Hair treatment has become a common procedure in the cosmetic industry, and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment stole the show due to its non-surgical technique. The procedure involves injecting PRP, derived from your blood, into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles and improve overall scalp health. While the process itself is minimally invasive, your post-treatment care plays a big role in achieving optimal results. Knowing what to avoid after PRP hair treatment can help enhance the effectiveness of the procedure and minimize potential side effects. Here are the key things to avoid after PRP hair treatment.
1. Avoid Touching or Washing the Treated Area Immediately
Just after PRP injections, you will experience a more sensitive scalp; touching it can introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. You will be asked to avoid washing the area for at least 24-48 hours to allow the PRP to settle and begin working. Washing too soon might disrupt the healing process or cause irritation. Use a mild shampoo when you resume washing, as harsh chemicals can aggravate the scalp.
2. Refrain from Hair Styling Products
You must be eager to use those styling products, but hold on for the first week, as styling gels, sprays, and other hair products contain chemicals that can irritate the scalp and interfere with the treatment’s effectiveness. This allows the scalp to heal properly and ensures the treatment penetrates deeply without obstruction.
3. No Heat or Chemical Treatments
I know those hair colors must be so tempting to get, but recovery in hair treatment needs some more patience. Avoid hair coloring, bleaching, or any chemical treatments for at least two weeks post-treatment. Similarly, using heat-styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers can harm the sensitive scalp. These activities can cause inflammation, dryness, or irritation, hampering the treatment’s progress.
4. Stay Away from Strenuous Exercise
Not to scare you, but it is advisable to avoid exercises that can cause excessive sweating. It may irritate the treated area and increase the risk of infection. For the first 48 hours, avoid high-intensity exercises, saunas, or steam rooms. Light activities like walking or gentle yoga are acceptable, but heavy exertion should be postponed until the scalp has had time to heal.
5. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
We all know what UV rays are capable of; thus, you must avoid sun exposure at any cost. Do you know the treated scalp is more sensitive to UV rays after PRP treatment? Direct sun exposure can lead to irritation or even damage the healing tissues. If you really have to go outdoors, wear a loose-fitting hat or use a scarf to protect your scalp. Again, sunscreen is generally not recommended for the scalp immediately after treatment, so minimizing sun exposure is the safest option.
6. Skip Alcohol and Smoking
Just to support the body’s healing process, you can avoid alcohol consumption and smoking since it interferes with the healing process by impairing blood flow and reducing the oxygen supply to the scalp.
7. Hold Off on Hair Massage
While scalp massages are generally good for blood circulation, they are not advisable immediately after PRP treatment. Massaging the treated area too soon can disrupt the PRP distribution and potentially cause discomfort. Wait for at least a week or until your doctor gives you the green light.
8. Do Not Ignore Your Doctor’s Instructions
After all is said and done, the most important instructions are written in your file. Follow those to avoid any disappointments. Avoid over-the-counter medications or treatments that haven’t been approved by your healthcare provider. If you notice unusual side effects such as severe pain, redness, or swelling, contact your doctor promptly.
Conclusion
PRP hair treatment is a promising solution for hair loss, but its success heavily relies on proper aftercare. By avoiding these common pitfalls and adhering to your doctor’s advice, you can maximize the benefits of the procedure and pave the way for healthier, fuller hair. Be patient, as results take time to become visible, and remember that consistency in follow-up treatments and care is key to achieving long-lasting outcomes.
