Evaluating Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Scarring Alopecia: A Systematic Review

Scarring alopecia, also known as cicatricial alopecia, is a group of hair loss disorders characterized by inflammatory destruction of hair follicles, leading to hair loss and scar tissue formation. Treating scarring alopecia is challenging due to the irreversible damage caused by the inflammatory process. Consequently, early intervention targeting inflammation is crucial for improving prognosis.1 Recently, several reports have emerged supporting the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a non-conventional therapy for scarring alopecia, suggesting its potential benefits in mitigating inflammation and halting disease progression. While there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the efficacy and safety of PRP in nonscarring alopecia, such as androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and alopecia areata (AA), there remains a scarcity of evidence regarding the clinical benefits of PRP in scarring alopecias.2-7 In this study, we conducted a literature review exploring the effectiveness and safety of PRP in treating scarring alopecia. Eleven studies describing PRP treatment outcomes were identified. Overall, PRP demonstrated a positive impact, slowing disease progression with reduced signs of inflammation and no reported adverse effects. However, it is important to note that the evidence supporting the utility of PRP in scarring alopecias is currently limited to case reports. Therefore, immunomodulatory therapies should remain the mainstay therapy for scarring alopecias until further investigations are warranted. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(12):1076-1082. doi:10.36849/JDD.7813.