As the suggested molecular mechanism of PRP (platelet-rich-plama) and micro-needling is very similar in terms of inducing growth factors, one can hypothesise that micro-needling can be a non-invasive alternative to PRP.
Our previous ‘Insights’ article on PRP highlighted what Platelet-rich Plasma is. As PRP treatment involves injecting platelet rich plasma (derived from ones blood) in their dermal regions of the scalp, it can be painful and costly. Although the exact mechanism of PRP has not been fully resolved, strong evidence suggests that PRP increases concentrations of growth factors, cytokines, and proteins, thereby modulating inflammatory pathways and tissue repair. http://localhost/platelet-rich-plasma-prp/
Micro-needling (or collagen induction therapy) is a process of using a specific pen-needling device (with needles at the correct depth) to create microscopic punctures into the dermis. These punctures result in a local inflammatory response and causes various growth factors to be released in response to the inflammation. During the healing process, the platelets release growth factors like platelet derived growth factor and epithelial growth factor. It is postulated that these then act on the hair follicle to stimulate growth.
Additionally, micro-needling has another theoretical benefit of improved transdermal drug delivery. This was shown in a study done (on a hairless rat model) and published in the International Journal of Dermatology in 2012. This transdermal drug delivery does not happen with the PRP process or when using derma rollers.
In PRP preparation, the concentrations of these growth factors may be greater than those compared to those induced by micro-needling. However, by using the right topical hair loss drugs to the correct micro-needling process, the treatment outcomes may be increased.
Like PRP, micro-needling is not recommended for every person. Patients on certain medication like blood thinners or diabetics should avoid these procedures. Not all types of hair loss can be treated or suitable for both these treatments.
At the Hairology Centre, we offer a course of 30 minute micro-needling treatment in conjunction with our unique hair growth solutions to enhance outcomes of treating androgenetic hair loss for men and women.