Mesotherapy Hair Treatment – Pre & Post Care Guide (Women)
Mesotherapy hair rejuvenation involves micro-injections of vitamins, nutrients, and growth factors into the scalp to nourish hair follicles. Proper pre- and post-treatment care is crucial for women undergoing this procedure to maximize results and minimize side effects. At Opal Radiant, Dr. Punit (dermatologist and co-founder) personally oversees each mesotherapy session, customizing the approach for your unique needs and safety . Below are the guidelines for pre- and post-care to ensure optimal outcomes for hair thinning, scalp nourishment, or alopecia treatments under Dr. Punit’s supervision.
Pre-Care for Mesotherapy Hair Treatment:
Consultation & Disclosure: Attend a thorough consultation with Dr. Punit to discuss your hair loss pattern and medical history. Be sure to inform him of any underlying conditions (e.g. postpartum hair loss, PCOS or other hormonal issues, scalp conditions) and all medications or supplements you take. This allows the treatment to be tailored to your specific needs – for example, plans can be customized for hormonal hair thinning like PCOS or post-pregnancy shedding .
Medications & Supplements: In the week before your session, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements that can increase bleeding or bruising. This includes aspirin or other NSAIDs (unless prescribed and approved by your doctor), vitamin E, omega-3 fish oil, ginkgo biloba, garlic tablets, and similar supplements for about 7–10 days prior . If you are on prescription blood thinners or other necessary meds, inform Dr. Punit – increased bleeding risk must be managed appropriately.
No Alcohol or Smoking: Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours before your treatment , as it can also increase bruising and dehydration. It’s also advisable to refrain from smoking for 1–2 days prior to your session . Smoking affects blood circulation and healing, so cutting back before (and after) treatment will help your scalp respond better.
Hair & Scalp Preparation: Plan to wash your hair thoroughly the night before or morning of your appointment, using a gentle shampoo . Arrive with a clean scalp free of any styling products, oils, or sprays – do not apply hair spray, dry shampoo, heavy serums, or hair oil on the day of treatment. Any residues could increase infection risk or interfere with the injections. Avoid any harsh chemical hair treatments in the days leading up to your session: no hair coloring, bleaching, perms, or chemical straightening for at least 5–7 days beforehand(these can irritate the scalp). In fact, clinics often recommend not coloring your hair for at least one week before (and after) scalp treatments to prevent irritation . If you use topical hair growth products like minoxidil or other medicated serums, stop applying them about 2 days before your mesotherapy appointment . This ensures your scalp is free of irritants or substances that might interact with the treatment. (You will be advised when to resume these after the session, typically a couple of days later.) Also, if you have any active scalp issues – such as an infection, open wound, or severe dandruff flare – let the clinic know; you may need to resolve these before proceeding to ensure safe treatment .
Timing & Cycle Considerations: Schedule your session at a comfortable time when you’re not rushed or stressed. The procedure involves multiple tiny injections, so being relaxed helps. Some women find they are more sensitive to pain or discomfort at certain points in their menstrual cycle; if you have noticed this, you might choose an appointment date when you typically feel less sensitive (this is optional, but can be considered for your comfort). If you’ve recently had another scalp treatment (such as PRP injections, a scalp laser therapy, or even a hair spa treatment), allow about 1–2 weeks of gap before mesotherapy – or follow Dr. Punit’s advice on timing – to avoid over-stressing the scalp. Coordination of treatment cycles is important for the health of your scalp.
Hydration and Nutrition: In the days leading up to your mesotherapy session, stay well-hydrated and maintain a healthy diet. Drink plenty of water (aim for at least 1–2 liters per day) and eat balanced meals rich in vitamins and protein to fortify your body. On the day of treatment, do not come on an empty stomach – have a healthy meal or light snack beforehand . This helps prevent light-headedness during the procedure (since low blood sugar or anxiety could make you feel faint with injections). Also, try to limit caffeine intake on the appointment day; excessive caffeine can make you jittery and may heighten scalp sensitivity or cause blood vessel constriction, which isn’t ideal for an injection treatment .
Comfort & Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. You’ll be lying down for the treatment, and it can take around 30–60 minutes. A top or blouse that allows access to the scalp (avoid high collars or hats) is advisable. If you have long hair, you may be asked to tie or section it during the procedure. Rest assured that a numbing cream or local anesthetic will be applied to minimize any discomfort from the injections.
Pregnancy and Postpartum: Mesotherapy is not performed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as a precaution . If you are postpartum and experiencing hair loss, you can consider mesotherapy once you have been medically cleared after delivery and are no longer nursing. Many new mothers face hair shedding around 3-6 months postpartum; Dr. Punit will guide you on the ideal timing to start treatment safely. Always inform the clinic if you are or suspect you might be pregnant, or if you’re breastfeeding, so they can defer treatment and offer alternative advice.
Post-Care for Mesotherapy Hair Treatment:
Avoid Washing for 24–48 Hours: After your mesotherapy session, do not wash your hair for at least the first 24 hours (or 48 hours if you can) . This waiting period allows the injected vitamins and growth factors to be absorbed fully into the scalp without being rinsed away . In the meantime, keep the scalp dry. If your treatment day was particularly sweaty or you feel you must rinse, use plain water only and no shampoo during that initial 24-48h window. After 1-2 days, you may resume gentle hair washing: use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo with lukewarm (not hot) water . When you do wash, be very gentle – avoid vigorous scrubbing on the injection sites. Instead, use your fingertips softly to cleanse, and pat the scalp dry with a soft towel rather than rough rubbing .
Scalp Care and Handling: Your scalp might feel a bit tender after the injections, so treat it kindly. Do not scratch, rub, or pick at the treated areas . It’s normal for small needle marks or tiny bumps to be present; they usually resolve quickly. Picking at them or massaging aggressively could introduce bacteria or cause irritation, so hands off the scalp as much as possible for the first couple of days. If you experience itching as the injection sites heal, resist the urge to scratch. Instead, you can gently tap or pat if needed, or consult the clinic for an approved soothing spray or lotion. Also, avoid using any topical products on the scalp (like hair oils, serums, minoxidil, anti-dandruff treatments, etc.) for about 2-3 days unless advised by Dr. Punit. Give your scalp time to recover without additional chemicals.
Sun Protection: Protect your scalp from direct sunlight after treatment. Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for about 7–10 days . The skin on your scalp may be more sensitive post-injections, and UV exposure could cause irritation or pigment changes. If you need to be outdoors, wear a breathable hat or scarf. If you have thinning areas where the scalp is more visible, apply a high SPF sunscreen (spray or powder sunscreens made for the scalp are ideal) before going out. Sun protection not only prevents irritation but also safeguards the treated scalp as it heals. Remember to continue using SPF 30+ on the scalp if you’re outdoors in the days following the procedure .
Avoid Heat, Sweat and Swimming: For the first 72 hours after your mesotherapy, steer clear of any activities that can cause excessive heat or sweating on the scalp . This means no vigorous exercise or gym workouts for about 2 days , and avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, or long hot showers/baths for about 3 days . Excess heat and sweat can potentially irritate injection sites and increase the chance of infection or swelling. Likewise, no swimming in pools or the ocean for at least 3–4 days post-treatment . Pools contain chlorine and possibly bacteria that you don’t want entering those injection micro-channels while they’re fresh. If you normally use a hot hair dryer, use a cooler setting for the first few days to avoid overheating the scalp. Essentially, keep your head cool and clean.
Hair Products and Styling: Avoid any chemical hair treatments for at least one week after mesotherapy, just as you did before. This includes hair coloring/dyeing, chemical straightening, perms, or keratin/bonding treatments – give your scalp a break from any harsh chemicals while it heals . Even salon styling products like strong hold gels or sprays should be avoided for a few days. You should also not apply hair oils, medicated topical solutions, or minoxidil for 2–3 days post-treatment, unless Dr. Punit gives you an all-clear earlier . These products might irritate the injection sites or interfere with the treatment’s action. When you do return to regular styling, start gently: for example, it’s fine to use a light, leave-in conditioner or serum after 2-3 days, but watch for any scalp irritation. If you had plans to get a haircut, it’s okay to do a simple cut after 2-3 days, but inform your stylist to be gentle on the scalp.
Lifestyle: No Alcohol, No Smoking (Post): For optimal healing, it’s best to avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24-48 hours after your session as well . Alcohol can dehydrate you and may increase swelling, while smoking impairs blood flow to the scalp. You’ve just nourished your follicles with mesotherapy – continuing healthy habits will complement the treatment. So, focus on hydration (water, coconut water, etc.) and nutrient-rich foods in the days after to support your hair from within.
Expected Side Effects: It’s normal to experience mild redness, swelling, or tenderness on the scalp after mesotherapy. You might feel as if you have mild sunburn on the scalp or tiny bumps; this is a normal inflammatory response and should subside within a few hours to a couple of days . Some women report a slight tightness or tingling in the scalp as well – this is temporary. A small amount of bruising at injection sites can also occur, especially if you have very sensitive skin or were on blood-thinning supplements; any minor bruises typically fade in under a week. Itching can happen as the micro-injections stimulate the skin – do not scratch; if it’s bothersome, contact us for an approved calming lotion. Most of these effects are minor and self-resolving. Downtime is minimal – you can usually go back to your routine or work immediately after the session , just following the care instructions above. If you wish, you can wear a loose-fitting, clean cap or scarf after treatment to cover any redness, but ensure it’s not so tight that it rubs the scalp.
Hair Shedding After Treatment: Because mesotherapy revitalizes hair follicles, in some cases you might notice a slight increase in shedding of weak hairs in the weeks after initial sessions. Don’t be alarmed – this can be a sign that old, thin hairs are making way for new healthier growth. It’s similar to what can happen when starting minoxidil or PRP treatments. Continue with your treatment plan; those follicles are being stimulated to reset. If shedding is excessive or you’re worried, discuss it with Dr. Punit during follow-ups, but it is usually temporary.
Maintain Scalp Hygiene: Keep your scalp clean, but stick to gentle routines. After the initial 48 hours, you can resume your normal shampoo schedule, using a gentle shampoo as noted. Ensure you always use clean towels and pillowcases during the first week post-treatment to reduce any risk of contamination to the scalp. It’s a good practice to sleep on a fresh pillowcase the first night after mesotherapy. If you use tools like laser caps or microneedling devices at home for hair growth, hold off on those for at least a week unless advised otherwise – your scalp needs time to heal without additional micro-injuries.
Follow-up Treatment Sessions: Mesotherapy for hair is typically done as a series of sessions (for example, a course of 4–8 sessions spaced 1 to 4 weeks apart, depending on your personalized plan). For conditions like androgenetic alopecia or hormonal hair thinning, consistency is key. Make sure to attend your sessions as scheduled and follow any additional advice between sessions (such as using supplements, scalp serums, or other therapies that Dr. Punit recommends). The results build up over multiple treatments – many women notice reduced hair fall after a couple of sessions and new baby hairs or improved volume after a few more. Patience and adherence to the plan will yield the best results. Dr. Punit will monitor your progress and may adjust your treatment plan depending on how your hair responds over time.
When to Contact the Clinic: While serious side effects are uncommon, it’s important to stay vigilant. You should contact Opal Radiant (Dr. Punit) promptly if you experience any of the following: worsening pain on the scalp, significant swelling that doesn’t improve after 2-3 days, any signs of infection (such as yellow pus, extensive redness/warmth around injection sites, or fever), or any other symptoms that concern you . In very rare cases an allergic reaction can occur – if you noticed hives on your skin, difficulty breathing, or severe swelling on the face/scalp, seek medical attention immediately (though again, this is exceedingly rare with mesotherapy). Our team is here to help; if something doesn’t feel right, let us know and we will guide you on the next steps. It’s always better to err on the side of caution with post-treatment concerns.
Personalized Support: Remember that at Opal Radiant your care doesn’t end when the session ends. Dr. Punit and our staff will provide you with any personalized instructions based on your individual case. For example, if you are a woman with PCOS, we will ensure complementary measures (like lifestyle or hormonal advice) are in place alongside mesotherapy to tackle the root cause of hair thinning. If you’re a new mother dealing with postpartum hair loss, we understand the sensitivity of your scalp and hair at this time and will adjust treatment intensity accordingly. You will also be advised on supporting your results – this might include nutritional supplements for hair, low-level laser therapy at home, or gentle scalp exercises/massage after a certain period, as appropriate. All these recommendations are tailored to maximize your outcome safely .
Following these pre- and post-care guidelines will help ensure you get the best possible results from your mesotherapy hair treatment while minimizing any risks or discomfort. Mesotherapy is a clinically backed, safe procedure for most women when performed by qualified professionals – and under Dr. Punit’s skilled supervision and Opal’s strict hygiene protocols, adverse effects are very rare . By taking care of your scalp before and after each session, you’re actively contributing to the success of the treatment. If you have any questions or worries at all during your recovery, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to support you at every step of your hair restoration journey. With the right care and expert guidance, you can look forward to healthier, fuller hair and renewed confidence.
Potential Side Effects & Considerations: (for completeness, here are some possible effects – most are minor and temporary)
Mild Redness & Swelling: Expect some redness, pinkness, or mild swelling on the scalp immediately after the injections – this is normal and typically fades within a few hours to a day . The treated areas might feel a bit puffy or warm; this is just due to increased blood flow and the inflammatory healing response.
Tenderness or Bruising: Your scalp could feel tender or sore to the touch for a day or two. Because multiple micro-injections are involved, some patients get small bruises at injection sites (tiny purple spots). Bruising is more likely if you have very sensitive skin or were on blood-thinners despite precautions. Any bruises should heal on their own over about a week . You can gently apply a cool (not ice-cold) compress on day 1 if needed to ease discomfort, but do not apply ice directly to the scalp unless instructed.
Itching or Tingling: As the injections stimulate your scalp, you might experience mild itching or a tingling sensation while it heals . This is usually short-lived. Avoid the urge to scratch. If the itchiness is annoying, ask us about a soothing post-treatment serum. Sometimes a simple saline spray can calm the scalp.
Small Bumps or Nodules: In some cases, you might feel tiny lumps under the skin where injections were done – this can be due to a bit of localized swelling or retention of the injected solution. These small nodules are generally not visible and will typically dissolve on their own within a couple of weeks as the solution disperses . Dr. Punit might advise gentle massage on the area after about one week to help this process, if applicable . If any lump is painful or persists beyond a few weeks, let us know for evaluation (though this is uncommon).
Headache: A mild headache on the day of treatment can occur in a few cases – this might be due to the injections or tension from keeping your head in one position. Staying hydrated and resting usually helps; you can take a plain paracetamol (acetaminophen) if needed, but avoid ibuprofen or aspirin right after treatment, as they can increase bleeding. Any headache should be brief; if you have severe or long-lasting headaches, report it to Dr. Punit.
Infection (Rare): Infection is exceedingly rare, especially given our stringent sterile techniques . However, if post-treatment instructions (hygiene, no swimming, etc.) are not followed, there’s a small risk bacteria could enter injection sites. Signs of a scalp infection would include worsening redness, warmth, pus, or fever. If you suspect infection, contact us immediately so it can be treated promptly . We may prescribe a topical or oral antibiotic to clear it up. Again, this complication is highly unlikely when care instructions are observed.
Allergic Reaction (Rare): We thoroughly review ingredients to avoid any allergens, and mesotherapy cocktails mainly contain vitamins and natural compounds. Allergic reactions are not common. Still, if you know you have many allergies, discuss this before treatment. During treatment, if you were to feel lightheaded, nauseated, or develop hives, inform Dr. Punit right away (our staff is trained to handle such situations). Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) to mesotherapy is extremely rare, but we are equipped to manage emergencies. Post-treatment, if you notice systemic allergic symptoms, seek emergency care . Fortunately, our screening and the nature of the solution make this scenario very uncommon.
Unsuitable Candidates: As a consideration, not every individual is a candidate for mesotherapy. Women who are pregnant or currently breastfeeding must wait, as noted, for safety. Also, if someone has uncontrolled diabetes, bleeding disorders, or active scalp disease, those conditions need managing before undergoing mesotherapy . Dr. Punit will ensure the treatment is appropriate for you. If mesotherapy isn’t suitable, he will recommend alternative options.
By adhering to your pre/post-care plan and being aware of these considerations, you can significantly minimize any risks. Rest assured that mesotherapy has been used by dermatologists worldwide for many years as a safe method to tackle hair loss and thinning in women . At Opal Radiant, our women-only clinic environment and dermatologist-led team mean you’ll receive the highest standard of care at every step. Your safety and results are our top priority. If you ever have questions or need reassurance about any aspect of your treatment or recovery, we encourage you to reach out. We’re here to support your hair revival journey from start to finish – and to make it as comfortable and effective as possible. Here’s to healthier, stronger hair ahead!
