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Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for face rejuvenation and hair growth

As part of the Aesthetic Medicine Digital Series, Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, MD Skin, Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Trasi’s Clinic & La Piel, recently conducted a live webinar on ‘Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for face rejuvenation and hair growth’. After completing her post-graduation (MD) in Dermatology, Venerology and Leprology, Dr Shefali Trasi-Nerurkar joined Trasi’s Clinic as the third generation dermatologist in Trasi family.
In this webinar, Dr Shefali focused on introduction to PRP; mechanism of action; PRP pre-requisites; technique of preparation; face rejuvenation; hair growth; and her experience with PRP.

Below are some key takeaways from her session:

• PRP is blood plasma concentrate of autologous platelets.
• How does PRP work? There are various growth factors in the platelets: Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF); vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); transforming growth factor; epithelial growth factor (EGF); and fibroblast growth factor (FGF).
• PRP systems are not equal and thoughtful consideration is important for selecting a PRP system that is appropriate to the intended application.
• The regenerative potential of PRP depends on: Levels of secretory proteins released on activation, and technique of PRP production.
• Pre-treatment protocol: Avoid Aspirin and other NSAIDS for seven days prior to treatment. Eat well before the procedure. Pre-treatment photograph and consent form is essential each time. And, keep the patient well hydrated during the procedure.
• Post treatment instructions: Avoid exposure to sun after a skin rejuvenation session. Compulsory use of sunscreen. Avoid the use of make-up for two days. Rest for some time as the patient feels heaviness after the hair treatment. Avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for few hours post the procedure.
• Laboratory centrifuges as well as commercial kits are available in the market for PRP production.
• Applications of PRP for skin rejuvenation: Fine wrinkles around the eye and forehead; nasolabial grooves; wrinkles on the lips; acne scars; neck rejuvenation; dark circles under the eyes; loose, saggy skin; facial pigmentation; and striae distensae.
• Applications of PRP for hair disorders: Androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata.
• Various methods used for skin rejuvenation: Direct intradermal injections; mesotheraphy; topical application of PRP solution under occlusion.
• Skin rejuvenation: Three to four sessions should be spaced at one to two months intervals.
• The patient should be reassessed after six months and if required, repeat the procedure.
• In case of acne scars: use topical retinoids; pigmentation: use topical depigmenting agents; antiaging: use moisturisers.
• Activated PRP stimulates proliferation and differentiation of stem cells in the hair follicle bulge area.
• PRP is one of the most promising treatments in dermatology and cosmetic medicine. However, due to lack of adequate protocols, the effectiveness of the results vary.
• It is advisable to standardise protocols in each clinic depending on the platelet yield, cost effectiveness and easy to adapt procedures.
• Utmost care and sterility should be maintained at all times.

Had a network glitch? Missed parts of the discussion? CLICK HERE for the recorded webinar.