platelet-rich plasma versus topical 5% minoxidil in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A comparative observational study.

Background:Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of patterned hair loss in both men and women and has a significant psychosocial impact. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained attention as a regenerative treatment, while topical 5% Minoxidil remains the conventional first-line therapy. Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of PRP therapy versus topical 5% Minoxidil in patients with androgenetic alopecia over 12 weeks. Methods: This comparative observational study included 50 patients with androgenetic alopecia, allocated into two groups: PRP (n = 25) and topical 5% Minoxidil (n = 25). PRP was administered through four intradermal sessions at three-week intervals, while Minoxidil was applied twice daily for 12 weeks. Outcomes assessed were change in hair density (hairs/cm²), patient satisfaction using a 5-point Likert scale, dermatologist global assessment, and adverse effects. Statistical analysis was performed, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Baseline demographic and clinical parameters were comparable between groups. At 12 weeks, the PRP group demonstrated a significantly greater increase in mean hair density (18.4 ± 4.6 hairs/cm²) compared with the Minoxidil group (10.2 ± 3.9 hairs/cm²; p < 0.01). Patient satisfaction scores were higher in the PRP group (4.1 ± 0.7) than in the Minoxidil group (3.2 ± 0.8; p < 0.01). Moderate to marked clinical improvement was observed in 68% of PRP-treated patients compared with 36% in the Minoxidil group. Adverse effects were mild and transient in both groups. Conclusion: PRP therapy showed superior improvement in hair density and patient satisfaction compared with topical 5% Minoxidil over 12 weeks, with good tolerability. Recommendations: PRP may be considered an effective therapeutic option for early to moderate androgenetic alopecia, either as monotherapy or as an adjunct to topical Minoxidil. Larger studies with longer follow-up are recommended to assess the durability of response and optimize treatment protocols.