A PRP hair session is a quick, in-office procedure — usually under an hour — involving a blood draw, spinning that blood to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the plasma into your scalp. Knowing each step removes the anxiety and sets realistic expectations.
Step 1: Consultation and Assessment
Before treatment, a qualified provider should assess your hair loss pattern, medical history and suitability. PRP is most appropriate for early-to-moderate thinning where follicles are weakened but present — not for fully bald areas. Be honest about medications and health conditions.
Step 2: The Blood Draw
A small amount of blood (similar to a routine blood test) is drawn from your arm. This is the raw material — your own platelet-rich blood.
Step 3: Centrifugation
The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins it at high speed to separate its components by density. This isolates and concentrates the platelet-rich plasma from red blood cells and other components. The quality of this step — and the device used — significantly affects the final product.
Step 4: Scalp Preparation
The scalp is cleaned, and a numbing option (topical anesthetic cream, cooling, or a local anesthetic) is typically used to reduce discomfort during injections.
Step 5: The Injections
The concentrated plasma is injected into the scalp at the level of the hair follicles, across the thinning areas, in a grid pattern. This is the core of the treatment and usually takes 10–20 minutes.
Pain and Comfort
Most people describe the injections as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful, especially with numbing. Sensitivity varies by individual and scalp area.
Downtime
PRP has minimal downtime. You may have some tenderness, redness or mild swelling at the injection sites for a day or two. Most people return to normal activities the same day.
Aftercare Basics
Providers commonly advise:
- Avoiding harsh hair products, vigorous washing, saunas and intense exercise for a short period (often 24–48 hours)
- Not applying ice directly (which can blunt the growth-factor response) unless instructed
- Following your specific clinic's instructions
How Many Sessions?
PRP is not a one-time treatment. A common approach is an initial series of 3–4 sessions spaced about a month apart, followed by maintenance sessions every few months. Consistency matters — results build over a series, not a single visit. See the results timeline here.
This article is for general education only and is not medical advice. Specific protocols vary; follow the guidance of your qualified provider.
Part of an educational series on PRP and exosome hair therapy on rabeelrana.com/blog. See the full FAQ and PRP vs exosomes comparison.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. PRP is used off-label for hair loss and exosome hair therapy is not FDA-approved. Always consult a qualified dermatologist or physician before starting any hair-loss treatment. Individual results vary.
