Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections vs Topical Minoxidil in Adults with Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia is a condition mediated by androgen (specifically DHT) and genetic factors that causes hair loss and thinning of the scalp in men and women. The hairs’ anagen phase is shortened and terminal hairs transition into vellus hairs. Although this condition is considered cosmetic in nature, it has psychologically detrimental effects. There are medical treatments available to prevent further hair loss but there is currently no cure. Topical minoxidil (Rogaine) is the most commonly used medication for androgenetic alopecia that stops hair loss and, in some cases, helps hair regrowth. However, it can cause an allergic contact dermatitis, local irritation and hypertrichosis. Not to mention, its efficacy relies on the patient’s compliance as it must be applied daily for the rest of the patient’s life span. Platelet-rich plasma injections for AGA is a treatment that is becoming more widespread as a safe, non-allergic treatment method with little/mild to no side effects with many research studies assessing and comparing its efficacy