Advances in Research on Concentrated Growth Factor Applications for Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment: A Review

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common and progressive form of hair loss that significantly impacts patients' physical appearance and psychological well-being. While current treatment options such as minoxidil and finasteride are widely used, they are often associated with limited efficacy and adverse effects. In recent years, concentrated growth factor (CGF), a third-generation autologous platelet concentrate, has emerged as a promising biomaterial in the field of regenerative medicine. This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent research on use of CGF in treatment of AGA. Specifically, we discuss CGF's preparation methods, biological mechanisms of action, and clinical outcomes, both as a monotherapy and in combination with traditional therapies. Mechanistically, CGF exerts multifaceted effects through the regulation of growth factors, activation of stem-like cells, modulation of inflammation and immune response, and reduction of oxidative stress in the scalp microenvironment. Clinical studies have demonstrated its ability to enhance hair regrowth, improve hair density, and reduce adverse effects, with a favorable safety profile. Despite encouraging results, limitations such as small sample sizes and lack of standardized assessment criteria remain. This review provides theoretical support for future investigations and demonstrates the need for high-quality clinical trials to validate CGF's efficacy and safety in AGA treatment.