Once the hair transplant is done, then comes the next challenge is to maintain that treatment. 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 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, those little spots will definitely tempt you to put your hands on them but please, don’t! Your grafts are like infant plants, and a bump to them may not let them grow. Just look, don’t touch.
- Swelling is Normal: You may find yourself with a slightly swollen forehead or eye area in the morning, but don’t panic. Your clinic has given you medication for this, so take it as directed.
- The Pillow Scenario: This is the most important rule for the first few days. You will need to sleep at an up-angle position of about 45 degrees (think of watching TV in bed). You can put 2-3 pillows together or sleep in a recliner-style chair. This does help with swelling but what is most important is that it stops your new grafts from rubbing against your pillow.
- Washing: During the very first days, you may be allowed to use a saline spray that has been prepared for you. It is like giving your grafts a very light watering. The clinic will recommend that you use the spray frequently in order to keep the grafts hydrated.
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 part of the hair transplant aftercare treatment is what you have been waiting for! During this time you can only use the prescribed shampoo/foam. Gently apply the foam to the transplanted area and leave it for 10 minutes, and then wash it off.
- The Scabs: It is quite likely that you will find small, dry blood spots and crusts (scabs) around the grafts. In case you find these, do not scratch them or pick them off. The gentle washing process that you will be carrying out in the next couple of days will help soften them.
- Lifestyle Checks: 10 days after a hair transplant, you can’t do any activity that will cause heavy sweating. Sweating can loosen the grafting. Walking slowly to get some exercise will do you no harm.
- Sun Safety: Another post-hair transplant care is to avoid direct contact with the sun. If you are going out, wear a loose cap or hat.
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.
- After the scabs have dropped off (approximately Day 10), it is possible to wash the hair a little more freely but still gently.
Giving proper attention to your scalp through post-hair transplant care is like planting a healthy seed for the next growth.
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 Mumbai, 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 the best hair transplant in Pune or any large city, patience is the key.
Note: You must understand the hair transplant cost in Chennai or a different city anywhere in India before you decide to get a hair transplant.
Final Thoughts
The period of the first 10 days after a hair transplant, is extremely important. Your scalp should be taken care of with love and attention all the time during these days. 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!
