Both hair fillers and exosomes are relatively new treatments in the field of hair loss therapy, but they work in quite different ways:
Hair fillers:
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What they are: Hair fillers are injectable gels or solutions containing hyaluronic acid, collagen, or other substances that add volume and fullness to the scalp. They're mainly used to:
- Treat thinning hair: By plumping up the scalp, they can create the illusion of thicker hair.
- Stimulate hair growth: Some fillers contain growth factors or other ingredients that might stimulate hair follicles and promote new hair growth.
- Improve hair quality: They can hydrate the scalp and improve hair texture.
- Procedure: Injected directly into the scalp.
- Results: Visible immediately for volume effects, potential hair growth results within 3-6 months.
- Duration: Effects usually last 6-12 months.
- Side effects: Minor side effects like swelling, redness, and bruising are common but usually temporary.
Exosomes:
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What they are: Exosomes are tiny vesicles derived from stem cells that carry messages and proteins between cells. In hair loss therapy, exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells are used to:
- Activate existing hair follicles: They stimulate dormant hair follicles to re-enter the growth phase.
- Improve hair quality: They can increase hair thickness, density, and color.
- Reduce inflammation: They may help reduce inflammation in the scalp, which can contribute to hair loss.
- Procedure: Injected directly into the scalp.
- Results: Takes 3-6 months to see noticeable hair growth improvements.
- Duration: Studies on long-term effectiveness are limited, but effects may last up to a year.
- Side effects: Relatively rare, but may include minor injection site reactions and temporary numbness.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Hair Fillers | Exosomes |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism of action | Adds volume, potentially stimulates hair growth | Stimulates existing hair follicles, improves hair quality, reduces inflammation |
| Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, collagen, growth factors | Mesenchymal stem cell exosomes |
| Procedure | Injections | Injections |
| Results | Immediate volume, hair growth within 3-6 months | Hair growth improvements in 3-6 months |
| Duration | 6-12 months | Up to 1 year (studies limited) |
| Side effects | Swelling, redness, bruising | Minor injection site reactions, temporary numbness |
Which one is right for you?
The best option for you depends on your individual needs and goals. Consult with our dermatologist / hair loss specialist to discuss your hair loss pattern and medical history. We can help you determine which treatment, hair fillers, exosomes, or even other options like minoxidil or hair transplantation, might be the best fit for you.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Exosome therapy is generally a newer and more expensive treatment than hair fillers.
- Both hair fillers and exosomes are considered safe, but there is a risk of side effects with any injection.
- Neither hair fillers nor exosomes are a cure for hair loss, and additional treatments may be needed to maintain results.