Hair follicles operate based on a set cycle that determines when and for long they produce hair. The hair growth cycle consists of four stages: the growing phase, the transition phase, the resting phase and the shedding phase. Each stage of the cycle can last for a varying amount of time, but an entire cycle typically takes between two to seven years, with the growth phase lasting the longest. Each hair follicle operates on a different growing schedule, so any hair lost on a daily basis is naturally replaced by incoming hair.

Genetic hair loss, also known as male or female pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, occurs when the natural growth cycle becomes disrupted and hair no longer grows back after follicles go through the shedding process. While experts are still performing research to determine the exact cause of genetic hair loss, the androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) has been highlighted as the main culprit. DHT inhibits hair growth in an unknown manner and causes hair follicles to miniaturize, producing thinner strands of hair until production ceases altogether.

PRP treatments for hair loss works to restore nutrients and growth factors to hair follicles negatively affected by the presence of DHT. By providing a direct source of nutrients, PRP can reactivate and rejuvenate aging follicles that have begun the miniaturization process. While PRP Therapy cannot cure hair loss or stop it completely, it can slow down DHT’s effects and regrow hair to lessen its impact.