- Dr Suhail Alam
- Reading Time: 5 Mins
PRP hair treatment is one of the most innovative and modern hair loss treatments available in the UK. It has many benefits and advantages as a natural hair growth treatment.
While the treatment is generally considered as extremely safe, there are potential side effects that all patients considering this treatment should be aware of. Below we will discuss the benefits and the side effects from a medical standpoint with a conclusion from a professional hair loss doctor.
Key Takeaways
- PRP hair treatment uses your own blood’s platelets to stimulate natural hair growth, improve hair density, and strengthen hair follicles.
- The treatment is natural and safe and can be combined with other hair regrowth treatments for enhanced results.
- While generally safe, potential side effects include minor swelling, pain, discomfort, and a small risk of infection or allergic reaction to the anaesthetic.
Table of Contents
What Is PRP Hair Treatment?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves drawing your blood and placing it into a centrifugal machine. The centrifuge separates the red and white blood cells from the plasma and platelets, which contain growth factors. This concentrated mixture is then injected into your scalp to promote hair growth and improve hair density.
To better understand the science behind this treatment, let’s take a look at how platelets work and the role they play in our body.
Platelets are a component of our blood. When we suffer an injury such as a wound or cut, platelets group together at the affected area to initiate the body’s healing process. Many studies have examined the effectiveness of PRP in various healing processes, with evidence suggesting it can significantly enhance and accelerate recovery.
When experiencing hair loss, our hair follicles often become damaged. PRP’s role in hair restoration is to help repair and reverse follicle damage, increasing blood supply and supporting hair growth. This can be particularly effective in conditions such as male pattern baldness.
The Advantages Of PRP Hair Treatments
- Can be combined with other treatments: PRP hair treatment is often combined with other hair regrowth treatments such as minoxidil and finasteride. Many patients will have maintenance sessions of this treatment to improve the results of FUE hair transplants.
- Can be used for different types of hair loss: PRP therapy can be used to promote hair growth in most types of hair loss including postpartum hair loss and androgenetic alopecia.
- Natural and safe treatment: PRP uses your own blood, making it a natural treatment option with a lower risk of allergic reactions or side effects compared to synthetic alternatives.
- Stimulates Hair Growth: PRP injections can stimulate natural hair growth by increasing the blood supply to the hair follicles and enhancing the thickness of the hair shaft.
Strengthens Hair Follicles: By promoting the repair of damaged hair follicles, PRP helps strengthen them, reducing hair thinning and hair loss.
PRP Hair Treatment Side Effects
While PRP hair treatment is a natural non-surgical method of promoting hair growth, it does not come without any risks. While these risks and side effects are rare and often considered minor. These risks should not be overlooked.
- Swelling: Immediately after your treatment it is common to have swelling in your scalp, this will usually subside in the next couple of days.
- Pain and discomfort: It is usual to experience some pain and discomfort in the immediate 1-2 days after your PRP hair loss treatment.
- Infection: This is not a usual PRP hair treatment side effect, and only happens in a small amount of cases where proper sterilisation and hygiene is not followed.
- Scalp scarring: PRP injections can cause minor scars around the injection site. These scars are usually very small and will fade over time.
- Allergic reactions: Patients can in rare cases be allergic to the anaesthetic used prior to your PRP treatment.
Aftercare For PRP Hair Treatment
After getting your PRP hair treatment, it’s crucial to follow proper aftercare to ensure you get the best results and avoid any potential side effects. First off, don’t wash your hair for at least 24 hours post-procedure. Also, steer clear of any hair products like gels or hairspray during this time.
Keep your scalp away from direct sunlight or heat sources, such as hair dryers or saunas, for at least 24 hours. And take it easy on the physical activity—avoid strenuous exercise for a few days.
Staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet can help promote hair growth. Make sure to follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider, which might include using medicated shampoos or taking certain supplements to support hair growth.
By sticking to these aftercare tips, you can make the most out of your PRP hair treatment and keep any potential risks or side effects to a minimum.
Book Your PRP Hair Treatment
Ready to give your hair the boost it needs? Book your PRP hair treatment at Aventus Clinic today. Our team of experts is here to help you achieve the fuller, healthier hair you deserve.
We offer free online hair assessments, where you can speak to our hair loss expert Dr Suhail Alam who will advise on the best treatment plan for your specific condition.
Book Your Free Online Hair Loss Assessment
Get expert advice and a custom treatment plan from our hair loss specialist.
About the Author
Dr Suhail Alam
Dr Alam is devoted to providing high quality, holistic, patient centred care designed to make patients look and feel their best. He has a specialist interest in Hair Restoration Surgery and Regenerative Medicine.