If you’re exploring regenerative therapies for hair loss, you’ve likely come across Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and hair exosomes. Both treatments offer innovative ways to combat thinning hair and promote regrowth, but they differ in composition, effectiveness, and cost. Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you make an informed decision.
What Are PRP and Hair Exosomes?
PRP: This treatment involves extracting a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the platelet-rich plasma into your scalp. Platelets release growth factors and proteins that stimulate hair follicles, improve blood circulation, and promote tissue repair.
Hair Exosomes: These are extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells (often mesenchymal or amniotic stem cells). Unlike PRP, exosomes are lab-prepared and contain powerful signaling molecules, including growth factors, proteins, and RNA, which encourage hair follicle regeneration, reduce inflammation, and create an optimal scalp environment for hair growth.
How Do They Work?
PRP:
• Stimulates dormant hair follicles and encourages them to enter the anagen (growth) phase.
• Promotes the formation of new blood vessels to improve scalp circulation.
• Enhances collagen production to strengthen the hair structure.
Hair Exosomes:
• Deliver concentrated regenerative signals to hair follicles, promoting faster and more robust regrowth.
• Stimulate the production of new dermal papilla cells, critical for healthy hair follicles.
• Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, further enhancing scalp health.
Effectiveness
PRP:
• Best for early to moderate hair loss (e.g., androgenetic alopecia).
• Typically requires 3–4 sessions spaced over a few months to see noticeable results.
• Results last 6–12 months, with maintenance treatments recommended.
Hair Exosomes:
• Considered more potent due to their concentrated growth factors and regenerative signals.
• Often requires just 1–2 sessions for visible improvements.
• Results may last longer—12 to 18 months or more—making it a longer-term solution for hair loss.
• Shows promise in treating both early-stage and advanced hair loss, although more research is ongoing.
Procedure
PRP:
• Blood is drawn from the patient, centrifuged to isolate the PRP, and injected into the scalp.
• Entirely autologous (derived from your own body).
Hair Exosomes:
• Pre-prepared product derived from lab-cultured stem cells.
• Injected into the scalp with no need for blood extraction.
Safety and Side Effects
PRP:
• Minimal risks since it’s made from your own blood.
• Potential side effects include mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
Hair Exosomes:
• Generally safe, but the quality of exosomes depends on the manufacturing process.
• Rare side effects include mild inflammation or allergic reactions.
Cost
• PRP:
• Costs £300 per session with us at The VA Aethetics.
• Multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results.
• Hair Exosomes:
• Higher cost £450 per session
• Fewer sessions are needed, which may offset the higher initial expense.
Who Are They Best For?
• PRP:
• Ideal for patients with early-stage hair loss or mild thinning.
• A good option for those seeking a natural, cost-effective solution.
• Hair Exosomes:
• Best for individuals with more advanced hair loss or those seeking a cutting-edge, potent solution.
• Great for patients who want fewer treatments with potentially longer-lasting results.
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re just starting to experience hair loss and are looking for a proven, cost-effective solution, PRP is a great choice. However, if you’re dealing with more advanced hair loss or want to try a cutting-edge treatment with potentially faster and more dramatic results, hair exosomes could be the better option.
Both treatments can be effective, and some clinics even combine them for enhanced outcomes. Whichever you choose, ensure you consult with a qualified provider to determine the best course of action for your hair restoration journey.
Comments