Can I resume normal activity directly after platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) injections in the scalp?

Post-PRP Scalp Injection Activity Guidelines

Yes, you can resume most normal activities immediately after PRP scalp injections, but with specific restrictions for the first 24-48 hours to optimize treatment outcomes and minimize complications. 1

Immediate Post-Procedure Protocol (First 24-48 Hours)

Activities You CAN Resume Immediately:

• Walking and light daily activities are permitted immediately after the procedure 1
• Return to work for sedentary or office-based jobs is acceptable 1
• Normal conversation and social interaction without restrictions 1

Critical Restrictions (First 24-48 Hours):

Hair and Scalp Care:

• Avoid washing hair for at least 24 hours post-injection to allow proper PRP absorption and prevent disruption of the injection sites 1
• Do not apply any styling products, oils, or topical treatments (except prescribed medications like minoxidil if already part of your regimen) for 24 hours 1
• Avoid touching, scratching, or manipulating the injection sites to prevent infection introduction 2

Physical Activity:

• Avoid vigorous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities causing profuse sweating for 24-48 hours, as increased blood flow and sweating may interfere with PRP integration 1
• No swimming, saunas, or steam rooms for 48 hours to minimize infection risk 2

Sun and Heat Exposure:

• Minimize direct sun exposure to the scalp for 24-48 hours 1
• Avoid hot showers directly on the scalp; use lukewarm water when permitted to wash 1

Pain Management Expectations

• Mild discomfort or tenderness at injection sites is normal and typically resolves within 24-48 hours 1, 3
• Over-the-counter analgesics (acetaminophen preferred over NSAIDs) can be used if needed 1
• Pain during injection is the primary complaint, but post-procedure pain is generally minimal 1

Critical Safety Monitoring

Watch for signs of infection or complications:

• Increased redness, warmth, or swelling beyond 48 hours 2
• Purulent drainage or abscess formation 2
• Fever or systemic symptoms 2

If any of these occur, immediately contact your provider and pause any planned subsequent PRP sessions until the issue resolves 2

Return to Full Activity Timeline

• After 48 hours, resume all normal activities including vigorous exercise, swimming, and regular hair care routines 1
• Continue your prescribed concurrent therapies (such as topical minoxidil 5% twice daily) without interruption 4
• Maintain proper scalp hygiene using gentle, non-irritating shampoos 5

Treatment Course Context

• You will require 3 treatment sessions spaced exactly one month apart for optimal results 4
• Maintenance injections every 6 months are necessary to sustain hair growth benefits 4
• Initial improvements become visible at 2-3 months, with peak results at 6 months 4

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not discontinue treatment prematurely—stopping PRP results in loss of gains, as continuous treatment is required to maintain benefits 4
• Ensure proper aseptic technique was used during injection to prevent introducing infection 2
• Do not inject PRP if you have active folliculitis or scalp infection—this must be resolved first with appropriate antimicrobial therapy 2