What is plasma injection? And when do the results of plasma injection for hair appear?
Although hair loss has been a persistent issue for ages, solutions are constantly evolving to combat it. Many people have struggled with hair thinning and loss, leading to the development of various treatments aimed at addressing this concern, especially among women. One of the most advanced and widely sought-after treatments today is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, which has gained immense popularity as an effective solution for hair restoration.
If you're reading this, chances are PRP therapy has caught your interest. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about PRP injections for hair loss, including the key question on your mind: When do PRP results start to appear?
What are plasma injections for hair?
Platelet-rich plasma injections, or PRP, are a treatment in which blood is drawn from the person undergoing this treatment, usually from the arm, and then red and white blood cells are separated from the plasma and platelets. The body naturally produces platelet-rich plasma, which is responsible for the rapid healing of injuries. Its presence in the body and hair contributes greatly to making you look younger and enjoy better hair free of defects and problems. Thus, the goal of plasma injections for hair is to obtain the greatest possible benefits of platelet-rich plasma, as the latter carries many factors that stimulate growth, which contributes to combating hair loss and encouraging its growth again.
How is plasma injection done?
After the PRP is separated, it is injected directly into the scalp in a quick and painless procedure that aims to stimulate hair growth and activate the follicles. This procedure takes less than 30 minutes and requires only local anesthesia. Thanks to its high precision, the injections are made at half-inch intervals, focusing on areas suffering from hair loss or baldness to ensure the best results.
When do the results of plasma injections for hair appear?
The results of PRP hair treatment vary from person to person, depending on factors such as the severity of hair loss, treatment effectiveness, and individual scalp response. However, some improvement can be noticed after the first session, with gradual hair restoration over time.
- After 1 to 3 sessions: You may notice a slight improvement in hair texture and strength.
- After 3 to 6 months: More visible results appear as hair growth increases, and follicles become stronger.
- After a year of treatment: Most people achieve the best results, with noticeably thicker and healthier hair, especially when following the recommended treatment plan.
To ensure long-lasting and effective results, regular maintenance sessions as advised by a specialist are recommended.
Procedures before and after the plasma injection process for hair
In fact, there are a set of important procedures that must be carefully considered before and after plasma injections for hair to ensure the best results and reduce any potential side effects. Therefore, instead of focusing only on when the results of plasma injections will appear, it is necessary to prioritize following the necessary instructions and guidelines during the process. Here are the most important procedures that must be adhered to to obtain ideal results:
First: The procedures that must be taken into consideration before undergoing the plasma injection process for hair
Before undergoing PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to achieve the best results and minimize potential side effects. Here are the key precautions to take:
- Ensure Proper Scalp Hygiene: Maintaining a clean scalp is the first and most important step before the procedure. Wash your hair thoroughly with a suitable shampoo to remove any oils or dirt, ensuring a sanitized environment for the treatment.
- Avoid Hair Styling Products: Refrain from using hair styling products such as hair sprays, gels, or any chemical-based treatments for at least three days before the PRP session. These products can interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment and may cause unwanted side effects.
- Eat a Nutritious Meal & Stay Hydrated: It is crucial to have a healthy breakfast and drink at least 474 ml of water before the session to prevent dizziness, nausea, or even fainting, as blood extraction on an empty stomach may lead to complications.
- Avoid Smoking & Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol intake should be strictly avoided before the procedure, as they can significantly reduce platelet count in the blood, negatively affecting the success of the treatment and potentially leading to its cancellation.
After undergoing PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment, it is important to follow certain post-care instructions to ensure optimal results. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
- Avoid Hair Dye & Chemical Treatments: Refrain from coloring, perming, or chemically treating your hair for at least 72 hours after the procedure. These treatments can irritate the injection site and may lead to discomfort or complications, including scalp sensitivity and pain.
- Resume Normal Activities: Despite undergoing the treatment, you can continue with your daily routine without any major disruptions. PRP injections do not interfere with your normal activities, and unlike surgical procedures, any fatigue, drowsiness, or dizziness experienced afterward is usually a temporary side effect.
- Hair Washing Precautions: You may return to your regular hair-washing routine unless you experience redness, irritation, or pain at the injection site. In such cases, it is best to consult your doctor before proceeding with hair care.
Side Effects of PRP Hair Treatment
Although PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment is a safe and non-surgical procedure, like any medical treatment, it may have some side effects that vary from person to person. Here are the most common ones:
Pain and Discomfort in the Scalp
After the injection, you may feel mild pain or discomfort at the injection sites, but this is usually temporary and subsides within a few hours or days.
Mild Redness and Swelling
It is common to experience redness or slight swelling in the scalp after the session, but this typically disappears within 24 to 48 hours.
Itching and Scalp Irritation
Some people may experience mild itching or irritation, which is a result of cell stimulation. However, it’s important to avoid touching or scratching the scalp to prevent complications.
Minor Bruising
Since fine needles are used in the procedure, small bruises or tiny spots of bleeding may appear at the injection sites, but they usually fade quickly.
Dizziness or Nausea
In some cases, especially if a significant amount of blood is drawn, you may feel dizzy or nauseous. It’s recommended to eat a light meal and drink enough water before the session to prevent this.
Infection (Very Rare)
Although rare, improper sterilization of tools or neglecting scalp hygiene after the treatment may lead to skin infections, which is why choosing an experienced doctor is crucial.
Unsatisfactory Results
For some individuals, the results may not be as effective as expected, particularly if hair loss is genetic or in an advanced stage.
Tip: To minimize side effects and achieve the best results, always choose a qualified specialist, and carefully follow all pre- and post-treatment care instructions.
Who can benefit from plasma injections for hair?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is an effective solution for hair loss, making it a great option for individuals looking to restore hair thickness and density. Here are the groups that can benefit from this treatment:
Individuals Experiencing Hair Loss Due to Genetics or Stress
Whether hair loss is hereditary, stress-related, or caused by excessive use of harmful hair products, both men and women can turn to PRP therapy to rejuvenate their hair.
People with Androgenetic Alopecia or Other Forms of Alopecia
PRP injections help stimulate hair growth in individuals suffering from androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) or other types of alopecia.
A Wide Range of Age Groups
PRP hair treatment has been tested on individuals between the ages of 18 and 72, making it suitable for most adults experiencing hair thinning or loss.
Those Experiencing Hair Loss Due to Stress
Since stress-induced hair loss is not a permanent condition, PRP therapy can quickly reactivate hair follicles, making it an effective solution for those facing temporary hair shedding due to psychological stress.
People with Hair Thinning or Partial Baldness
Individuals dealing with thinning hair or partial bald spots can benefit from PRP injections, as they work to rejuvenate weak hair follicles and restore hair volume naturally.
Conclusion:
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections are an effective treatment for restoring hair density and stimulating hair growth. They can benefit both men and women experiencing hereditary hair loss or hair thinning due to stress. Additionally, PRP is used to treat androgenic alopecia and other forms of hair loss.
This treatment is suitable for individuals aged 18 to 72 and is particularly beneficial for those with hair thinning or partial baldness, as it works by reactivating weak hair follicles and promoting new growth. PRP injections also serve as a quick and efficient solution for stress-induced hair loss, helping to restore hair naturally.
Overall, PRP injections are a safe and natural option for individuals looking to improve their hair health and boost hair thickness.
