Author: Dr. Reejamol Abraham

GFC stands for growth factor concentrate is a concentrated preparation of different growth factors derived from an individual’s blood. GFC is a novel treatment used to address different kind of hair loss.

Blood platelets are a storehouse of numerous growth factors that aid the growth, migration and differentiation of stem cells. The growth factors used in GFC therapy are

1. PDGF/platelet derived growth factors these stimulate angiogenesis and vascularisation thus encouraging hair growth.
2. Epidermal growth factors – these increase epithelial and mesenchyme cell mitogenesis which encourage hair cell regeneration and proliferation.
3. VEGF/vascular endothelial growth factors these stimulate perifollicular angiogenesis in hair thus increasing the size of perifollicular wastes at the time of hair growth.
4. Insulin like growth factor-1 this promotes angiogenesis , boosts hair growth.

Benefits of GFC

GFC is useful for

• Reducing hair fall and revitalising hair follicles.
• Promoting thicker and more voluminous hair growth.
• Increasing hair thickness, count and volume.
• Reversing initial stages of androgenetic alopecia.
• Treatment of alopecia areata.
• Suitable for both men and women suffering from hair fall.

Procedure:

• Patients should refrain from using narcotic drugs, aspirin and other blood thinners for 2-3 days beforehand.
• It taking an antibiotic undergo treatment only after finishing the course.
• A Topical anesthetic will be applied 30-40 minutes before the treatment.
• About 10 ml of peripheral blood is drawn and transferred to GFC tubes this sample is processed and the prepared GFC injection is then superficially administered into the areas of hair thinning, While the cells get activated a tingling sensation is experienced by the patient.
• These sessions are repeated at an interval of 3-4 weeks.

Aftercare:

• Do not use any hair product for at least 6 hours after treatment.
• Avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol for at least 3 days.
• Avoid intake of Aspirin / anticoagulants for 3 days post procedure.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Apply ice packs/cold compress to relieve any swelling at the injection site.
• Avoid swimming,head, sun exposure and strenuous exercise for at least 2 days.

Side Effects:

Generally GFC is safe and has minimal risks. Potential side effects can include

• Mild bruising at injection sites.
• Itching at the treatment area.
• Mild swelling and pain lasting for 2-5 days.

Hence GFC is a safe and effective procedure that promotes tissue regeneration using body‘s natural healing properties thus helping in treatment of hair fall.