Can PRP Help Male Pattern Hair Loss When Minoxidil and Finasteride Aren’t Enough?
Male pattern hair loss can continue to progress even after years of treatment. A 43-year-old man recently visited our hair loss clinic with moderate, gradual scalp thinning that had worsened over several years.
He had previously tried topical minoxidil, but developed a reaction, and experienced unwanted side effects from oral finasteride (Propecia). He was currently using oral minoxidil and topical finasteride but wanted additional options to improve his hair restoration plan.
Diagnosing Male Pattern Hair Loss
Based on his scalp examination and history, his hair loss was consistent with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss).
Androgenetic alopecia is a genetically influenced condition that gradually causes hair follicles to become smaller, particularly around the crown, frontal scalp, and temples.
Because it is progressive, treatment often focuses on preserving existing follicles while improving hair density when possible.
Adding PRP to His Hair Loss Treatment
We discussed several options, including supplements, low-level laser therapy, PRP hair restoration, and Alma TED.
The patient elected to continue his oral minoxidil and topical finasteride while adding PRP.
During his first treatment, his blood was drawn and processed to concentrate the platelet-rich plasma. A total of 7 cc of PRP was injected into the thinning areas of his scalp. He tolerated the procedure well without complications.
Baseline photographs were also taken to help objectively track his progress over time.
Why Combine PRP With Hair Loss Medication?
PRP and prescription medications can play different roles in treating androgenetic alopecia. For appropriately selected patients, combining treatments may provide a more comprehensive approach than relying on a single therapy.
Hair restoration is highly individualized, especially when a patient cannot tolerate standard medications or continues to experience thinning despite treatment.
Looking for Hair Loss Treatment in Houston or Katy, TX?
If your hair continues to thin despite minoxidil or finasteride, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine whether PRP or another hair restoration treatment may be appropriate.
At Reena Jogi, MD / Village Dermatology, patients in Houston and Katy, Texas can receive personalized treatment for male pattern hair loss, including medical therapy, PRP, and other nonsurgical hair restoration options.
Individual results vary. Treatment recommendations depend on your diagnosis, medical history, and clinical examination.
