Your Complete PRP Journey: 90 Days From First Needle to New Hair

At 9:47 on a Tuesday morning, James walked into our Marylebone clinic convinced he'd made an expensive mistake. He'd booked PRP treatment after months of research but suddenly wondered if injecting his own blood into his scalp was genius or madness. By 10:45, he was walking out, treatment complete, surprised by how straightforward it had been. Twelve weeks later, he sent us photos of hair growth he described as "better than I dared hope." His journey from scepticism to satisfaction mirrors that of thousands of patients, yet most arrive for their first appointment with no real idea what to expect.

The information vacuum surrounding PRP treatment is striking. Clinics show before-and-after photos but rarely explain the between. Websites list benefits but skip the experience. Forums spread anecdotes without context. After performing over 8,000 PRP treatments, I've learned that patients who understand the process achieve better results. Knowledge reduces anxiety, improves compliance, and sets realistic expectations. This is your complete guide to the PRP journey – every detail from booking to results, including the parts other clinics don't discuss.

Day -30 to -1: The Preparation Phase Most Skip

Your PRP journey begins long before you enter the clinic. The month before treatment determines success as much as the treatment itself. Yet most patients only learn this after suboptimal first results. Proper preparation can improve outcomes by 40%.

Blood quality directly impacts PRP quality. We need optimal platelet counts, minimal inflammation, and robust growth factor production. This requires strategic preparation most clinics never mention. Stop alcohol one week before treatment – it reduces platelet aggregation and growth factor release. Increase water intake to 3 litres daily, improving blood volume and making collection easier. Poor hydration leads to difficult blood draws and concentrated samples that process poorly.

Nutritional optimisation begins immediately after booking. Start vitamin C (1000mg daily) to support platelet production. Add iron if ferritin is below 70 – we can check this if you're unsure. Vitamin D supplementation improves growth factor expression. B-complex supports cellular energy production. These aren't expensive supplements but make measurable differences to treatment response.

Exercise regularly but avoid extreme training 48 hours before treatment. Moderate exercise improves circulation and growth hormone production. Excessive training causes inflammation that impairs PRP quality. One marathon runner patient had poor first results; we discovered he'd run 20 miles the morning of treatment. His inflamed state neutralised the regenerative signals.

Medication review is crucial. Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen must stop 7 days before treatment – they impair platelet function. Aspirin requires 10 days cessation if medically safe. Fish oil supplements, turmeric, and high-dose vitamin E also affect platelets. Never stop prescribed medications without consulting your prescribing doctor. We work with your GP to safely modify medications when necessary.

Scalp preparation improves results. Start gentle daily massage to improve circulation. Use clarifying shampoo weekly to remove product buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals or colouring two weeks before. Treat any scalp conditions – dandruff, dermatitis, or infections must resolve before treatment. One patient with hidden fungal infection had zero response until we treated the infection and repeated PRP.

Mental preparation matters more than people realise. Understand that results take time. Initial shedding is possible and positive. Perfect results are unrealistic; improvement is the goal. Write down your specific goals and concerns to discuss during consultation. Take baseline photos from multiple angles in consistent lighting. These become invaluable for tracking progress when changes occur gradually.

Day 0, Hour 0: Arrival and Assessment

Your appointment begins with comprehensive assessment, not immediate treatment. We need to understand your unique situation to personalise the protocol. This isn't a production line where everyone receives identical treatment.

Medical history review takes 15-20 minutes. We discuss medications, supplements, allergies, and previous treatments. Family hair loss patterns predict your progression. Previous treatment responses guide our approach. Medical conditions affecting hair receive attention. Recent stressors, illness, or surgery impact treatment timing. Honest disclosure ensures safety and optimises results.

Scalp examination uses digital trichoscopy, magnifying your scalp 50-200x. We assess follicular density, measuring units per square centimetre across twelve zones. Miniaturisation percentage indicates loss severity. Vascular patterns reveal circulation quality. Inflammation signs guide additional treatments. Sebum production affects protocol choice. This data provides objective baseline measurements beyond photographs.

Blood tests might be recommended. Low ferritin, thyroid dysfunction, or vitamin deficiencies need correction. Hormonal imbalances in women require investigation. Inflammatory markers guide timing. These aren't always necessary but can explain poor responses. One patient with three failed PRP attempts elsewhere had undiagnosed coeliac disease destroying nutrient absorption.

Photography uses standardised positions and lighting. Front, top, both sides, and back views at specific angles. Hair must be styled consistently. We use cross-polarised light to eliminate surface reflection. These images become your comparison standard. Many patients think they're not improving until we show three-month comparisons revealing dramatic change.

Treatment planning follows assessment. We explain realistic outcomes based on your loss pattern. Session frequency depends on severity and goals. Combination treatments might be recommended. Costs are detailed transparently. Timeline expectations are set clearly. Questions receive thorough answers. You should leave consultation fully informed, not pressured or confused.

Hour 1: The Blood Draw

The blood draw causes more anxiety than necessary. Modern techniques make it virtually painless. We've successfully treated severe needle phobics who now barely notice the process.

Preparation begins with positioning. You'll recline comfortably with arm supported. We warm the arm to dilate veins, making access easier. Tourniquet application is brief, just enough to visualise veins. We use the antecubital fossa (inner elbow) typically, though hand veins work if needed. Butterfly needles provide better control than straight needles.

Collection takes 2-3 minutes. We draw 30-60ml depending on treatment area and protocol. The tubes contain anticoagulant preventing clotting. You might feel slight pulling sensation but sharp pain indicates need for repositioning. Distraction techniques help anxious patients – conversation, music, or breathing exercises. One patient practices multiplication tables; another plans holidays.

Volume matters for quality. Too little blood means inadequate platelet concentration. Too much unnecessarily depletes you. We calculate precisely based on scalp area, baseline platelet count, and target concentration. Larger treatment areas require more product. Higher baseline counts allow smaller draws. It's mathematics, not guesswork.

Post-draw care prevents bruising. Direct pressure for 2-3 minutes stops bleeding. Avoid bending the arm immediately. The adhesive bandage can be removed after an hour. Bruising is uncommon with proper technique but some people bruise easily. Arnica cream helps if bruising occurs. Stay hydrated to replace volume quickly.

Hour 1.5: The Separation Science

Watching your blood transform into treatment fascinates most patients. The centrifugation process separates blood components by density, isolating the healing fraction we need.

First spin separates major components. The centrifuge spins at 1,500 rpm for 10 minutes. Red blood cells, heaviest, sink to bottom. Platelet-poor plasma, lightest, rises to top. The narrow buffy coat between contains platelets and white cells. Temperature control at 20-24°C preserves platelet viability. Incorrect temperature damages platelets, reducing efficacy.

Extraction requires precision. We remove the platelet-poor plasma, discarding this waste portion. The buffy coat and small amount of plasma above it transfer to new tubes. This contains your concentrated platelets. Too much plasma dilutes concentration. Too little leaves platelets behind. Experience determines the exact extraction point.

Second spin concentrates platelets. Higher speed (3,500 rpm) for 15 minutes further concentrates. Platelets pellet at tube bottom. Most plasma is removed, leaving 3-6ml of PRP. This achieves 5-7x concentration from baseline. Some clinics skip this step, achieving only 2-3x concentration, below therapeutic threshold.

Quality assessment ensures standards. We can measure platelet concentration if requested. Colour indicates quality – golden yellow is ideal. Red tinge suggests red cell contamination. Clear appearance means inadequate concentration. Clumping visible to naked eye indicates activation, rendering treatment less effective.

Activation prepares platelets for release. Calcium chloride triggers platelet degranulation. Growth factors release immediately upon injection. Some protocols use thrombin for gel formation. Others rely on tissue contact for activation. We use calcium chloride for hair treatments, achieving predictable activation.

Hour 2: The Treatment Process

The injection phase is when patients realise their anxiety was disproportionate. Modern techniques make PRP far more comfortable than imagination suggests.

Numbing begins treatment. Topical anaesthetic cream covers the entire treatment area. 30-45 minutes achieves deep numbness. Some patients prefer nerve blocks for complete anaesthesia. Ice packs provide additional numbing if needed. The goal is minimal discomfort, not bravery medals.

Cleaning prevents infection. Chlorhexidine or alcohol cleanses the scalp. Hair doesn't need cutting or shaving. Sterile drapes aren't necessary for scalp treatment. Basic antiseptic technique suffices. Infection risk is virtually zero with proper technique.

Injection technique determines results. We use 30-32 gauge needles, minimising discomfort. Depth is 4-6mm, reaching the dermal papilla. Spacing is 1cm in grid pattern ensuring complete coverage. Each injection delivers 0.1-0.2ml of PRP. Total injections range from 50-100 depending on area. Speed balances comfort with precision.

Sensations vary between patients. Most describe pressure or mild stinging. The numbing cream eliminates sharp pain. Occasional "zingers" occur if we hit nerve endings. These last seconds. Some areas are more sensitive – temples and crown typically. Back of scalp least sensitive. Overall discomfort averages 2-3/10, less than dental work.

The pattern follows hair loss areas. We concentrate on thinning zones, not bald areas. Hairline receives detailed attention. Crown gets comprehensive coverage. We might extend into apparently normal areas preventing future loss. Treatment maps are recorded for consistency between sessions.

Duration is 15-25 minutes for injection. Rushing compromises results. Too slow causes unnecessary discomfort. Experienced practitioners find the sweet spot. Patients often comment it's faster than expected. Music or podcast distraction helps time pass.

Hours 3-24: Immediate Aftermath

Post-treatment sensations vary but follow predictable patterns. Understanding normal reactions prevents unnecessary worry.

Immediate sensations include mild throbbing or tightness. The scalp might feel "full" from injected volume. Temporary headache affects 20% of patients. These indicate growth factor activity, not complications. Paracetamol manages discomfort effectively. Avoid ibuprofen which interferes with beneficial inflammation.

Scalp appearance changes temporarily. Mild swelling creates fuller appearance immediately. Small injection points might be visible as red dots. These disappear within hours. Bruising is rare with proper technique. The PRP coating makes hair appear slightly thicker temporarily.

Activity restrictions are minimal. Avoid touching or scratching the scalp for 6 hours. No hair washing for 24 hours allows maximum absorption. Skip gym for 48 hours preventing excess sweating. Swimming pools avoided for 72 hours. Otherwise, normal activities resume immediately.

Sleep positioning doesn't require modification. Unlike surgery, no special pillows needed. Some patients report mild tenderness affecting sleep position initially. This resolves within 1-2 nights. Silk pillowcases reduce friction if concerned.

Days 1-7: The Quiet Phase

The first week brings subtle changes most patients miss without guidance. Understanding these early signs provides reassurance that treatment is working.

Scalp sensations evolve daily. Day 2-3 brings "activation tingles" – mild itching indicating cellular activity. Day 4-5, the scalp feels different, harder to describe. Patients report increased awareness of their scalp. Day 6-7 normalises with residual sense of "something happening."

Shedding might begin, panicking unprepared patients. Dormant follicles activate, pushing out old hairs. This is positive, not treatment failure. Shedding varies – some none, others notable increase. Document but don't obsess. It resolves within 2-3 weeks regardless.

Scalp health improves noticeably. Oiliness reduces in seborrhoeic patients. Dry scalps show better hydration. Itching from inflammation decreases. Dandruff often improves. These changes indicate environmental improvement supporting future growth.

Hair texture subtly changes. Existing hair might feel slightly thicker from growth factor coating. Manageability improves. Static reduces. Shine increases marginally. These aren't imagination – growth factors affect existing shafts immediately.

Energy sensations surprise some patients. Despite being local treatment, some report increased overall energy. This might be psychological from taking positive action. Possibly systemic effects from growth factors. Either way, embrace the positivity.

Days 8-30: Building Momentum

The second through fourth weeks show accelerating changes. Patience during this phase is crucial as your scalp undergoes regeneration.

Vascular changes occur beneath the surface. New capillaries form, improving blood supply. This isn't visible but measurable on thermography. Better circulation means better nutrient delivery. Oxygen supply increases. Waste removal improves. The infrastructure for growth develops.

Stem cell activation peaks around day 14. Dormant follicle stem cells receive growth signals. Cell division accelerates. New follicle components generate. This cellular activity isn't visible yet. Foundation building precedes visible construction.

Inflammation resolves if present. Chronic scalp inflammation impairs growth. PRP's anti-inflammatory effects calm irritation. Redness reduces. Tenderness disappears. The hostile environment becomes growth-friendly.

Early sprouting might begin in fast responders. Tiny vellus hairs emerge, barely visible. These strengthen over coming months. Don't expect dramatic changes yet. Document with macro photography to capture micro changes.

Psychological effects shouldn't be dismissed. Taking action improves mood. Hope replaces resignation. Confidence begins rebuilding before visible results. This mental shift is valuable regardless of physical outcomes.

Days 31-60: Emergence Phase

The second month brings first visible proof of success for most patients. This is when doubt transforms into excitement.

New growth becomes apparent. Fine hairs emerge along hairlines. Fuzzy growth appears in thinning areas. These initially lack pigment, appearing translucent. Length is minimal, perhaps 2-3mm. Quality improves with time.

Existing hair strengthens noticeably. Shaft diameter increases measurably. Breakage reduces significantly. Growth rate accelerates slightly. The improvement in existing hair often exceeds new growth initially.

Styling changes reflect improvement. Less product needed for volume. Hair holds style better. Scalp visibility reduces in bright light. Parting lines appear narrower. These subtle changes accumulate into noticeable improvement.

Photography comparisons show change. Side-by-side images reveal progress invisible daily. Density improvements become documentable. Others might start commenting on looking better. The investment begins showing returns.

Maintenance planning begins. Assess response to guide frequency. Strong responders might space treatments more. Modest responders need closer intervals. Protocol adjustments optimise individual results.

Days 61-90: Visible Victory

The third month delivers what patients came for – undeniable improvement worth the investment.

Density increases become obvious. Hair count per square centimetre rises 20-40% in responders. Coverage improves significantly. Thin areas appear fuller. Bald spots shrink or fill. The cumulative effect transforms appearance.

Quality improvements match quantity gains. Hair thickness increases 15-25%. Texture normalises from wiry to smooth. Colour improves from dull to vibrant. Shine returns. Hair behaves like younger hair.

Confidence rebounds dramatically. No longer avoiding mirrors or photos. Styling options expand. Social anxiety reduces. Dating confidence returns. Professional presence strengthens. The psychological benefits often exceed physical improvements.

Results assessment guides future treatment. Objective measurements compare to baseline. Patient satisfaction is evaluated. Additional sessions are planned if needed. Maintenance schedules are established. Long-term strategy develops.

Months 4-12: Consolidation and Optimisation

The journey continues beyond initial treatments. Long-term success requires strategic maintenance and optimisation.

Continued improvement occurs for 6-12 months. Initial treatments trigger cascading regeneration. Each cycle produces stronger hair. Density continues increasing gradually. Quality improvements accumulate. Maximum results appear around month 9.

Maintenance frequency varies individually. Some maintain with quarterly treatments. Others need bi-monthly sessions. Aggressive loss requires monthly maintenance. Response quality guides scheduling. Goal is preserving gains efficiently.

Combination strategies enhance results. Medications might be added. Nutritional support continues. Scalp treatments between sessions help. Low-level laser therapy provides additional stimulation. Comprehensive approach surpasses monotherapy.

Lifestyle factors gain importance. Stress management preserves results. Sleep quality affects hair growth. Exercise improves circulation. Nutrition provides building blocks. Holistic health supports hair health.

Long-term planning prevents surprises. Annual assessments track progression. Protocol adjustments maintain efficacy. Budget planning ensures continuity. Realistic expectations prevent disappointment. Success requires commitment, not magic.

Common Concerns Throughout the Journey

Understanding typical worries helps navigate the process confidently.

"Nothing's happening" dominates month one. Remember cellular changes precede visible results. Document everything for perspective. Trust the process based on thousands of successes. Patience is challenging but necessary.

"Shedding increased" panics many initially. This indicates activation, not failure. Old hairs clear for new growth. It's temporary and positive. Document but don't catastrophise.

"Results are uneven" is common initially. Different areas respond at different rates. Severely damaged zones take longer. Healthy areas show quick improvement. Evening out occurs with subsequent treatments.

"When can I colour my hair?" is frequently asked. Wait one week post-treatment. Use gentle, ammonia-free products. Consider highlights over full colour. Healthy hair withstands chemicals better.

"Can I wear hats?" worries many. Hats are fine after 24 hours. Choose loose-fitting options. Avoid tight bands causing traction. Clean hats prevent infection.

Treatment Variations and Adjustments

Not every journey follows identical paths. Understanding variations helps set appropriate expectations.

Fast responders (20%) see growth within 4 weeks. These patients typically younger with recent loss. Their follicles readily reactivate. Results often exceed expectations. Maintenance might be less frequent.

Standard responders (60%) follow typical timeline. Visible results by 8-12 weeks. Steady improvement over 6 months. Maintenance every 3-4 months. Satisfaction rates highest in this group.

Slow responders (15%) need patience. Results might take 4-6 months. Additional sessions often necessary. Protocol modifications might help. Ultimate results can equal fast responders.

Non-responders (5%) require investigation. Underlying conditions might interfere. Protocol might need adjustment. Alternative treatments are considered. Honest discussion guides next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Life happens. Give maximum notice for rescheduling. Gaps between treatments up to 6 weeks don't significantly impact results. Longer gaps might require protocol adjustment. Consistency matters more than perfect timing.

Can I travel after treatment?

Flying is safe immediately post-treatment. Cabin pressure doesn't affect results. Stay hydrated during flights. Avoid swimming in questionable water abroad. Sun protection is essential for scalp health.

Will sweating affect results?

Avoid heavy sweating for 48 hours post-treatment. After that, exercise normally. Sweating doesn't wash out PRP already absorbed. Regular exercise improves circulation supporting growth. Balance activity with initial healing.

How do I explain treatment to others?

Your privacy matters. Simple explanations suffice: "vitamin treatment for hair health." Most people won't probe further. Close family deserve honesty if comfortable. No obligation to discuss medical treatments.

Can I have multiple areas treated simultaneously?

Scalp, face, and joints can be treated together. Blood volume drawn increases accordingly. Results don't diminish with multiple areas. Cost efficiency improves with combination treatment. Recovery remains minimal.

What if I'm disappointed with results?

Honest discussion identifies issues. Protocol adjustments might help. Additional treatments could improve response. Alternative approaches exist. Partial refunds possible in true non-response. We want you satisfied.

How long will results last without maintenance?

Initial gains persist 12-18 months without maintenance. Gradual decline follows natural progression. You won't lose faster than without treatment. Benefits partially remain long-term. Maintenance preserves investment.

Can results be too good?

Some patients achieve such density they reduce maintenance. Others worry about looking "too young." Results are gradual and natural. You control treatment frequency. Stop when satisfied.

Will insurance cover treatment?

Most insurance excludes cosmetic procedures. Hair loss rarely qualifies for coverage. HSA/FSA funds might be applicable. Payment plans make treatment accessible. Investment in confidence has value beyond monetary.

Should I tell my partner/family?

Personal choice entirely. Support improves compliance. Shared excitement enhances experience. Privacy is equally valid. Do what feels comfortable for you.

Your PRP journey is uniquely yours, but understanding the typical path eliminates uncertainty and optimises results. Every injection, every waiting week, every emerging hair represents progress toward your goal. The process requires patience, but patients consistently report it's worth the investment.

Success comes from choosing the right clinic, following protocols properly, and maintaining realistic expectations. The journey from first consultation to full results spans months, but the confidence gained lasts years.

Ready to begin your PRP journey with London's most experienced team? The London PRP Clinic has guided over 3,000 patients through successful treatment. Our detailed consultation ensures you understand every step before committing. Book your assessment for £125, fully redeemable against treatment. Call 020 3951 3429 or WhatsApp 07399323620. Your transformation journey starts with one decision.