Platelet‐rich plasma as a novel treatment for lichen planopillaris

Treatment of lichen planopillaris (LPP) remains a significant challenge due to the irreversible damage inflicted on hair follicles combined with the low efficacy of existing treatments. We hypothesized that growth factors released by the use of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) may arrest the development of LPP. To test our hypothesis, we treated an LPP patient that has failed previous treatments with a new PRP regimen. Following PRP treatment and six months follow‐up, the patient experienced complete regression of itching and hair shedding. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of successful treatment of LPP with a PRP regimen.     

Platelet rich plasma for the management of hair loss: Better alone or in combination?

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and autologous protein‐based treatments have recently emerged as a potential therapeutic approach for hair loss‐related disorders including androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. The safety and efficacy of repeated intradermal injections of PRP has proved to promote hair growth in a number of randomized clinical trials. Biologically active proteins and cytokines released upon platelet activation have shown to induce folliculogenesis and activate the anagen growing phase of dormant bulbs. Interestingly, further studies have revealed that combining PRP with other hair loss‐related products may enhance the final performance of the treatment. These synergistic approaches include Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs such as finasteride or minoxidil, bioactive macromolecules and cell‐based therapies. Here, recent research involving alone or combined therapy with platelet‐rich plasma for the management of hair loss‐related disorders are outlined and future prospects are discussed.