We're the #1 PRP Hair Treatment provider in Kitchener, Waterloo & Cambridge.
We're excited to share that another one of our amazing female clients recently visited the Kitchener location of Elev8 Aesthetic Medicine for a PRP hair treatment and she was absolutely thrilled with the progress so far. Even though we're only a few treatments in, She saw incredible improvements in her hair’s thickness and health (you can see her transformation in the picture below!). It's also worth mentioning that her confidence has been growing with each successive visit.
If you're considering PRP hair treatment, here are 8 essential tips from me to help you prepare and achieve the best possible results:
Table of Contents
What is PRP Hair Treatment?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) hair treatment is a cutting-edge procedure that uses your own blood’s plasma, rich in platelets, to stimulate hair growth and improve hair density. The process involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the PRP directly into your scalp where hair growth is needed.
PRP is becoming increasingly popular for its natural approach to hair restoration and its ability to deliver noticeable results without surgery. At Elev8 Aesthetic Medicine Inc, we’ve seen phenomenal outcomes for our clients, boosting both their hair and their confidence.
1. Stay Hydrated for Optimal PRP Hair Treatment Results
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most important steps you can take before your PRP treatment. When you’re well-hydrated, your blood plasma is more easily separated from your red blood cells during the centrifugation process, which is key to obtaining a higher concentration of platelets.
Why is this important? Platelets contain growth factors that are vital for stimulating hair follicles and promoting new hair growth. If your body is dehydrated, it can make the blood draw more challenging, and the quality of the PRP could be compromised.
I recommend increasing your water intake in the days leading up to your treatment. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. If you're unsure whether you're drinking enough water, a good rule of thumb is to check the color of your urine—it should be light yellow. Darker urine may indicate dehydration.
Remember, hydration doesn't just start the day before your treatment. It’s something you should focus on consistently, especially in the 48 hours leading up to your appointment. Avoid dehydrating drinks like coffee and alcohol, and focus on water, herbal teas, and hydrating foods like cucumbers and watermelon.
2. Avoid Blood Thinners Before PRP Hair Treatment
For about a week before your treatment, try to avoid taking any blood-thinning medications or supplements, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil. This helps minimize bruising and ensures better results. As always, we will consult with your Dr to make sure all of your practitioners are on the same page with respect to your PRP Hair Restoration treatment plan.
3. Skip Alcohol and Caffeine Prior to PRP
I suggest steering clear of alcohol and caffeine for 24-48 hours before your appointment. These can dehydrate you and negatively affect blood circulation, which we want to be optimal for the treatment.
4. Wash Your Hair Before PRP Hair Treatment
Please make sure to wash your hair and scalp thoroughly the night before or the morning of your treatment. This ensures your scalp is clean and free from products or oils, making the treatment more effective.
5. Eat a Healthy Meal Before Your PRP Hair Treatment
What you eat before your PRP treatment can make a significant difference in how you feel during and after the procedure. Eating a balanced meal before your treatment helps stabilize your blood sugar levels, which is crucial for your comfort during the procedure. Low blood sugar can lead to feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting, especially when combined with the stress or anxiety that some people feel before a medical procedure.
What should you eat? Focus on a meal that includes complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats. For example, a meal with whole-grain toast, avocado, and a boiled egg provides a good balance of nutrients. The complex carbs will give you sustained energy, the protein will help keep you full, and the healthy fats will stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Avoid heavy, greasy foods or foods high in sugar before your treatment. These can make you feel sluggish or cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, which can negatively affect your experience. If your appointment is in the afternoon, consider having a light snack an hour or two before you come in. A piece of fruit with some nuts or yogurt can keep you energized and comfortable throughout the procedure.
6. Share Your Medical History with Your PRP Specialist (That's US!)
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, so it's important that you share any medical conditions, allergies, or recent changes in your health with your injector before your PRP treatment. This information helps us tailor the procedure to your specific needs and ensures the best possible outcome.
Why is this important? PRP is a safe and effective treatment for most people, but certain medical conditions or medications can affect the procedure. For example, if you have a history of bleeding disorders, or are taking medications that affect blood clotting, I may need to adjust your treatment plan. Similarly, if you have allergies or sensitivities, it’s important to know so I can avoid using any products that might cause a reaction.
If you've recently been ill or have experienced changes in your health, even if they seem unrelated to your hair or scalp, please let us know. This includes any new medications or supplements you’re taking, recent surgeries, or other medical treatments.
I also encourage you to ask any questions or express any concerns you might have about the procedure. Understanding your medical history allows me to provide the safest and most effective care, and it gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re in good hands.
7. Dress Comfortably for PRP Hair Treatment
Comfort is key when it comes to your PRP treatment. The procedure itself is relatively quick, but we want you to feel relaxed and at ease throughout the entire process.
What should you wear? I suggest wearing something comfortable and loose-fitting, especially around the neck and shoulders. A shirt with a wide or open neck, or a button-down shirt, is ideal. This not only helps you stay comfortable but also makes it easier for us to access your scalp during the treatment.
You might also want to bring a hat or scarf to wear afterward. Although there’s no significant downtime, some clients prefer to cover their hair after the treatment, especially if they need to go out or return to work immediately. A soft, loose-fitting hat or scarf can protect your scalp and keep you feeling comfortable as you go about your day.
8. Plan for Post-PRP Hair Treatment Aftercare
Planning for post-treatment care is essential for achieving the best results from your PRP hair treatment. While the procedure itself is straightforward, what you do afterward can significantly impact the effectiveness of the treatment and your overall experience.
Immediate Aftercare: After your PRP treatment, I recommend taking it easy for the rest of the day. Avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours, as this allows the PRP to fully penetrate your scalp and begin the healing and regeneration process. If you need to wash your hair after 24 hours, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid irritating your scalp.
Avoid Heat and Sun Exposure: For the first few days after your treatment, try to avoid exposing your scalp to direct sunlight or extreme heat. This includes avoiding hot showers, saunas, and intense exercise that might cause you to sweat excessively. Heat and sweat can interfere with the PRP’s ability to stimulate hair growth, so it’s best to keep your scalp cool and dry.
Follow-up Appointments: Depending on your specific needs and the results we’re aiming for, I may recommend a series of PRP treatments over several months. Be sure to schedule and attend these follow-up appointments to maximize the benefits of your treatment. PRP works gradually, and consistent treatment is key to achieving and maintaining optimal results.
Patience is Key: Finally, remember that hair growth is a gradual process. It can take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvements in hair density and thickness. Trust the process, follow the aftercare instructions, and be patient as your hair responds to the treatment. The results are worth the wait!
Bonus: Explore the Science Behind PRP Hair Treatment
Understanding the science behind PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment can help you feel more confident and informed about the procedure. PRP has been widely studied and is backed by scientific research that highlights its effectiveness in promoting hair growth.
Here are some key resources and articles that dive deeper into the science and efficacy of PRP for hair restoration:
Here are some key resources and articles that dive deeper into the science and efficacy of PRP for hair restoration:
Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery (2014):Title: "The Role of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Restoration: Myth or an Effective Tool?"Summary: This article provides an in-depth review of the use of PRP in hair restoration, examining clinical studies and the biological mechanisms that make PRP an effective treatment.
Dermatologic Surgery (2019):Title: "A Randomized Controlled Trial of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Androgenic Alopecia"Summary: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of PRP in treating androgenic alopecia (a common form of hair loss) in both men and women, showing significant improvements in hair density and thickness.
International Journal of Trichology (2020):Title: "Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Androgenic Alopecia: A Review of the Literature"Summary: This review article summarizes various studies on PRP for androgenic alopecia, discussing the benefits, limitations, and overall effectiveness of the treatment.
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2021):Title: "Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Alopecia: A Review of the Literature and Clinical Applications"Summary: This comprehensive review highlights the clinical applications of PRP for different types of hair loss, including its safety profile and patient satisfaction rates.
Harvard Health Publishing (2022):Title: "PRP Therapy: What to Expect and How It Works"Summary: This article provides a general overview of PRP therapy, including how it's used in various medical fields and its potential benefits for hair restoration.
These resources provide a deeper understanding of how PRP works, the science behind it, and its proven effectiveness in treating hair loss. If you’re interested in learning more, I encourage you to explore these articles and studies. They offer valuable insights that can help you feel more confident in your decision to undergo PRP treatment.
Ready to Transform Your Hair?
If you're ready to experience the benefits of PRP hair treatment, book a consultation with Elev8 Aesthetic Medicine Inc today! We're the #1 PRP Provider in Kitchener, Waterloo & Cambridge.
Let's work together to achieve your hair restoration goals.
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