Hair loss treatments can be life-changing, but the process can feel daunting if you don’t know what to expect. At Hair Loss Studios Bromley, we aim to demystify every step of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, a revolutionary solution for hair loss. Whether you’re just starting your hair restoration journey or want to learn more about PRP, this PRP Treatment Guide will help you understand exactly what happens before, during, and after your treatments.
PRP Treatment Guide: Before Your PRP Treatment, Laying the Foundation for Success
Preparation is key to ensuring the best results from your PRP treatment. Here in our PRP Treatment Guide is what you need to know before stepping into our clinic.
1. Consultation and Evaluation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with our experts. This includes:
- Scalp Assessment: We examine your scalp and hair to evaluate the extent of hair loss and determine whether PRP is the best option for you.
- Medical History Review: Conditions like alopecia areata, scalp infections, or blood disorders may affect eligibility.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Based on your needs, we outline how many sessions you’ll need, when to schedule them, and the expected results.
2. Pre-Treatment Recommendations
To optimize your results, it’s important to prepare your body for the procedure:
- Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications: Medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce platelet activity. Discontinue these (with your doctor’s approval) at least 7-10 days before treatment.
- Hydrate Well: Platelets thrive in a well-hydrated environment, so aim to drink at least 2 liters of water per day leading up to your appointment.
- Nutrition: Incorporate foods rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin C into your diet to improve your platelet quality.
During Your PRP Treatment: Step-by-Step Breakdown
Each PRP session is designed to be efficient, minimally invasive, and tailored to your comfort. A typical treatment takes around 60-90 minutes. Here’s what happens during your visit:
1. Blood Draw
A small sample of blood (around 20-30 mL) is drawn from your arm. This step is similar to a routine blood test and takes only a few minutes.
2. Centrifugation Process
The collected blood is placed in a centrifuge—a specialized machine that spins at high speed. This separates the blood into its three main components:
- Red Blood Cells (discarded in this process).
- Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP).
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): This layer, rich in growth factors, is collected for the treatment.
This concentrated PRP solution contains up to 5-10 times more platelets than normal blood, making it a powerhouse for hair follicle rejuvenation.
3. Scalp Preparation
Before the injections, we clean and sterilize the target areas of your scalp. If needed, a numbing cream or local anesthetic is applied to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
4. PRP Injections
Using a fine-gauge needle, the PRP is injected into areas of the scalp experiencing thinning or hair loss. This step requires precision and expertise, as the injections need to target the dermal papilla (the base of the hair follicle) to be effective.
5. Optional Enhancements
Some clinics, including HLS Hair Loss Studios, combine PRP with other advanced therapies such as microneedling or laser treatments. These can enhance PRP’s absorption and amplify results.
After Your PRP Treatment: Recovery and Results
1. Immediate Post-Treatment Care
You can resume most daily activities right after your treatment, but there are a few precautions to follow:
- Avoid Hair Products: Skip shampoos, sprays, or gels for at least 24 hours.
- No Intense Workouts: Vigorous exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating should be avoided for 48 hours.
- Protect Your Scalp: Minimize sun exposure and avoid heat treatments like blow-drying for 72 hours.
2. Side Effects
Most clients experience minimal side effects, such as:
- Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection sites.
- A sensation of tightness or tingling on the scalp.
These typically subside within 1-3 days.
3. When Will You See Results?
Hair restoration with PRP is not instantaneous—it requires time for your follicles to respond to the treatment. Here’s what to expect:
- First Few Weeks: You may notice less shedding as PRP starts to stabilize the hair cycle.
- 3-6 Months: New hair growth becomes visible, and existing hair feels thicker and healthier.
- 12 Months and Beyond: With consistent treatments, clients often experience maximum regrowth and density improvements.
4. Maintenance Treatments
While PRP delivers impressive results, periodic maintenance sessions (every 6-12 months) are recommended to sustain hair density and health.
Why PRP Works for Both Men and Women
One of the biggest advantages of PRP therapy is its versatility. It’s effective for both men and women, targeting:
- Men: Early-stage androgenetic alopecia or thinning hairlines.
- Women: Postpartum hair shedding, hormonal changes, or overall thinning.
Conclusion
As this PRP Treatment Guide shows, PRP therapy is a highly effective, natural, and non-invasive option for hair restoration. At Hair Loss Studios Bromley, our experienced team ensures every client receives personalized care to maximize results. If you’re ready to take the next step in your hair restoration journey, buy your session or contact us today to book your consultation.