company directly to ascertain coverage.

The main disadvantage of minoxidil is its upkeep, which requires daily application to the affected areas. Some patients may seek other treatment options because they are frustrated by the constant upkeep or inconsistent results from a topical treatment. Additionally, there are some side effects of topical minoxidil, including allergic reactions or irritation after applying the medication to the scalp. If this occurs, stop the medication and contact an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. There is a risk of increased shedding prior to improvement as your hair synchronizes into the anagen phase, which is the hair growth phase, from the telogen phase, which is the hair resting phase. Some patients experience unwanted hair growth when the topical minoxidil inadvertently comes into contact with other parts of the skin and activates hair growth. In rare cases, few patients can experience heart palpitations; if this occurs, you should immediately contact your doctor.

Can I stop minoxidil and go for PRP therapy?

Yes, you could stop minoxidil and start PRP to treat your hair loss, but you should schedule a consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City before stopping. There are many reasons you may be interested in initiating PRP therapy, including the efficacy of treatment. However, when patients discontinue any hair loss product, including minoxidil, it can cause hair loss or shedding. Prior to discontinuing minoxidil and starting PRP therapy, it is best to consult with Dr. Green to determine if this is the right treatment for you. Dr. Green can guide you in the decision-making process regarding treatment options that are available to you.

Can I switch from PRP therapy to minoxidil?

While you can always switch your treatment regimen, you should schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in New York City, before changing your current regimen. There are a multitude of reasons you might want to switch from PRP to minoxidil, including ease of access and your budget. However, the treatment of hair loss does not need to be a this-or-that decision; multiple options can be used together for the best activation of the hair cycle. Additionally, both treatment options work best when used together. Minoxidil, as a complement to PRP hair treatments, can be used long-term to sustain the results achieved from PRP.

How can I reverse baldness?

There are many treatment options to combat baldness and hair loss, including medications and procedures. The medications that can prevent hair loss include Minoxidil (Rogaine), finasteride (Propecia, Proscar), and Dutasteride. If detected early enough, these can help stop hair loss from progressing. Minoxidil is available over the counter in liquid and foam forms. It can take at least six months of treatment to see results. Finasteride and dutasteride are pills that work by interfering with the production of testosterone, which is linked to baldness. Another non-invasive option, as discussed above, is PRP treatment, which has been shown to prevent hair loss and activate hair regrowth. Additionally, hair transplants are a surgical option that some choose to pursue. Many patients who get hair transplants complement them with PRP injections and the use of topical and oral medications such as finasteride or topical minoxidil.

Ultimately, the best way to reverse baldness is to prevent it and start treatment early. If you have a family history of hair loss, balding, or hair thinning, or you notice increased hair shedding and balding, the best thing you can do is consult with expert dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who will assess your condition and explain all of your treatment options. Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans that cater to the unique concerns and aesthetic goals of her patients. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. If you are concerned with hair loss treatment options, Dr. Michele Green is an expert in NYC in hair regrowth and can create a customized skin rejuvenation treatment plan for you. Contact the office today or call 212 535 3088 to book an appointment with Dr. Michele Green.