An Overview of the Biology of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Microneedling as Potential Treatments for Alopecia Areata

Platelet-rich plasma and microneedling have been investigated recently as potential therapeutic options for the treatment of hair disorders. Evidence from laboratory studies indicates that these treatments enhance growth factor production that in turn facilitates hair follicle development and cycling. Several small studies and case reports have presented encouraging findings regarding the use of these treatments for alopecia areata. Future investigations will be needed to validate these therapeutic techniques for patients with alopecia areata and further refine which subtypes of the disease these methods are best indicated for. Platelet-rich plasma and microneedling have been investigated recently as potential therapeutic options for the treatment of hair disorders. Evidence from laboratory studies indicates that these treatments enhance growth factor production that in turn facilitates hair follicle development and cycling. Several small studies and case reports have presented encouraging findings regarding the use of these treatments for alopecia areata. Future investigations will be needed to validate these therapeutic techniques for patients with alopecia areata and further refine which subtypes of the disease these methods are best indicated for.