title: Platelet-Rich Plasma in Androgenic Alopecia: Indications, Technique, and Potential Benefits.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to provide an overview of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injected into the scalp for the management of androgenic alopecia.
  
  
  METHODS
  A literature review was performed to evaluate the benefits of PRP in androgenic alopecia.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Hair restoration has been increasing. PRP's main components of platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor have the potential to stimulate hard and soft tissue wound healing. In general, PRP showed a benefit on patients with androgenic alopecia, including increased hair density and quality. Currently, different PRP preparations are being used with no standard technique.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This review found beneficial effects of PRP on androgenic alopecia. However, more rigorous study designs, including larger samples, quantitative measurements of effect, and longer follow-up periods, are needed to solidify the utility of PRP for treating patients with androgenic alopecia.
authors.affiliation: Medical Director, Beau Visage Med Spa; Greater Waterbury Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons; Assistant Clinical Professor, University of Connecticut, Cheshire, CT. Electronic address: eferneini@yahoo.com.
authors.forename: Elie M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Ferneini
authors.affiliation: Resident, General Practice Residency, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Hartford, CT.
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Beauvais
authors.affiliation: Esthetician, Beau Visage Med Spa, Cheshire, CT.
authors.forename: Concetta
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Castiglione
authors.affiliation: Esthetic Nurse, Beau Visage Med Spa, Cheshire, CT.
authors.forename: Moniek V
authors.initials: MV
authors.lastname: Ferneini
mesh_terms: D000505:Alopecia / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D053657:Platelet-Rich Plasma; D012535:Scalp