How to Prepare for Your First PRP Session: A Complete Guide

Ready for your first platelet-rich plasma PRP session in Winnipeg, but not sure what to expect? Here’s how to prepare your body and skin to get the most out of your PRP treatment. Because the treatment uses your own body’s growth factors to naturally repair and regenerate tissue, it is completely normal to feel a little uncertain about the dos and don’ts before your session. 

People often ask questions like “What should I do before my PRP appointment?” or “How can I prepare for PRP treatment to get optimal results?” To answer your queries, this guide covers everything you need to know- from confirming whether PRP is right for you to pre-treatment prep and what to expect during your session.  

Does PRP Treatment Actually Work?

Before going into session prep, it is important to understand whether PRP is an ideal treatment for you and what type of results you can expect. When performed by a skilled Winnipeg dermatologist, a series of PRP therapy sessions can deliver noticeable improvements for both skin and hair. This non-surgical, natural treatment helps reduce fine lines, improve skin texture, and support healthier hair growth by using your body’s cells to repair and rejuvenate. 

However, it is not an overnight solution- results develop gradually as your skin and scalp regenerate. With consistent sessions and proper preparation, you can improve your results over time. PRP for cosmetic goals works wonders for:

• Hair Loss (specifically related to Androgenetic Alopecia)

• Skin rejuvenation and texture improvement

How to Prepare for Your PRP Treatment

PRP is a natural cosmetic option that requires careful PRP preparation a few days before your session. Your focus should be on improving blood quality, platelet count, and skin health. Minor lifestyle modifications can make a major difference in how well your body responds. 

What to Do Before PRP Treatment

If you are considering undergoing a PRP treatment for hair or face, here are a few things to be mindful of:

• Hydration: Drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water every day. A well-hydrated body makes blood drawing easier and helps produce a higher-quality PRP concentrate.

• Nutrient-Rich Foods: Eat fruits, vegetables, and include food high in protein, vitamins A, C, and E. These nutrients produce collagen and platelet function.

• Anti-Inflammatory Medicines: Certain NSAIDs and supplements should be avoided before your PRP session. Talk to your dermatologist for a detailed list of these medicines. 

• Caffeine: Too much caffeine consumption can dehydrate you, making blood draws more difficult. 

• Alcohol or Smoking: Do not consume alcohol and avoid smoking before your PRP injection procedure, as they both reduce oxygen levels in the blood and affect healing. This can compromise your PRP results.

• Harsh Skin Treatments: If you are planning a PRP treatment for the face, do not use exfoliants, retinoids, or acids at least 3 to 5 days before your session. 

• Clean Scalp: For PRP hair treatment, wash your hair the night before your session. Also, avoid applying oils, sprays, or styling products. 

• Adequate Sleep: Proper sleep supports platelet regeneration and overall skin health.

What to Expect on the Day of Your PRP Therapy Session

Your Winnipeg PRP specialist will guide you through every step, from consultation to application. Here is what typically happens on the day of your PRP treatment:

• Consultation and Preparation: A skilled dermatologist in Winnipeg will first review your medical history, discuss your aesthetic goals, and cleanse the treatment area. So, keep your medical reports handy.

• Blood Draw: A small sample of the blood is taken from your arm, similar to a regular lab test. 

• Centrifugation: Then the sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins rapidly to separate the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from red & white blood cells. 

• Application: The process is divided into two parts:

  • For PRP facials, the plasma is either injected into the skin via microneedling or applied topically to enhance absorption.

  • For PRP hair treatments, the plasma is injected into targeted scalp areas where you are struggling with hair thinning or shedding.

• Post-Procedure Care: Be prepared for mild side effects after your PRP therapy session, such as redness, swelling, or tenderness. It is common for 1-2 days and typically lessens over time.    

How Much Time Does PRP Treatment Take to Show Results?

Unlike cosmetic treatments that deliver instant results, platelet-rich plasma therapy works slowly as your body’s natural healing process activates. To notice visible results in your skin tone, texture, or hair thickness, you must undergo at least two PRP sessions. However, factors such as your skin condition, age, lifestyle, and post-treatment care can influence both the healing timeline and treatment results.    

How Long Do the Effects of a PRP Treatment Last?

The longevity of platelet-rich plasma therapy results largely depends on how well you prepare before and after your session. Generally, the effects of PRP can last anywhere from 12 to 18 months without maintenance. The duration can change depending on individual factors, including age, skin type, lifestyle, and the area treated. However, to maintain your results, follow your dermatologist's aftercare instructions and attend maintenance sessions as recommended. 

Conclusion

Just like prepping your skin is essential for a flawless makeup base, proper preparation is also important for achieving the best PRP treatment results. Since platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a natural procedure that helps restore and rejuvenate your hair and skin, how you prepare before your PRP session directly affects the outcome. When it comes to something as personal as your skin or hair, the experience and expertise behind your treatment matter. 

Choose a clinician who understands the science of PRP and delivers individualized care in every session. At Embrace Skin Clinic, our expert Winnipeg dermatologists take the time to understand your aesthetic goals and provide results that look the best version of you. Book your PRP therapy session today and experience the benefits of this non-surgical skin and hair rejuvenation procedure.