How to Prepare for a PRP Hair Session

Good preparation for PRP is simple: eat a proper meal, drink plenty of water, arrive with clean hair and no styling products, and review your medications and supplements with your doctor well ahead of time. Small steps like these make the blood draw easier, lower the chance of bruising, and help the day go smoothly.

One to two weeks before

The most important preparation happens well before the appointment. Your physician should already have assessed the cause of your hair loss and confirmed that PRP is a reasonable option. If anything has changed since then, such as a new diagnosis, new medication, recent illness or pregnancy, let the clinic know before the day.

This is also the time to sort out medications. Some common products can affect platelets or increase bruising, including:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen
• Acetylsalicylic acid taken for pain
• Supplements such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic and turmeric in high doses

Anti-inflammatory drugs are of particular interest because they may blunt the platelet activity that PRP relies on. Clinicians often suggest avoiding them for several days before and after treatment, but the exact timing varies, so follow the instructions you are given.

Prescribed medications are different. If you take a blood thinner, a heart medication or daily acetylsalicylic acid prescribed by your doctor, do not stop it on your own. Speak with your prescribing physician. In many cases, continuing the medication is the right call, and the PRP plan is adjusted or reconsidered instead.

Scalp care in the days before

Your scalp should be calm and healthy on treatment day. A few days beforehand:

• Avoid hair colouring, bleaching, perms, relaxers and other chemical treatments, which can irritate the skin
• Skip new scalp products, so any reaction is not confused with treatment effects
• Avoid sunburn on the scalp, especially along a part line or thinning crown
• Let the clinic know about cold sores, rashes, flaking or sores, as treatment may need to be postponed

If you are planning a colour appointment, many clinics suggest booking it a week or so before PRP, or waiting several days afterwards. You can read more about PRP scalp aftercare to plan around that.

Some clinicians also suggest limiting alcohol for a day or two before treatment, since it can thin the blood slightly and may increase bruising. If you smoke, this is a reasonable time to cut back; smoking affects blood flow to the skin and healing.

The night before and the morning of

Wash your hair. Shampoo the night before or that morning. Clean hair lets the scalp be disinfected properly and makes it easier to see the treatment area.

Leave out styling products. Gels, sprays, waxes, dry shampoo, hair fibres and leave-in oils can interfere with cleaning the scalp. Arrive with hair as plain as possible. If you use topical minoxidil, ask whether to skip your dose that morning.

Eat a normal meal. A breakfast or lunch with some protein and complex carbohydrates in the hours before helps keep your blood sugar steady and lowers the chance of feeling faint during the blood draw.

Drink water. Being well hydrated makes veins easier to find. Aim for several glasses of water in the day before and the morning of, unless you have been told to limit fluids for a medical reason. Go easy on caffeine if it makes you jittery.

Get some sleep. Being rested helps with comfort and makes the appointment feel less draining.

What to bring

• A current list of all medications, supplements and topical products
• Recent blood test results if you have them, such as a complete blood count, iron or thyroid tests
• A hat or loose hood for the trip home, if you would prefer to cover your scalp
• Headphones or something to occupy you while the sample is prepared
• A light snack and water, especially if you tend to feel lightheaded

Wear a top that opens at the front or has loose sleeves, so the blood draw is easy and you do not have to pull anything tight over your freshly treated scalp.

Planning the rest of your day

Most people go back to regular, light activities after PRP. Still, it is sensible to avoid booking a heavy workout, swimming, a sauna or an important photo session for the same day. Your scalp may be tender, a little swollen or pink, and you will likely be advised to hold off washing your hair for several hours.

If you are nervous about needles or have fainted during blood draws in the past, consider arranging a ride home. Mention your concerns when you arrive; lying down for the draw and taking your time afterwards can help.

Mental preparation and expectations

PRP is usually given as a series, and changes are gradual. Nothing will look different when you leave, and some people notice a temporary increase in shedding before any improvement. Knowing this in advance prevents disappointment. Baseline photos are usually taken at the first visit, and they are the most reliable way to judge progress later. For a walk-through of the visit itself, see what to expect at a PRP hair session.

Frequently asked questions

Should I take a painkiller before I come in?

Ask first. Acetaminophen is often considered acceptable, while anti-inflammatory painkillers are usually avoided around PRP. The clinic can tell you what is suitable for you.

Can I come in with a cold?

If you have a fever or feel unwell, it is usually better to reschedule. Call ahead so the team can advise you.

Do I need to cut my hair first?

No. Your usual length is fine. The physician parts the hair to reach the scalp.

Is it all right to wear makeup or sunscreen on my face?

Yes. Facial products are not a concern; the focus is keeping the scalp itself clean and product-free.

If you have questions about preparing for PRP, or whether it suits your type of hair loss, the team at HealthPark Medical Aesthetics can go over your history and instructions with you at a consultation before any treatment is booked.