Abstract

Objectives: This presentation will offer an enticing overview of the research surrounding cellular regenerative therapies for hair loss as well as provide clinical direction for the safe use of regenerative medicine for practices eager to provide the benefits of cellular therapy to their patients experiencing hair loss. Introduction: The treatment options for thinning hair in men and women have been traditionally limited to a few medications, low level laser therapies, and surgery when indicated. Over the past decade, however, several cell-based therapies have emerged which continue to show great promise in both the stabilization and improvement of hair loss in the thinning scalp. These modalities include derivatives of both autologous and non-autologous source materials from a wide range of sources including, adipose derived stem cells and placental tissues and cord blood as well as off the shelf growth factors. Materials / method: A brief systemic review of the history of cell-based regenerative therapies for hair with reference to research literature and published studies beginning with the use of platelet rich plasma and then moving towards the employment of other autologous sources such as adipose derived stem cells for induction of anagen. Non autologous source material and off the shelf growth factor and serum use will also be discussed and clinical studies will be summarized. Results: Cell based regenerative therapies have been shown to be efficacious for the treatment and stabilization of many types of hair loss in men in women. The regenerative medicine landscape continues to provide many proven therapies which should be introduced into comprehensive hair restoration practice. Conclusion: Cell based regenerative therapies have been shown to be efficacious for the treatment and stabilization of many types of hair loss in men in women. Currently available cellular therapies should be employed when possible and several emerging technologies and combination therapies are likely to further enhance our ability to treat hair loss in the future.