PRP for Hair: What to Expect at Your First Visit
Clinical content by Jeffrey Vogel, MD, MPH – Chief Medical Officer, Boundless
Most men who schedule their first PRP session don't know what to expect until they are already there. Here is a clear picture of the full experience: before, during, and after.
Before you arrive
In the week before your session, pause blood-thinning supplements – fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo are common ones. About 72 hours before, stop NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), which interfere with platelet function. Stay well hydrated, get solid sleep, and avoid alcohol in the 48 hours prior.
At Boundless, you will receive detailed pre-session instructions when you book. We believe preparation directly influences the quality of the PRP produced, which is why we take it seriously from the start.
What happens during the session
A standard PRP session runs 45 to 60 minutes. It begins with a scalp assessment to document baseline and guide delivery. Next is a small blood draw – identical to a standard lab test. Your blood is then placed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelet-rich plasma.
Before injections begin, the scalp is numbed topically. The PRP is then delivered via small injections into thinning areas. Most men describe the sensation as brief pinches. The injection portion takes 15 to 20 minutes.
[See this post for how Alma TED delivery compares to traditional PRP injection.]
The needle-free option
If the injection component gives you pause, PRP & Alma TED delivers your PRP via ultrasound instead – no needles, no numbing, and a notably more comfortable experience. The only needle involved is the initial blood draw. [See this post for how the technology works.]
After the session
Recovery is minimal. Mild scalp tenderness and some redness for 24 to 48 hours are normal. For the first 24 hours: avoid washing your hair, skip intense workouts and saunas, and keep the scalp clean. Most men return to their normal schedule within 48 hours, often sooner.
Final Thoughts
The first PRP visit is generally more straightforward than men expect. The preparation is manageable, the session is efficient, and the recovery is minimal.
To learn more about PRP click HERE. For all available hair restoration options at Boundless, explore our Hair page HERE.
