When It Comes To The Choice Between GFC And PRP For Hair Loss, Doctors Will Determine Which One Is Suitable Based On The Patient's Condition

Components used in both PRP and GFC are the same, but are prepared differently. It is determined by the cause and the stage of hair loss, the activity of the follicles, the health of the scalp, the medical history of the patient, treatment goals and the protocol of the clinic.

One of the most common questions with a complex answer when it comes to dealing with hair thinning is whether to opt for PRP or GFC? Both are blood-based, minimally invasive therapies used in a hair loss clinic and both are designed to help revive follicles that are still there but are weakened. This resemblance is also the reason that the two procedures are sometimes offered as alternatives or always presented as one being superior.

It is important to note that in practice, doctors should not make a decision based on which treatment is newer, more expensive or more popular. First of all, they need to determine the type of hair loss and then determine if hair follicles are still active and if an injectable procedure is suitable at all. The research base for PRP is perhaps broader than for GFC, which is intended to provide a more targeted growth-factor-rich preparation. Further evidence of their direct comparison is emerging, and this should still be an individual decision.

What is PRP Therapy for Hair Loss?

PRP is short for platelet-rich plasma. A small amount of blood is drawn and spun in a special machine (centrifuge) to remove the plasma and enrich the platelets. The prepared plasma is then injected into certain parts of the scalp. Platelets can release signalling proteins and growth factors that are important for tissue repair, blood-vessel activity and cell communication.

PRP is typically recommended for early to moderate pattern hair loss where the follicles have shrunken, but have not completely vanished. Studies indicate that a PRP could increase the density of hair in some individuals who are suffering from hair loss of the androgenetic type, but the results are not consistent and the protocols aren't standardized. Results can vary depending on the concentration of platelets, the centrifugation technique, process of activation, depth of injection, number of treatments and other treatments.

So, what exactly is GFC Therapy for Hair Loss?

GFC is a growth factor concentrate. It also starts with a blood sample but the system also processes blood to trigger the platelets and capture a growth factor rich fraction that can be injected into the scalp. The final preparation may not have as many cells as a traditional PRP, and may be more uniform in the type of fraction produced, depending on the kit and protocol.
It is a topic that is often talked about in the early stages of pattern thinning and/or for other measures of hair support. There have been some early studies and some more recent comparisons of the effects of direct comparison that show an increase in hair count, increase in shaft diameter or improvement in the appearance as reported by the patient. But the evidence base is limited compared to that for PRP and preparation systems can vary. Hence it is more appropriate to call GFC a blood-derived solution, not an actual improvement for all patients.

What is the difference between GFC and PRP?

The most notable difference is the preparation and the material injected. Typically, PRP consists of concentrated platelets in plasma. The purpose of the GFC protocols is to remove and/or recover the growth-factor-rich solution contained in the patient's platelets. This can impact the consistency, inflammatory response, treatment experience and time to changes being observed – but it isn't a substitute for having a proper diagnosis.

The question of doctors deciding which procedure to opt for between PRP and GFC is difficult to answer.

The first steps toward a responsible choice is the diagnosis, not the syringe. The doctor might inspect the hair on the scalp, look at the pattern of thinning hair and its duration, compare the photos or trichoscopy results and look for symptoms that could indicate other possible causes. Blood tests might be recommended if a nutritional deficiency has been suspected, thyroid disease has been suspected, anemia is suspected, or a hormone imbalance is suspected.

The stage of the hair loss is a crucial aspect.The stage of the hair loss is a key element.

PRP and GFC are more useful when follicles are still there. The earlier or middle stages of androgenetic alopecia could be more susceptible to treatment than an ongoing bald spot where the follicles are no longer functioning. Both procedures do not result in the formation of new follicles. For advanced hair loss, there may be a need to discuss non-surgical and/or realistic balding expectations and/or a hair transplant.

Also, take precautions in sudden diffuse shedding. If the cause of the hair loss is a fever, childbirth, losing weight quickly, taking medicine, severe stress or severe nutritional deficiency, or attempting to correct the cause is a more important factor than deciding on PRP or GFC. If you have active alopecia areata, scarring alopecia or inflammatory scalp disease, a new medical regimen will be required.

Scalp Health and Follicle Activity

Before elective injections, the scalp should be stabilized with an inflamed, infected, or very flaky scalp. Doctors also look at miniaturisation, diversity of hair shafts and amount of visible follicular openings. These investigations can give an idea of the presence of non-functional follicles that can be supported or of limited rejuvenation capacity.

The medical history of the blood.Medical history of the blood is a study of blood health.
Since both procedures employ blood-based material, the clinician might check platelet count, coagulation disorder, use of anticoagulant drugs, infection, autoimmune disease, and other medical conditions. Those who have certain blood disorders or whose systemic disease or scalp infection is not under control may be advised to delay or not have treatment. Additionally, doctors may choose not to do elective procedures during pregnancy or breastfeeding depending on the circumstances.

Treatment Goals, Budget and Maintenance

One may wish to minimize the appearance of shedding, the other primarily density or diameter increase of part. The expected benefit, the number of sessions, any discomfort should be discussed prior to treatment, as should be the cost and willingness to return for maintenance. The newer or higher dollar alternative is not necessarily the superior choice if the diagnosis, evidence and follow-up plan do not justify this.

This is a goalsetting activity for previous Response to Treatment.

The doctor may also take into account the patient's history of response to the use of minoxidil, oral treatment, previous PRP procedures or even a prior hair transplant. Recent comparative studies indicate that the results of GFC and PRP can vary over time, but the evidence to draw a general rule at the present time is not sufficient. It is more beneficial to monitor the changes using standardised photographs and trichoscopy rather than changing treatments after a few weeks.

Is GFC Better Than PRP for Hair Loss?

But it's not as simple as just saying that GFC is always better. In a recent comparative study of male and female with PHA, both treatments were shown to enhance hair parameters. The scores were slightly better on some of the early measures for GFC, and on some of the six-month measures for PRP. The study was fairly small in size and larger trials are required to apply the findings to all types of patients.

At present, there is more published evidence available for PRP. For some patients, GFc could provide a more specific preparation and may be a more comfortable treatment experience, but will need to be weighed against protocols, cost and long-term data. In a few clinical plans it is not an either/or situation. One method may be employed initially, followed by the other method if it is going to have a measurable effect, or the two methods may be used together with the established medical therapy.

What Results and Time Line to Anticipate?

PRP and GFC are long-term treatments. The first signs of reduced shedding, or changes in density or hair calibre is seen in some people after three to six months. The initial phase of treatment typically consists of a few sessions separated by several weeks and further sessions may be recommended for assessment and/or maintenance. Schedule varies according to protocol, diagnosis and response.

Temporary tenderness, redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding or headache can occur after injections. These effects tend to be temporary; however, sterile technique and competent medical supervision are still important. Aftercare directions should be given to patients, and they should be informed whom to call if there is an increase in pain, swelling, fever or signs of infection instead of a decrease.

Preparing for Dental Work in a New Clinic

Inquire about the purpose of the treatment, the preparation system, who is giving the injections and how progress will be monitored. If the recommendation is made based on examination, a clinic should state this; if it is a recommended package, the clinic should explain that. It should also include options, possibly restrictions, and explore what might occur if the treatment doesn't have a significant effect.

When looking at providers, check for a clear distinction between diagnosis, injectable regrowth procedures and surgical restoration. While Kibo Clinics board certified doctors are one source of information about these various approaches, each recommendation will also be made on the basis of a medical evaluation, rather than a treatment label.

Bottomline

Blood-derived procedures like GFC and PRP are related procedures but not equal. PRP is rich in platelets and has a wide body of scientific evidence. GFC is interested in providing a more purified fraction with growth factors and has demonstrated promising early clinical outcomes, including direct comparison with other products. Both treatments are not necessarily effective for all types and stages of hair loss.

The most secure option is to be made after the cause has been diagnosed and proven that there are still follicles that respond, when the medical suitability has been reviewed and measurable goals have been agreed upon. Patients need to be wary of guarantees, promises of instant regrowth and pressure to opt for the most expensive. When it comes to hair restoration, the key is the diagnosis and plan, not what the procedure is called, PRP or GFC.

Note:- This article is written by Brand Desk.