Deciding to have a hair transplant treatment is a huge step, but maintaining that success is more challenging. The ultimate work happens 10 days after the hair transplant. Throughout this time the hair grafts will gradually integrate and become a part of your scalp.
We know you are given numerous rules/instructions and that it can feel overwhelming, don’t worry. We are going to take you through the key, easy steps for great post-hair-transplant care during this significant time. Following this guide will be the number one secret to great hair transplant aftercare.
Days 1 to 3: The Super Gentle, VIP Treatment
The first 72 hours represent when your new grafts are at their most fragile state. Your job is to protect, protect, protect.
- Be a Statue: Yes, you will want to touch those little spots but please, no! Your grafts are baby seedlings, and a bump to them may not allow them to root. Just look, don’t touch.
- Swelling is Normal: You may wake looking a bit swollen in the forehead or eye area, but don’t panic. Your clinic provided you with medication for this, so use it accordingly.
- The Pillow Scenario: This is the most important rule for the first few days. You will need to sleep at an up-angle position approximately 45-degree angle (think watching TV in bed). You can use 2-3 pillows or sleep in a recliner-style chair. This helps with swelling but most importantly it prevents your new grafts from rubbing against your pillow.
- Washing: Within the initial few days, you may use a saline spray that has been provided for you. It’s like giving your grafts a light misting bath. The clinic will suggest that you use the spray often to keep the grafts moist.
Days 4 to 7: Softening the Ground
By day 4, you have already made it through the main bump and are now beginning the essential cleaning process to allow those new hairs to breathe.
- Your Gentle Wash Routine: This is what you’ve been waiting for regarding the hair transplant aftercare process! You will be washing your hair using the special shampoo/foam provided to you. You will gently dab the foam on the implanted or recipient area and leave it set for about 10 minutes, before rinsing. You will never rub or scrub.
- The Scabs: You’ll probably see small, dry blood spots and crusts (scabs) around the grafts. If you do see these, remember not to scratch or pick them off. The gentle washing process over the next couple of days will help soften them.
- Lifestyle Checks: 10 days after hair transplant, you have to put a halt to heavy exercise, weightlifting, or anything that causes you to sweat heavily. Sweating will irritate the grafts, so avoid heavy sweating. There is no harm in a slow walk for exercise.
- Sun Safety: Another post-hair transplant care is to avoid direct contact with the sun. Wear a loose cap or hat, if going out.
Days 8 to 10: The Critical Milestone
At 8 to 10 days after hair surgery, the grafts are typically stable, and a person can now begin to clean their scalp and remove the crusts.
- A few days after a hair transplant you usually will be directed by your surgeon at about day 8-9 to remove the crusts with a soft massage while washing. Removing the crusts from the scalp is important because they will slow the healing.
- Soak the scabs with your foam/lotion for about 30 minutes. Use your fingers, not nails to gently rub on the crust while moving your fingers in tiny circles. The crust should be easy to remove, but if not then try some other time, but don’t do it forcefully.
- Once the scabs have fallen off (around Day 10), you can start washing your hair with more confidence, but with gentle care.
Taking care of your scalp by doing post-hair transplant care will help give a strong base for future growth. This does not matter if you are looking for advanced hair regrowth treatment in Delhi or if you are just maintaining your results.
Tips for Hair Transplant Aftercare
Hitting the 10-day mark means the war has been won, but the journey is still on. Follow the rules to maximise your long-term results:
- First, Doctor’s Orders: Your doctor’s advice should be your topmost priority. If you had a hair transplant in Hyderabad, Delhi, or anywhere else, your surgeon is your ultimate guide.
- Quit the Habits: Alcohol and smoking will slow healing; avoid these habits for several weeks.
- Patience: The new hair will shed a small bit (this is referred to as ‘shock loss’ and is normal) before it begins to grow permanently. Don’t stress. Whether you had hair loss treatment in Delhi or any large city, patience is the key.
Final Thoughts
The first 10 days after a hair transplant are very critical. During this time, you have to constantly pamper your scalp, follow the washing instructions, and then let the scabs shed naturally. With patience, you have to allow the new hair to get settled. Trust the process! Then, before you know it, you’ll start to enjoy the incredible results of your restoration!
