If you’ve been hearing about PRP therapy and wondering whether it could be the solution to your thinning hair or stubborn wrinkles, you’re not alone. Raleigh residents seeking non-surgical, regenerative options have been turning to Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments for natural healing and aesthetic enhancement. But what does the process actually involve? In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after your PRP session—so you can feel confident and informed when booking your appointment.
What Is PRP Therapy?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a regenerative treatment that uses a small amount of your own blood to extract plasma rich in growth factors. This concentrated serum is then injected into areas like the scalp (for hair loss) or skin (for texture and wrinkle improvement), stimulating tissue repair and collagen production. Because it comes from your body, it’s considered a safe, natural approach with minimal risk of adverse reactions.
PRP is commonly used in:
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Hair restoration
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Skin rejuvenation (face, neck, décolletage)
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Under-eye treatments
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Joint and soft tissue healing
Let’s now explore what the full process looks like.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Before your treatment begins, you’ll meet with a qualified provider in Raleigh to assess your concerns and goals. Whether you’re looking to reverse hair thinning, smooth fine lines, or improve overall skin health, this step is crucial for determining if PRP is the right approach.
What’s discussed during the consultation:
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Your medical history and medications
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Target treatment areas
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Expected outcomes and treatment plan
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Number of sessions required (usually 3–4 for optimal results)
You’ll also have a chance to ask questions about how PRP works, how long it lasts, and any post-treatment care.
Step 2: Preparing for Your Appointment
Once you’ve decided to move forward, your provider will give you a few pre-treatment instructions to ensure the best results:
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water the day before and day of your session.
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Avoid blood-thinners: This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, alcohol, and supplements like fish oil for 3–5 days before treatment (unless prescribed).
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Arrive with clean skin: If getting facial PRP, avoid makeup or skincare on the treatment area.
These simple steps help ensure high-quality plasma extraction and minimize bruising or sensitivity after the procedure.
Step 3: Blood Draw and PRP Preparation
On the day of your appointment, a small amount of blood is drawn from your arm—usually no more than what you’d give for a routine lab test. This sample is placed into a centrifuge machine that spins it at high speed to separate the components.
Within minutes, the plasma is divided into layers, and your provider collects the golden-yellow PRP layer, which contains high concentrations of platelets and growth factors. This concentrated plasma is what gets injected back into your skin or scalp.
The entire process—from draw to preparation—takes about 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: PRP Injection or Microneedling
Once the PRP is ready, your provider will begin the treatment process. Depending on your goal, the application method may vary:
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For hair loss: PRP is injected directly into the scalp near thinning areas using a fine needle.
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For facial rejuvenation: It may be injected into specific zones (like under eyes, nasolabial folds) or used with microneedling for even distribution across the skin.
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For scar or texture issues: Microneedling with PRP can help remodel skin tone, reduce acne scars, and improve texture.
You might feel a bit of pressure or mild stinging, but most patients describe it as tolerable. Numbing cream may be applied in more sensitive areas.
Step 5: Immediate Aftercare
After your session, you’ll likely notice some mild swelling, redness, or tenderness in the treated area—this is completely normal and usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
Here’s what you should keep in mind:
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Avoid washing your face or scalp for at least 12–24 hours
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Skip strenuous workouts for a day or two
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Do not apply makeup or harsh skincare for 24 hours
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Refrain from sun exposure or heat treatments for at least 48 hours
Your provider will give you custom aftercare instructions depending on your treatment zone.
Step 6: Long-Term Results and Maintenance
PRP works gradually as your body responds to the growth factors. For most patients in Raleigh, visible results start appearing within 2–4 weeks, with full improvement at around 2–3 months. In hair restoration, this looks like new growth and thicker strands. In skin rejuvenation, you’ll notice improved glow, texture, and elasticity.
Is one session enough?
Usually not. PRP therapy works best in a series of 3–4 treatments spaced about 4–6 weeks apart, followed by maintenance sessions every 6–12 months depending on your needs.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
PRP is well-suited for men and women who:
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Want to improve early signs of aging
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Experience mild to moderate hair thinning
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Prefer natural, non-surgical solutions
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Are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or severely anemic
Because it uses your own blood, there’s no risk of allergic reaction, making it a safe choice for most individuals.
Choosing the Right PRP Provider in Raleigh
PRP is a technique-sensitive treatment. Choosing a qualified, experienced provider who understands how to prepare and inject PRP correctly is critical to getting great results. At PRP In Raleigh, you’ll be in the hands of professionals who specialize in regenerative medicine and aesthetic solutions.
Final Thoughts
PRP therapy offers a natural, low-risk way to rejuvenate your skin, promote hair regrowth, and improve overall tissue health. When done by skilled professionals, it can be a powerful tool for those looking to age gracefully without surgery.
If you’re considering PRP in Raleigh, this guide should help you understand what to expect from consultation to final results—so you can walk into your first session feeling confident and prepared.