What Should I Avoid After PRP Hair Treatment?

Changes to the hair are bound to happen to some degree to all of us. While some of us may be lucky enough to get away with gray hairs, others experience more significant changes to the hair’s thickness and density. When thinning hair and hair loss become problematic, one of the best nonsurgical treatments to invest in is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) hair treatments. Understanding what to avoid after PRP hair treatment is crucial to ensure optimal results. What is PRP?

PRP is a regenerative treatment that employs plasma, blood cells, platelets, and other necessary growth and healing functions. PRP injections for hair loss and hair thinning rely upon plasma derived from your blood to help heal an injured area, resulting in a decreased hair growth cycle.

During hair loss in both men and women, the hair follicles become inactive across the scalp or in certain areas. Thinning hair and hair falling out are indications that the hair follicles are lacking essential nutrients. Treating these deficient areas on the scalp with PRP allows for positive changes in the hair growth process and to address problems before the hair follicles die off.

How to Care for Your Hair Immediately After PRP

When it comes to taking care of your hair after treatment, it’s imperative to understand what to avoid after PRP hair treatment.

Steer clear of harsh chemicals and hair products.

After PRP, the scalp is sensitive and can easily be irritated by certain ingredients. Using hair products that contain abrasive and harsh chemicals can irritate and inflame the scalp and negatively impact the healing process. Instead, only use gentle, natural hair care products for the first 24 hours to keep the scalp healthy and heal optimally.

Don’t workout and sweat.

The sweat produced on the scalp right after a PRP treatment can potentially irritate the area. If you must work out, make sure to stick to low-impact exercises that won’t induce sweat production.

Avoid going swimming.

Both pools and ocean water can be harsh on your hair and scalp after PRP, leading to potential dryness and irritation. Avoid chlorinated pools and salt water for at least one week.

Don’t expose your hair and scalp to the sun.

The sun’s harsh UV rays are damaging and can cause unnecessary inflammation and irritation on the scalp. When outside, keep the scalp well-protected with a hat and scalp sunscreen.

Don’t smoke.

Smoking while your scalp is recovering from PRP can affect blood circulation and compromise your results.

Skip dyeing your hair and other chemical hair treatments.

Chemical processes like coloring and bleaching hair can be extremely harsh on the scalp and hair, even causing irritation and swelling. It’s recommended to wait about one week before undergoing any hair treatment.

How to Care for Your Hair After PRP

While there are plenty of things that you’ll want to educate yourself on what to avoid after PRP hair treatment, there’s also a handful of hair tips to follow to achieve better and longer-lasting results.

When washing your hair, the best methods are gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, lukewarm water, and a very light massage technique, which helps stimulate proper blood flow. This way, you can cleanse the scalp without irritating it.

Keeping your scalp and body well-hydrated and nourished is also essential. Make sure to drink plenty of water, follow a nutrient-rich diet, and take the proper vitamins and supplements to help impart healthy hair growth. Managing stress levels and staying on top of yearly PRP treatment sessions will help you to maintain your results.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I wash my hair after PRP?

It’s best to wait until the day after your PRP treatment to wash your hair with shampoo. To make the most of the treatment, you’ll want to let the PRP formula penetrate the scalp for as long as possible.

What is the downtime like after a PRP hair loss treatment?

Little to no downtime is involved, as the treatment involves a quick blood draw and a few injections into the scalp. Temporary soreness and redness are normal and can last for two to three days.

Can I drink alcohol after my procedure? 

We recommend avoiding alcohol for at least three days before and after your procedure so that it does not interfere with the healing process.

What should I take if there is pain?

You can take Tylenol for any pain or discomfort you experience, but you should avoid inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen.