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Updated: May 29, 2026
Mechanical and Controlled PRP Injections in Patients Affected by Androgenetic Alopecia
Published on: January 27, 2018
Enhanced effect of platelet-rich plasma containing a new carrier on hair growth
Megumi Takikawa1, Shinichiro Nakamura, Shingo Nakamura
1Department of Plastic Surgery, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan.
Background:
Treatments for alopecia are in high demand, but not all are safe and reliable. Dalteparin and protamine microparticles (D/P MPs) can effectively carry growth factors (GFs) in platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Objective:
To identify the effects of PRP-containing D/P MPs (PRP&D/P MPs) on hair growth.
Methods & Materials:
Participants were 26 volunteers with thin hair who received five local treatments of 3 mL of PRP&D/P MPs (13 participants) or PRP and saline (control, 13 participants) at 2- to 3-week intervals and were evaluated for 12 weeks. Injected areas comprised frontal or parietal sites with lanugo-like hair. Experimental and control areas were photographed. Consenting participants underwent biopsies for histologic examination.
Results:
D/P MPs bind to various GFs contained in PRP. Significant differences were seen in hair cross-section but not in hair numbers in PRP and PRP&D/P MP injections. The addition of D/P MPs to PRP resulted in significant stimulation in hair cross-section. Microscopic findings showed thickened epithelium, proliferation of collagen fibers and fibroblasts, and increased vessels around follicles.
Conclusion:
PRP&D/P MPs and PRP facilitated hair growth but D/P MPs provided additional hair growth. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.
