- By Admin
- Hair Transplant
- December 20, 2024
Post Hair Transplant Care: What to Do and What to Avoid for Best Results
Introduction
A hair transplant gives long-lasting, natural-looking results—but only when aftercare is followed properly. What you do in the first 7–14 days directly affects graft survival, healing, and the final density.
This guide covers essential dos and don'ts after a hair transplant to help you get the best possible outcome.
1. What to Do After a Hair Transplant
A. Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions Strictly
Each clinic may have specific protocols. Always prioritize your surgeon's instructions over anything online.
B. Sleep With Head Elevated
For the first 3–5 days, sleep at a 45° angle to reduce swelling.
Use extra pillows or a travel neck pillow to avoid rubbing the grafts.
C. Keep the Transplanted Area Clean
Your doctor will guide you on how to wash your scalp. Usually:
- Gentle saline spray or prescribed solution on grafts
- First wash after 48–72 hours
- Pat dry—never rub
Keeping the area clean prevents infection and promotes healing.
D. Take Medications on Time
Common prescriptions include:
- Antibiotics
- Anti-swelling medicines
- Pain relievers
- Hair growth stimulants (as advised)
E. Eat a Nutritious, Protein-Rich Diet
Your body needs protein and micronutrients to heal.
- Eggs, lentils, curd, paneer
- Nuts, seeds
- Vitamin C-rich fruits
- Plenty of water
F. Be Gentle With the Scalp
For the first 10–14 days:
- Avoid touching the grafts
- Avoid scratching even if itchy
- Wear loose cotton caps if necessary
Grafts are delicate until they fully anchor.
G. Use Only Recommended Hair Products
Avoid commercial shampoos immediately.
Use baby shampoo or clinic-provided shampoo during the early healing phase.
H. Stay Hydrated
Hydration improves tissue healing and reduces swelling.
I. Expect "Shock Loss"
Some transplanted hair will fall out during weeks 3–6.
This is normal—the roots remain and new growth starts around 3–4 months.
2. What to Avoid After a Hair Transplant
A. Do NOT Touch, Rub, or Pick the Grafts
Even slight friction in the first days can dislodge grafts.
B. Avoid Heavy Workouts
No gym, running, or swimming for 10–14 days.
Sweat and increased blood pressure can affect grafts.
C. Avoid Sun Exposure
For 3–4 weeks, stay away from direct sunlight on the scalp.
Use a loose hat if going outdoors.
D. No Smoking or Alcohol
For at least 1–2 weeks.
They reduce blood flow, slow healing, and can weaken graft survival.
E. Avoid Hair Styling Products
No gel, wax, spray, mousse, serums, or oils for at least 3–4 weeks unless your surgeon approves.
F. Avoid Hot Water Showers & Steam
Hot water can irritate the scalp and loosen grafts.
Use lukewarm or cool water only.
G. Don't Wear Tight Caps or Helmets
For the first 10–14 days, avoid:
- Caps that touch grafts
- Helmets
- Tight headgear
H. Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach
It increases swelling and can irritate the donor/grafted area.
I. Avoid Scrubbing the Donor Area
Let scabs fall naturally between days 7–12.
3. Timeline of Recovery
Days 0–3
- Swelling and redness
- No touching of grafts
- Start gentle saline or prescribed spray
Days 4–7
- Begin gentle washing
- Sleep normally after day 5
Days 7–14
- Scabs soften and fall
- Grafts become more secure
Weeks 3–6
- Shock loss happens
- Scalp may look unchanged
Months 3–6
- New baby hair appears
- Texture slowly improves
Months 9–12
- Thickening, density increases
- Final results visible by 12–15 months
4. When to Call Your Surgeon
Seek medical attention if you notice:
- Excessive swelling or redness
- Pus or foul smell
- Sudden severe pain
- Fever
- Bleeding that doesn't stop
Conclusion
A successful hair transplant depends not just on the procedure, but on how well you care for your scalp afterward.
By following proper dos and don'ts, you ensure maximum graft survival, smooth healing, and thicker, natural-looking results.
