The part people dread is usually the scalp injections — and the part that surprises them is how quickly it is over.
Does PRP hair treatment hurt? It is usually uncomfortable rather than painful. There is a routine blood draw, then many small injections into the thinning areas of the scalp, which most people feel as pressure, stinging or pricking. Cooling, numbing cream and careful technique reduce this, and the scalp is often tender for a day or two afterwards.
What a PRP session involves
The blood draw
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is made from your own blood. The Cleveland Clinic describes a routine blood draw, after which the blood is spun in a centrifuge and the platelet-rich layer is drawn into a syringe.
The scalp injections
The PRP is then injected with a small needle into areas of thinning. The Cleveland Clinic notes that ice is used to ease discomfort and that most people feel pressure with minimal to no pain.
What it actually feels like
During the injections
Most people describe a series of quick pricks with a dull pressure as the fluid goes in. The sensation is short with each injection, but there are many, so the cumulative effect is what people remember.
Which areas are more sensitive
The front hairline and temples usually feel sharper than the crown, where the scalp is thicker. If you are having both, starting at the crown can help you settle into it.
How discomfort is reduced
Ways clinics commonly make PRP more comfortable:
- Ice or cold air on the scalp before and during injections
- Topical numbing cream applied in advance
- Very fine needles and slow, steady injection
- Vibration devices that distract the nerves
- Short breaks if you need them
- In some cases, local anaesthetic decided by the doctor
Discomfort at each stage
| Stage | What you may feel | How long |
|---|---|---|
| Blood draw | A brief pinch, like any blood test | Under a minute |
| Numbing or cooling | Cold, tingling | A few minutes |
| Scalp injections | Pricking, pressure, stinging | Around 15–30 minutes |
| Straight after | Tight, warm or tender scalp | Hours |
| Next day or two | Mild tenderness or headache | Usually settles in 1–2 days |
Typical pattern only; sensitivity varies from person to person and between sessions.
Is the discomfort worth it?
What the evidence shows
PRP has been studied mostly for pattern hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). A published review describes encouraging results but notes that protocols vary widely between studies. The Cleveland Clinic says it takes about three months to see any improvement, with maximum improvement at around one year, and that results are best combined with other medical treatment.
It needs repeat sessions
A common protocol is one session a month for three months, then maintenance sessions every few months — so comfort matters, because you will be coming back.
Step-by-step: making your PRP session more comfortable
Simple things that help on the day:
- Eat a normal meal and drink water before you come.
- Avoid alcohol for a day beforehand.
- Ask your doctor before stopping or starting any pain relief, especially anti-inflammatories.
- Arrive with clean, dry hair and no styling products.
- Ask for cooling or numbing cream and allow time for it to work.
- Breathe slowly and ask for a short break if you need one.
- Avoid washing or swimming for the time your doctor advises afterwards.
Aftercare on a tropical island
Protect the scalp
Freshly treated skin should be kept out of strong sun, so wear a hat for the first days and avoid long hours on the beach.
Keep it clean
Avoid swimming pools, the sea and saunas until your doctor says the injection points have settled, and skip heavy exercise on the day.
PRP for hair at LIV Clinic
Diagnosis first
At LIV Clinic on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Dr. Narathai assesses the type of hair loss before recommending PRP, because not all hair loss responds to it. PRP availability varies — confirm with the clinic.
Read next
Read where to get PRP for hair loss on Koh Samui and PRP vs minoxidil, explore our skin treatments, or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Does PRP hair treatment hurt?
It is usually uncomfortable rather than painful. Most people feel pressure and pricking during the scalp injections, and cooling or numbing helps a lot.
Is the blood draw for PRP painful?
It feels like any routine blood test — a brief pinch lasting under a minute.
How long does the discomfort last after PRP?
The scalp is often tender, tight or slightly sore for a day or two. A mild headache is also possible and usually settles quickly.
Can I take painkillers before PRP?
Ask your doctor first. Some anti-inflammatory medicines may affect platelet function, so the doctor will advise what is suitable for you.
Is the hairline more painful than the crown?
Usually, yes. The front hairline and temples tend to be more sensitive than the crown.
Do later PRP sessions hurt less?
Many people find them easier because they know what to expect, although sensitivity can vary from session to session.
Safety and consultation
PRP hair treatment is a medical injection procedure and carries some risk — common temporary effects include scalp tenderness, pinpoint bleeding, mild swelling and a short-lived headache, and less common reactions such as infection are possible. Results vary from person to person, and no specific outcome can be promised. This article is general information, not medical advice.
At LIV Clinic, every treatment begins with an in-person assessment by Dr. Narathai Vichienkalayarut, M.D., who reviews your skin, medical history and goals before recommending a personalized plan. Book a consultation to find out whether this treatment suits you.
LIV Clinic — “Live Your Life Young”
Doctor-led aesthetic and wellness clinic on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, serving both international visitors and local residents.
Koh Samui (Bophut): 1/63 Thaweeratpakdee Rd, Bo Put, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320 · Tel 065-996-4242
Koh Phangan: 116/16 Moo 1, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani 84280 · Tel 093-254-5259
LINE: @Livclinic · Book a consultation
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