Biological products used for hair growth and rejuvenation include PRP (Platelet-rich plasma), Exosomes and Growth Factor Concentrates. These products fall under Autologous cell therapy which involves the removal of a person’s own cells, some level of manipulation or processing of the cells, and then re-introducing them to the scalp. Following harvesting and processing, the products are usually either injected into the scalp or superficially applied to the scalp in conjunction with microneedling. Biological products are still in the investigation stage to assess their beneficial effects for improved hair growth and hair rejuvenation.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a blood-derived biological product taken from a person’s own blood and injected into the scalp where hair growth and healing are desired. PRP is thought to deliver greater than normal concentrations of cytokines and growth factors that may promote hair growth and mediate the inflammatory process. PRP is considered to be a drug under the Canada Food and Drug Act and was approved for in-office use by licensed medical providers.

Exosomes are the latest advance in regenerative therapies. The product is manufactured by using donor tissue stem cells. Placental tissue is one example of a donor tissue that is currently being used to derive stem cells. 

Stem cells are thought to release tiny fluid-filled sacs called exosomes. Some small studies have found that these exosomes contain bioactive cargo which has been found to reduce inflammation and promote the rejuvenation of the scalp tissue and hair. The exosomes typically contain a combination of growth factors, cytokines, collagens and RNA that in combination, appear to outperform individually harvested components.

Growth Factor Concentrates are another promising biological therapy that is manufactured by the harvesting of growth factors and cytokines from stem cells. Small studies indicate that growth factors may promote the rejuvenation of the scalp tissues and hair.

At De Haar Hair Restoration we are following the industry closely and we are offering some of the above mentioned therapies to interested clients.