If you’ve been looking into treatments for hair thinning or hair loss, you may have come across Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. This innovative procedure uses your own blood’s natural growth factors to stimulate hair follicles and encourage regrowth. But how do you know if PRP therapy is working, and what should you expect during the process? Understanding the timeline and signs of success will help you manage your expectations and track progress effectively.
How to Know if PRP Therapy Is Working
PRP therapy is a gradual process that works by delivering concentrated growth factors to the scalp, encouraging hair follicles to repair and regenerate over time. This stimulates natural regrowth while reinforcing existing strands, making hair healthier and stronger in the long run. The first sign that PRP is working is a reduction in hair shedding. If you’ve been losing excessive amounts of hair daily, you may start to notice fewer strands falling out when washing, brushing, or styling your hair.
Another key indicator is the change in your hair’s texture. Over time, PRP strengthens existing hair, making it feel thicker and healthier. If your hair has been looking fine or weak, you may start to notice improved volume and strength. You might also begin to see new hair growth, particularly in areas where your hair was thinning. These new hairs often appear as soft, fine ‘baby hairs’ before they mature into thicker strands. Keeping an eye on these subtle changes can help you assess whether PRP is benefiting you.
How Long Does It Take to See Results from PRP Hair Therapy?
The therapy gradually stimulates dormant hair follicles by increasing blood circulation and triggering the release of growth factors that promote cell regeneration and hair growth. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- First 1-3 Months: Hair shedding slows down, an early sign that the treatment is taking effect.
- 3-6 Months: Many people begin to see new hair growth, particularly along the hairline or thinning areas, and hair starts feeling thicker.
- 6-12 Months: Hair density increases, existing strands become stronger, and new growth continues, leading to a healthier, fuller appearance.
PRP therapy is usually performed in multiple sessions, with maintenance treatments recommended every few months to sustain and enhance results. The exact frequency depends on individual factors such as hair condition, response to treatment, and long-term hair restoration goals.
What to Expect After PRP Hair Treatment
PRP therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves drawing a small sample of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich plasma into targeted areas of the scalp. Since the procedure only uses your own biological material, there’s very little downtime. Some people experience mild tenderness, redness, or slight swelling in the treated areas, but this usually subsides within a day or two.
To optimise your results, avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours after treatment, refrain from excessive sun exposure, and skip strenuous exercise for a couple of days. Following these guidelines will help ensure the best possible outcome.
Maximising and Maintaining Results
PRP therapy can be highly effective, but maintaining results requires a combination of factors. Following a healthy lifestyle, eating a nutrient-rich diet (including proteins, iron, and vitamins like biotin), and managing stress all contribute to hair health. Some people choose to combine PRP with other treatments, such as topical solutions or low-level laser therapy, for enhanced benefits.
Additionally, follow-up PRP sessions are typically recommended every 6-12 months to sustain results. Consulting a specialist will help determine the best long-term approach based on your individual needs.
PRP therapy is a promising, natural approach to stimulating hair regrowth, particularly for individuals experiencing early-stage hair thinning or weakened follicles. While results take time to become visible, the gradual process helps restore hair strength and density. Tracking your progress through photos and noting changes in hair texture, shedding, and new growth can help you gauge its effectiveness. If you’re considering this treatment, consulting a specialist can help determine whether PRP therapy is right for you and how to tailor the process to your hair restoration goals.
For those looking to complement PRP therapy with additional skin-enhancing treatments, radiofrequency skin therapy can help improve overall scalp circulation and collagen production, creating a stronger foundation for hair regrowth.
