Hair transplant aftercare is an important process that can affect your hair transplant results greatly. A good hair transplant is only possible with a combination of an experienced team, realistic expectation, right technique and attentive aftercare.
That’s why it’s understandable that patients have a lot of questions regarding the post-hair transplant process. We have answered your post-hair transplant FAQs.
You can see all the frequently asked questions below. If your question is not there, please feel free to reach us and our medical team will give you a detailed answer.
Can I wear a hat after a hair transplant?
Many people want to wear a hat after their hair transplant procedure whether this is to protect their head from the sun or to cover up the transplant area before they are ready to show their new hair to others. Normally, you need to wait for the newly transplanted hair follicles to settle in before you can wear a cap or a hat. This process usually takes 10-14 days after a hair transplant procedure. However, our clinic provides a special hat that can be worn after a hair transplant.
When can I touch my hair after a transplant?
It is important to give the transplanted hair follicles time to settle in before touching the area. In the first few days, you will see scabs will form around the transplanted hair follicles. Do not scratch, touch or peel these scabs to avoid any scarring.
You should not touch the transplanted area at all during the first 3-5 days. After this period, you can gently touch the area to apply itching ointment to the scabs. It is usually safe to touch the area after 2 weeks, however, it is always a good idea to be as gentle as possible.
How long after a hair transplant can I exercise?
Exercising increases your blood pressure and may lead to bleeding or damage to newly transplanted hair follicles. This is why it is advised to avoid any strenuous activities for the first 2 weeks after your hair transplant procedure. You can start training lightly after 14 days.
Workout
After two weeks, you can start with lighter workouts to ease in and avoid over-sweating.
Running
Because running is one of the most strenuous activities, it might be a good idea to start slow after the 2 weeks period.
Swimming
Swimming is different to any other activity since it would involve either using a swimming cap or getting your hair wet. It is advised to avoid keeping the transplanted area wet until the healing process is complete. Furthermore, seawater and pool water may contain irritants and pollutants that you want to avoid during the healing period.
Usually, it can take 1-2 months before patients are able to go back to swimming.
When can I sleep on my side after a hair transplant?
To not disturb the newly transplanted hair follicles, you should avoid sleeping on your side and stomach for the first 10 days after your surgery. Our team will provide you with a special pillow for sleeping.
Can I drink coffee after a hair transplant?
Since caffeine increases your blood pressure, it is advisable to avoid drinking coffee 24 hours before and after the operation. Also, it’s recommended not to consume other caffeinated drinks such as coke, energy drinks, black and green tea.
Can I drink alcohol after a hair transplant?
It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol for the first 10 days after your surgery to ensure that it does not interfere with the healing and adaptation of the transplanted hair follicles.
Can I smoke after a hair transplant?
Smoking has negative impacts on blood circulation and clotting. It is advisable to quit smoking for 10 days after your hair transplant.
Can I use toppik after a hair transplant?
Toppik or hair fibres can be great to camouflage the transplanted areas however you should wait for the scabs to fall out and recipient area to get healed before you apply toppik. This process usually takes minimum of 1 month after the operation.
When can I shower after a hair transplant?
In order to not disturb the transplanted hair follicles, you should avoid washing your head for at least 2 days by yourself, but you can wash your body, not your head anytime after the operation. Your first post-op wash should be done a day after the operation by a professional.
After the first 2 days, make sure to be gentle with your hair and use baby shampoo until your hair follicles are securely settled in and your scabs are gone; this proess generally takes 10 days.
When can I use normal shampoo after a hair transplant?
You can go back to your normal shampoo after 2 weeks of your hair transplant operation. However, please consult with your surgeon before moving on to your normal shampoo.
When can I use minoxidil after a hair transplant?
You should alwyas plan the use of minoxidil with your surgeon. However, usually, it is safe to use minoxidil 10 days after your procedure.
Can I drive after a hair transplant?
Driving after a hair transplant is not recommended, but the answer depends on what type of anaesthetic procedure you had. Hair transplant is geerally conducted under local anaesthesia. If you were put on strong sedatives, it is not advised to be driving for the next 24 hours after the surgery.
Can I have sex after a hair transplant?
Sex can lead to excessive sweating and increased blood pressure. This is why you should avoid having sex for at least 1 week after a hair transplant.
Can I wear a wig after a hair transplant?
Because wigs create pressure on the scalp, they can negatively affect the transplanted hair follicles especially during the rcovery process. To avoid damaging your newly transplanted hair, wait for at least 2 weeks before wearing a wig.
Can I dye my hair after a hair transplant?
Hair dyes contain a lot of strong chemicals that can irritate the transplanted or donor area. Just to be safe, you should wait for 4-6 weeks before dying your hair after a hair transplant.