How to prepare for PRP for hair loss treatment
Simple steps to make your session smoother and your plan more effective — from what to avoid, to what to bring, and how to look after your scalp on the day.
3–7 days before
- Keep hydrated (aim ~6–8 glasses water/day).
- Eat balanced meals; avoid fasting right before treatment.
- Confirm any medication questions with your clinician.
- Arrange travel if you prefer to avoid driving post-treatment.
Try to limit
- Alcohol (can increase bruising).
- High-dose omega-3, garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, turmeric supplements (may thin blood) — only if your prescriber agrees.
24 hours before
- Shampoo your hair and arrive with a clean, product-free scalp.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, saunas and steam rooms.
- Have a light meal and water pre-appointment.
- Prepare questions and bring any recent lab results if requested.
On the day
- Wear loose, dark top (easy access; minimises visible spots if any).
- Remove hair fibres/sprays, heavy oils or leave-ins.
- Arrive a few minutes early for consent and photos.
- Tell us about any recent illness, antibiotics, or changes in meds.
We’ll review your history, map target zones, take photos, and proceed with comfort measures as needed.
Bring with you
- Medication list (including supplements) and allergies.
- Previous hair treatments or diagnoses (if applicable).
- Headwear if you prefer to leave with light coverage.
Medications & contraindications
Do not stop prescribed medicines without your prescriber’s advice. We’ll discuss personalised guidance at consultation.
Common considerations
- Anticoagulants/antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin, clopidogrel): increased bruising — clinician will advise.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) pre-session: may be limited; paracetamol is often preferred if you need analgesia.
- Active scalp infection, fever, or recent antibiotics: treatment may be deferred.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: typically not treated.
If using hair actives
- Topical minoxidil: often paused the evening before/day of; restart as directed.
- Harsh acids/retinoids on scalp: pause 24–48h pre-session to reduce irritation.
- Styling heat tools: avoid on the day.
Your practitioner will tailor advice to your health status and hair plan.
Immediately after
- Avoid alcohol, saunas/steam, and vigorous exercise for 24–48h.
- No tight headwear for the rest of the day.
- Expect mild tenderness/redness at injection points.
First wash & products
- Gentle shampoo after ~24h unless advised otherwise.
- Resume minoxidil/actives per your clinician’s timing.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants and strong menthol/camphor products for 48h.
Related reading
This guide supports—but does not replace—medical advice tailored to you. Your clinician’s instructions always take precedence.
© Santi London · Informational only; treatment provided after in-person assessment.