Understanding Hair Loss Post-Pregnancy
Hair Loss Post-Pregnancy
Excessive shedding of hair after pregnancy, which is commonly seen in new moms, doesn’t occur immediately after childbirth. It takes a few months and usually peaks at around four months after pregnancy.
Hair loss after pregnancy is usually temporary. Your hair will most likely grow back in the next 12 months. However, in some women, the hair may not grow back as it should. There will be a need for a hair loss solution if your hair isn’t growing back as it should. It’s essential to seek effective solutions like the PRP hair loss solution.
Continue reading to learn more about PRP hair loss solutions after pregnancy.
What is Telogen Effluvium?
Acute vs. Chronic Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium is a reversible condition in which excessive hair shedding occurs after a stressful experience or certain body changes. There are different types of Telogen Effluvium which are the acute and chronic type.
In acute Telogen Effluvium, there is the presence of a sudden stressor or shock to the body. As many as 70% of the scalp hairs are shed in large numbers about two months after an individual experiences stress.
Chronic Telogen Effluvium often occurs in women with very thick hair in their teenage years. It affects the whole scalp and usually affects women who are aged 30 to 60. The condition starts suddenly and can fluctuate for years.
The Dynamics of the Hair Growth Cycle
Phases of Hair Growth
- Anagen
This is the hair growth cycle’s growth phase, the most active stage. The cells in the lower part of a hair follicle divide rapidly to form new hair, pushing the hair out of your follicle and elongating your hair shafts. A hair follicle can remain in this stage for up to four years. Around 80% to 90% of your hair follicles are in the anagen stage at a given time.
- Catagen
This is the transitional part of your hair growth cycle. The lower portion of a hair follicle regresses, and the hair growth stops. Around 5% of all hairs are in the catagen stage at a given time.
- Telogen
This is the resting stage of your hair growth cycle. The hair follicle is completely inactive, and there’s a white bulb of keratin at the root, which keeps the hair in the follicle until it sheds. Around 5% of all hairs are also in this stage at a given time.
How Pregnancy Affects the Hair Cycle
Pregnancy is a physiologic stress and can result in certain body changes. Stress in the body can cause up to 70% of hair in the anagen stage to enter the telogen phase, which causes hair loss.
Increased numbers of hair follicles remain in the anagen phase for longer periods during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and then return to the telogen phase within 3-6 months after delivery with a sudden drop in hormone levels. This results in excessive shedding of hair.
PRP: The Science Explained
Origins in Medicine
The concept of PRP began in the 1970s in the field of hematology, and the term was coined so that hematologists could describe blood that had a higher platelet count than normal blood. Platelet-rich blood was mainly used for blood transfusions for individuals who suffered from low platelet count.
Then, in the 1980s and 1990s, PRP began to be used during surgical procedures because it has many properties that help with wound repair, minimize inflammation, and increase new cell growth.
The most common procedures in which it was used were maxillofacial surgery, cosmetic surgery, and skin grafting. Research has also shown that PRP can effectively reduce scarring, which is now used to improve burn scars, post-surgery scars, and acne scarring.
Plasma rich in platelets has also been shown to be pivotal in hair restoration.
Mechanism of Action in Hair Restoration
PRP works to stimulate hair growth through different mechanisms. One is by improving follicle vascularization, which encourages new hair growth. PRP also contains growth factors that help to prolong the duration that hair cells use in the anagen phase. It can also induce faster transitioning from the telogen to the anagen phase.
Application of PRP for Acute Telogen Effluvium
PRP’s Role in Revitalizing Hair Follicles
PRP therapy utilizes the body’s natural healing and regeneration abilities to revitalize hair follicles. The growth factors and proteins found in the platelets-rich plasma encourage cell growth, tissue repair, and the formation of new blood vessels.
When the PRP is injected into the scalp, it stimulates dormant hair follicles and prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle. It can also enhance the thickness and density of hair shafts on the head.
PRP for Acute Telogen Effluvium
Effectiveness on Post-Pregnancy Hair Loss
PRP therapy has proven to be effective for most patients with hair loss. From patients dealing with alopecia areata and pattern baldness to thinning eyebrows and even postpartum hair loss, PRP therapy has provided excellent regrowth results.
PRP is combined with bioactive proteins and injected into the scalp of mothers experiencing hair loss to promote thicker, healthier hair growth.
Procedure Breakdown: PRP Treatment
From Blood Draw to Scalp Rejuvenation
This is a simple three-step procedure that involves a blood draw, preparation of the PRP, and the injection of the PRP into the scalp.
First, blood is drawn from a vein in the patient’s arm into a vial.
The blood is then processed using a centrifuge machine.
The platelet-rich plasma is collected and placed in a syringe.
Next, the scalp is cleansed.
Finally, the platelet-rich plasma is injected into the scalp.
The Role of Platelets in Hair Regrowth
PRP was being used in dermatology after researchers found that high concentrations of platelets in plasma cells help promote hair growth. Platelets do this by prolonging the growing phase of the hair cycle, and the growth factors released from platelets may act on stem cells in the follicles, stimulating the development of new follicles and promoting blood supply to the area.
Benefits and Advantages of PRP for Hair Restoration
Benefits of PRP for Hair Restoration
Speed of Recovery
PRP for hair restoration post-pregnancy has many benefits and advantages, including its speed of recovery. The procedure doesn’t require an extensive recovery period or downtime.
Sustainability of Results
The growth of healthy and thick hair achieved with this procedure isn’t the one that’s lost a few months after the treatment. The results are sustainable, and you enjoy your new head full of hair without worrying about hair loss.
Naturalness of the Procedure
The procedure is a natural treatment that doesn’t involve the use of synthetic ingredients. Your blood is taken, and its constituent platelets contain natural growth factors that help with hair growth is injected into your scalp.
Possible Risks and Concerns
PRP treatment for hair loss is generally a safe procedure. Minor side effects that may occur include:
- Swelling.
- Infections.
- Bruising.
- Scarring
- Allergic reaction to the anesthesia used to numb the scalp.
Who Should Avoid PRP?
PRP is not recommended for anyone who has one of the following medical conditions: Hepatitis C, HIV or AIDS, skin cancer on the scalp, blood cancer of any type, or cardiovascular disease.
Cost-Effectiveness: Investment vs. Outcome
PRP Treatment Cost Breakdown
PRP treatment cost isn’t usually covered by insurance. It’s an out-of-pocket treatment. A session of PRP hair loss solution could cost you anywhere from $350 to $600. It usually takes about 3-4 treatment sessions to achieve desirable results.
Long-term Financial Considerations
The effective results of the PRP treatment make it a cost-effective procedure. While most people get results with a few sessions, others may need more sessions to achieve optimal results, all of which add up to the overall cost of the procedure in the long term.
Alternative Solutions for Acute Telogen Effluvium
Traditional Methods
- Identify and treat the stressor
Acute Telogen Effluvium is mainly caused by a stressor on yours. Once you identify and address the cause, most acute cases will resolve without treatment within six months and a year.
- Medications and supplements
Another traditional solution for acute Telogen Effluvium is taking over-the-counter medications such as minoxidil and supplements such as Biotin or iron.
- Laser light therapy
Laser light therapy can also treat Acute Telogen Effluvium. Lasers can target your scalp to improve your hair’s length, thickness, and texture.
Emerging Therapies
- MicroRNA
This promising new treatment leads to T developing hormones and hormones in different individuals.
Patient Journeys: Real-life Testimonials and Experiences
Heather’s hair started falling out after the birth of her second child, and it wouldn’t grow back the same as before. Her partner suggested PRP to her, and she consulted a professional. Heather started PRP hair restoration therapy and, in a few months, has seen dramatic improvements in her hair’s length, thickness, and texture!
“For my postnatal hair loss, I have started PRP treatments. I have had my first treatment out of four, and since I last had PRP injections, the technology has only improved. I find that the new PRP device is more effective at reducing any discomfort during the procedure. I am excited about the results I’m currently seeing!”
Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance
Ensuring Long-lasting Results
To ensure the longevity of the results of your PRP treatment, you need to adopt some care and maintenance results. This includes brushing your hair gently, eating healthy, and using quality shampoos on wash days.
Complementary Treatments
Once you’ve achieved your desired results, you should get complementary treatments periodically to maintain the results.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP and Telogen Effluvium
How long does telogen effluvium last?
Telogen Effluvium can last anywhere from 3-6 months.
What is the fastest way to cure telogen effluvium?
The fastest way to cure Telogen Effluvium is to identify and address the condition’s cause immediately.
Does telogen effluvium just stop?
Yes, it can just stop it. It’s an acute case of Telogen Effluvium.
What is the main cause of telogen effluvium?
The main cause is stress. It could be emotional and psychological stress.
Does hair regrow after telogen effluvium?
Yes, your hair will grow back after Telogen Effluvium.
How do you test for telogen effluvium?
Scalp biopsy is the most useful test to confirm the diagnosis of Telogen Effluvium.
Does exercise help telogen effluvium?
No, exercise cannot help the condition. It could even cause it.
Can PRP help with telogen effluvium?
Yes. PRP is an effective treatment for Telogen Effluvium.
Can PRP cause telogen effluvium?
PRP can sometimes cause a telogen effluvium in rare cases.
Can PRP bring back lost hair?
Yes, it can help with hair restoration.
Does PRP stop hair thinning?
Platelet-rich plasma therapy can also help with thinning hair and allow you to obtain thicker and more voluminous hair.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
If you’re suffering from postpartum hair loss, the best solution is PRP. PRP for hair loss is generally safe and minimally invasive. It is ideal for almost everyone except certain people dealing with some health conditions. Consult with a Medspa professional to help you in making an informed decision.
