What to expect during your first PRP hair loss treatment ?

You’ve done your research, weighed your options, and decided: PRP hair loss treatment is worth trying. Now comes the question that’s probably keeping you up at night: what actually happens during that first appointment?

The good news? It’s far less intimidating than you might imagine. No major surgery, no lengthy recovery, and definitely no need to clear your calendar for weeks. Your first PRP session at Kensington International Clinic is straightforward, designed around your comfort, and based on proven scientific principles. Here’s exactly what you can expect from start to finish.

PRP in 60 seconds: the science made simple

PRP therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that harnesses your body’s natural healing abilities to stimulate hair growth. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting this platelet-rich plasma into areas of your scalp experiencing thinning or hair loss. These concentrated platelets contain essential growth factors that reactivate dormant hair follicles and promote healthier, thicker hair growth.

One week before: your prep checklist

Your journey begins well before you arrive at the clinic. Proper preparation is crucial for optimal results and a smooth treatment experience.

  • Stop these medications: Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, as these can interfere with the natural inflammatory response that PRP therapy relies on. You may continue taking Tylenol (acetaminophen) if needed for pain relief.
  • Pause these supplements: Avoid blood-thinning supplements like vitamin E, fish oil, garlic supplements, and ginkgo biloba for at least one week before treatment. Minimize alcohol consumption and avoid smoking, as these substances can impair your body’s healing response and affect treatment outcomes.
  • The day before: Increase your water intake by drinking at least six additional glasses of water throughout the day. This extra hydration makes the blood draw process easier and more comfortable.
  • Morning of treatment: Shower and wash your hair thoroughly with your regular shampoo, but avoid applying any styling products, gels, or sprays.

First things first: your assessment

Your first visit will begin with a comprehensive consultation where our medical professionals will examine your scalp and hair condition. This assessment helps determine the extent of hair loss, identify the most suitable treatment areas, and establish realistic expectations for your results. During this consultation, your medical history will be reviewed to ensure PRP therapy is appropriate for you.

The doctor will explain the treatment process, discuss the number of sessions you’ll need based on your particular situation, and answer any questions you may have. This is also an excellent opportunity to discuss your hair loss concerns and treatment goals.

The PRP process in 4 simple steps

As illustrated in the clinic’s visuals, PRP treatment follows a methodical and proven process:

  1. Blood collection: A sample of your blood is drawn, similar to a routine blood test.
  2. Centrifugation: Your blood is processed in a specialized centrifuge that separates the different components to isolate the platelet-rich plasma.
  3. PRP injection: The concentrated plasma, rich in growth factors, is carefully injected into the areas of your scalp requiring treatment.
  4. Recovery: Your natural healing process begins immediately, stimulated by the concentrated growth factors.

The process harnesses the natural composition of your blood, which contains approximately 55% plasma, 4% white blood cells and platelets, and 41% red blood cells. It’s this platelet-rich fraction that contains the essential growth factors for stimulating hair follicle regeneration.

What happens during treatment

Once you’re ready to proceed, the actual PRP treatment will begin. The session is designed to be convenient and fit into your schedule.

  • Step 1: Blood draw, a small blood sample (similar to a routine blood test) will be drawn from your arm.
  • Step 2: Processing, this blood is then placed in a centrifuge machine that spins at high speed to separate the different components. This process isolates the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of your blood, concentrating the beneficial growth factors.
  • Step 3: Prep, while your blood is being processed, your scalp will be cleansed and prepared for treatment. A topical anesthetic may be applied to ensure your comfort during the injection phase.
  • Step 4: Injection, the prepared PRP is then carefully injected into the predetermined areas of your scalp using fine needles. Most patients describe the sensation as minimal discomfort, similar to small pinpricks.

Right after: what’s normal (and what’s not)

Throughout the injection process, you’ll be comfortably positioned, and the medical team will ensure you’re at ease. The injections are administered systematically across the treatment area, targeting hair follicles that have become dormant or weakened.

Immediately after the treatment, you may notice some redness and mild swelling at the injection sites, which is completely normal and indicates that the PRP is beginning to work. Some patients experience a tingling sensation on their scalp, which is actually a positive sign of the healing process beginning.

The next few days: your recovery

Recovery from PRP hair loss treatment is remarkably quick, with most patients returning to their normal activities promptly. Your medical team will provide you with personalized care instructions to optimize your results.

General recovery guidelines:

  • Follow the specific hair washing recommendations given by your practitioner
  • Avoid intense activities and excessive sun exposure as advised
  • Respect recommendations regarding hair products and chemical treatments
  • Maintain good hydration to support the natural healing process

Understanding PRP hair loss treatment benefits

PRP hair loss treatment provides a natural approach to hair restoration by using your body’s own healing mechanisms. Unlike surgical procedures, this treatment stimulates existing follicles and promotes healthier hair growth without the need for invasive interventions.

Timeline: when will you see results?

While PRP hair loss treatment offers excellent results for many patients, it’s important to understand that hair restoration is a gradual process. Results vary from person to person, and your doctor will give you a realistic estimate based on your particular situation during your consultation.

Your first PRP hair loss treatment session marks the beginning of your hair restoration journey. By following pre-treatment instructions, understanding the process, and adhering to post-care guidelines, you’re setting yourself up for the best possible outcome.

At Kensington International Clinic, our experienced team is committed to supporting you throughout this transformative process, helping you regain not just your hair, but your confidence as well.

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