Hair loss is a widespread concern, with many people looking for effective solutions to slow down thinning and restore growth. Dr Marisa Heyns discusses the Rigenera Hair Loss Protocol, a minimally invasive procedure that uses the body’s own regenerative cells to encourage hair regrowth. This article explains how the treatment works, its benefits, possible risks, and who might be the best candidate for it.
Hair loss is a common concern affecting a significant portion of the population, with approximately 70% of men and 40% of women experiencing androgenetic alopecia at some point in their lives. Over the last few years, the Rigenera Hair Loss Protocol has emerged as an innovative treatment designed to combat hair thinning and promote regrowth by harnessing the body’s natural regenerative capabilities.
Understanding the Rigenera Hair Loss Protocol
The Rigenera Hair Loss Protocol is a minimally invasive procedure that utilises autologous micrografting technology (AMT). This technique involves extracting a small sample of the patient’s own scalp tissue where the hair is growing optimally. These tissue samples, rich in tissue stem cells, growth factors, and other regenerative cells, are reintroduced through tiny injections into the scalp areas affected by hair loss.
The goal is to promote tissue regeneration with hair follicle restoration, enhanced scalp health, and new hair growth. This protocol is an ideal choice for patients suffering from hormonal pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic hair loss (male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss).
How the procedure works
The treatment process comprises three primary steps:
- Extraction: A local anaesthetic is injected at the donor area, typically behind the ear in an area where the hair grows abundantly. Using a punch biopsy tool, three small tissue samples are collected.
- Processing: The extracted tissue is mechanically broken down using the Rigenera device, creating a liquid rich in regenerative cells.
- Injection: This cell-rich solution is then injected into the scalp areas experiencing hair thinning or loss, where it works to rejuvenate and strengthen existing hair follicles.
Advantages of the Rigenera protocol
- Minimally invasive: The procedure involves minimal discomfort and requires only local anaesthesia, allowing patients to resume normal activities shortly afterwards.
- Autologous treatment: Utilising the patient’s own cells reduces the risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
- Single session: Unlike other treatments that may require multiple sessions, the Rigenera protocol requires one session that can be repeated every 12 to 18 months to maintain hair growth.
- High biocompatibility: The quick tissue sampling and simple processing technique, which is additive-free, allows for a much higher number of viable tissue cells and hence a better biostimulation process compared to other regenerative hair loss treatment techniques, which require lengthy processing and added ingredients that may negatively affect cell counts.
Disadvantages and considerations
- Variable results: Outcomes can vary based on individual factors such as age, extent of hair loss, and genetic predisposition.
- Not suitable for advanced hair loss: Individuals with extensive baldness or inactive hair follicles may not experience significant benefits.
Potential risks
Given its autologous nature, the Rigenera protocol has a favourable safety profile. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Infection: Though rare, there’s a minimal risk of infection at the donor or injection sites.
- Temporary discomfort: Some patients may experience mild swelling or redness in the treated areas, which typically subsides within a few days.
Ideal candidates
The Rigenera Hair Loss Protocol is most effective for individuals who:
- Are in the early stages of hair loss or hair thinning: Those experiencing mild to moderate thinning, where hair follicles are still present but dormant.
- Have androgenetic alopecia: Both men and women with pattern baldness can benefit from this treatment.
- Prefer non-surgical options: Individuals seeking alternatives to hair transplant surgeries and wanting to prevent accelerated hair loss or maintain current hair growth.
Who may not be suitable
This treatment may not be ideal for individuals who:
- Have advanced baldness: Those with large areas of complete hair loss may not see significant improvement.
- Suffer from certain medical conditions: Individuals with scalp diseases or infections should address these issues prior to considering the procedure.
- Patients suffering from systemic medical conditions, including autoimmune disease, should be assessed and treated accordingly. In these cases, the Rigenera protocol may not work effectively.
Conclusion
The Rigenera Hair Loss Protocol offers a promising solution for those seeking to combat hair thinning and promote natural regrowth through the body’s own regenerative mechanisms.
While it presents numerous advantages, including being minimally invasive and utilising autologous cells, it is essential for potential candidates to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether this treatment aligns with their specific needs and expectations.
Understanding the procedure, its benefits, limitations, and potential risks empowers patients to make informed decisions about their hair restoration journey.
Dr Marisa Heyns is a General Practitioner specialising in Aesthetic Medicine. She earned her MBChB from the University of Cape Town in 2007 and holds a prestigious European Master’s Degree in Aesthetic Medicine and Therapeutics (UNICAM, Italy). With a deep passion for regenerative skin treatments, she follows a holistic, ethical, and evidence-based approach to beauty and ageing gracefully. Her expertise includes minimally invasive procedures such as botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid fillers, as well as advanced treatments like CO₂ laser, Morpheus8 fractional radiofrequency, and thread lifting. She also specialises in regenerative therapies, including adipose-derived stem cells, skin boosters, and PRP for hair restoration and intimate wellness. Beyond clinical practice, Dr Heyns is dedicated to ongoing academic research and the training of doctors and therapists in aesthetic medicine.