On this page
The first 10 days after a hair transplant are the most delicate period, while the grafts anchor into the skin. During this time they are not yet fully settled and can be damaged by knocks, friction or incorrect washing. The months that follow are a period of patience: the hair first sheds, then gradually grows back and thickens.
On this page you will find the general framework of the written instructions you receive after surgery. Your personal instructions always take priority; if you are unsure about anything, do not hesitate to message us on WhatsApp.
The first 3 days
- Sleep: For the first 3–5 nights, sleep on your back with your head slightly raised (on two pillows or a neck pillow). Make sure the treated area does not touch the pillow.
- Swelling: Mild swelling on the forehead and around the eyes is possible; it usually eases by day 3–4. Not bending your head forward and applying cold as advised help reduce it.
- Medication: Take the painkillers and other medication you are given as instructed.
- Do not touch: Do not touch, scratch or rub the treated area.
- Hats: Avoid wearing a hat in the first days. If necessary, a wide, loose-fitting hat can be worn without pressing on the treated area.
The first wash and those that follow
The first wash usually takes place at the clinic the day after surgery, and you are shown how to wash at home. After that, washing is usually done every day for 10 days as follows:
- Gently apply the lotion you are given to the recipient and donor areas and leave it for the stated time.
- Rinse the lotion off with lukewarm water at low pressure, or using a cup.
- Lather the shampoo in your palm and apply it to the treated area by dabbing lightly with your fingertips, without pressing.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Dry the scalp by pressing gently with a paper towel; do not rub. If you use a hairdryer, keep it on the cold setting and at a distance.
From around days 7–10, light circular movements with the fingertips can be used to soften the scabs. Never pick the scabs off by force.
The first 2 weeks
- Smoking and alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 2 weeks. Smoking reduces blood flow and affects how the grafts are nourished.
- Sun: Protect the treated area from direct sunlight. If you need to go out, wear a loose-fitting hat.
- Sweat: Avoid environments and activities that make you sweat heavily.
- Bending and lifting: Avoid bending your head forward and lifting heavy objects in the first days.
The first month
- Exercise: Light walking is fine after a few days. For running, weights and intense exercise, waiting 3–4 weeks is usually recommended, and longer for contact sports.
- Pools, sea, sauna, steam room: Stay away for at least 1 month. Chlorinated and salt water and high heat can irritate healing skin.
- Haircuts: Scissor cuts in the transplanted area are usually possible after 1 month; clippers later still. The donor area can be trimmed sooner.
- Hair dye: Wait at least 1–2 months before dyeing or chemical treatments.
Month-by-month recovery timeline
- Days 1–10: Scabs form and fall away with regular washing. Redness fades.
- Weeks 2–8: Some transplanted hairs fall out. This shock loss is normal; the follicle stays in place.
- Months 2–3: The treated area may look similar to how it did before surgery. This period requires patience.
- Months 3–4: New hair starts to grow as fine, weak strands. Small pimple-like bumps may appear in some areas.
- Month 6: A large share of the hair has grown; a clear change is visible.
- Month 9: Hair thickens and density increases.
- Months 12–18: The final look develops. At the crown it can take up to 18 months.
When should you contact us?
Get in touch without delay if you notice:
- Increasing pain, warmth and redness in the recipient or donor area
- Yellow or green discharge
- A high temperature
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Significant swelling that does not ease within a few days
You can share your recovery with us by sending photos on WhatsApp. For supportive treatments after a transplant, see our PRP hair treatment page.
Frequently asked questions
When can I wear a hat after a hair transplant?
A loose hat can be worn carefully from the first days; for tight beanies and helmets, waiting at least 2–3 weeks is recommended.
Why is the transplanted hair falling out?
This is shock loss and it is normal. The hair shaft sheds, the follicle stays in place and begins producing new hair.
When can I go back to work?
For desk jobs, usually after 2–5 days. Physically demanding jobs may require a longer break.
When can I clean off the scabs?
From around days 7–10, using light circular movements while washing. Do not pick the scabs off by force.
The information on this page is for general guidance only; diagnosis and treatment decisions are made by a physician after examination. Results vary from person to person.