PRP vs 5% topical Minoxidil: a dilemma in moderate male androgenetic alopecia

Epidemiological data consistently demonstrate that male androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is highly prevalent and increases in frequency with age, affecting approximately 30% of men by the age of 30 and around 50% by the age of 50, with severity typically progressing over time (Tosti, 2024). This makes male androgenetic alopecia (AGA) a common concern in aesthetic and dermatological practice. Although medically benign, it presents a direct correlation with several psychosocial burdens, significantly impacting quality of life and emotional well-being. This article assesses the comparative effectiveness of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) when compared to 5% topical minoxidil in adult men clinically diagnosed with AGA. Several articles drawing key findings from randomised controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, and controlled clinical studies were examined for outcome effectiveness on the use of PRP or/and self-application of topical Minoxidil 5% twice a day in the treatments of AGA. Most comparative studies indicate that neither treatment reliably outperforms the other when used as monotherapies, with most studies demonstrating a superior outcome when a combination therapy approach is applied to the treatment of male AGA.