ACell and PRP Treatment for Hair Loss

Over the past decade, ACell and autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combination treatment has become widely utilized. In large part, this is due to the wound healing and regenerative properties of both products. There is nevertheless significant debate about the extent of efficacy of both Acell and PRP.

ACell Plus PRP Combination to Grow Hair

ACell MatriStem Powder
ACell MatriStem ECM Powder.

The effectiveness of PRP treatments upon hair regrowth is especially controversial. In my next post I will discuss recent studies on this as well as my thoughts about this subject matter.

Despite these uncertainties, an ever increasing number of hair transplant surgeons now offer PRP. This is often done in combination with ACell (see the manufacturer’s website for product details). Some offer PRP to improve and speed up hair transplant results. Some also offer these injections in small lunch hour sessions in order to increase existing hair density and quality.

ACell MatriStem

Acell MatriStem UBM™ is often referred to as “porcine urinary bladder matrix.” It is derived from pig bladder cells, and has proven to be helpful in wound healing.

Wound healing and hair follicle regeneration have a number of similarities and are often researched together. ACell is a type of extracellular matrix (ECM) system and comes in powder form.

It was overhyped in the media for a few years due to its ability to regrow Lee Spievack’s finger in 2005. It turns out that this was junk science, and not some kind of “pixie dust” magic powder. A 2010 update reached the same conclusion. Sometimes, the human body can regrow a cut or damaged fingertip without the need for any external assistance.

Declining Interest

In recent years, there has been declining interest in the use of ACell and other extracellular matrix products to treat hair loss. Nevertheless, some surgeons still swear by this combination treatment for hair regrowth and regeneration.

Dr. Samuel Lam’s PRP and ACell video.

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