Platelet-rich plasma is composed of two key elements: plasma, or the liquid part of the blood, and the platelets, a type of blood cell that plays an important role in the body’s healing process. To create a platelet-rich plasma, the nurse takes a blood sample from the patient and places it in a device called a centrifuge. This device rapidly rotates the sample, separating the other blood components from the platelets and concentrating them in plasma. PRP injections are used to treat a wide range of issues, from musculoskeletal pain and injury to cosmetic procedures. After creating platelet-rich plasma from a patient blood sample, this solution is injected into the targeted area.

The mechanism of the PRP injections is not, at this point in time, fully understood. Some studies show that increased concentration of growth factors in the platelet-rich plasma can stimulate or accelerate the healing process, by shortening wound healing time, reducing pain and even promoting hair growth.

PRP injections can be effective in treating hair loss, both to prevent it and to promote the growth of new hair.