washing hair after hair transplant

A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Hair After Hair Transplant

washing hair after hair transplant

July 28, 2022 by

Dr. Semra Akıntürk

If you’ve undergone a hair transplant, it’s important to know the correct way of washing hair after hair transplant. This will prevent any infections and protect your new follicles from any damage.

In this post, we’ll teach you the best way to shampoo your hair after a hair transplant.

So, keep reading for more tips!

When to get your first wash after hair transplant?

After a hair transplant, it is important to keep your incisions clean and dry. You will likely be given specific instructions on how to care for your incisions.

In general, you will need to avoid washing your hair for the first 48 hours after a hair transplant. Most hair transplant clinics in Turkey will do the first hair wash at the clinic. This way the patient can get all the instructions and the right way to wash their hair.

Steps for washing your hair after a hair transplant

Hair wash after hair transplant goes through 4 main and simple steps. All the products that you need post-operation will be provided by your clinic. This includes a mild shampoo, lotion or moisturizer, and ointment. In Turkey, these are usually included within the hair transplant package and you don’t have to pay extra for them.

STEP 1: Apply the lotion to the scalp

The first thing you have to do in your washing routine is to apply enough amount of the lotion to both the donor and transplanted areas. Then keep it on your scalp for 30 minutes before rinsing it off.

This will help to soften the scabs and any blood clots after the surgery.

Step 2: Rinse off the lotion

The next step is to rinse off the lotion entirely using lukewarm water. It’s very important at this stage to adjust the pressure of the water especially if you’re using a shower head. Because too much pressure will damage the grafts and dislodge them.

If available, we recommend our patients get a rinsing cup this way they won’t have to worry about water pressure.

Step 3: Start Shampooing your scalp

After washing off the lotion, now you can start shampooing your head. To do this, put a small amount of the shampoo provided by the clinic on the palm of your hands and lather it up. Then start massaging your scalp very gently in circular motions without putting too much pressure for at least the first 7 days.

Finally, you can wash the shampoo with lukewarm water and use a soft towel or kitchen paper to soak up the excess water and dry the scalp.

When drying your scalp please make sure not to rub the towel against the scalp or else the grafts will be damaged.

NOTE: After the first week, you can start applying a bit more pressure while massaging your scalp. But make sure not to pick the scabs with the tips of your fingers.

Step 4: Apply the ointment

The last step after drying your scalp is to apply the ointment on both the transplanted and donor area. Take a dime-sized amount and spread it on both areas. This will make the wounds heal faster.

How many days should I wash my hair after a hair transplant?

The washing hair routine after hair transplant must be done either daily or every other day for 2 weeks. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and wash your hair in the right order to ensure better recovery. After this period of time, your scalp should be clean and all the scabs should have fallen off.

If after two weeks you still feel that the scabs are not completely gone please consult with your doctor. They will be able to tell you the best way to remove the scabs from the scalp.

Why is washing important after getting a hair transplant?

Washing your hair is very important after a hair transplant. It will help to remove any blood clots, and scabs from the scalp. This will allow the new hairs to grow.

Moreover, it is beneficial in accelerating the recovery process after hair transplantation and prevents infections by keeping the scalp clean.

When can I go back to my normal washing routine after a hair transplant?

You can start using your regular shampoo 14 days after your hair restoration surgery. But make sure to avoid any hair products that contain harsh chemicals that may cause irritation and inflammation.

You can opt for gentle and organic shampoos or medical shampoos that promote hair growth.

Products to use when washing your head after hair transplantation

When it comes to choosing the right products to use on your scalp, we always recommend our patients to use the ones provided by their clinic.

Your care kit will consist of:

  1. A mild shampoo.
  2. A hair lotion or moisturizer.
  3. An ointment cream to promote wound healing.

Additional products you can get include:

  1. A soft towel or paper kitchen to dry your scalp.
  2. A low-pressure head shower or just simply get a rinsing cup.

Tips to keep in mind while washing your hair

  • Do not wash your hair immediately after your hair transplant. You must wait 48 hours to do your first hair wash.
  • Avoid scrubbing too vigorously, as this can damage the new follicles.
  • Avoid scratching or picking at the scabs, otherwise, it will cause infections.
  • Be sure to avoid using hot water. Instead, you can adjust your water temperature to lukewarm.
  • It is also important to avoid using a blow dryer and heat, as this can cause inflammation.
  • Adjust the pressure of the shower head. Ideally, you can use a rinsing cup to avoid a high flow of water.

If you follow all these instructions in the right order you will prevent any infections and have a clean scalp free of scabs in just 2 weeks.

If you are still not sure of how to wash your hair at home after a hair transplant, you can watch the video below. And if you still have any questions you can fill out the contact form and our patient consultant will gladly answer all your concerns.


FAQs

How often to wash your hair after hair transplant?

The washing hair routine after hair transplant must be done either daily or every other day for 2 weeks. And don’t forget that the first wash starts 48 hours (2 days) after the surgery.

How can I wash my hair 2 weeks after hair transplant?

After the first 2 weeks, you can go back to your normal washing routine. It’s better to use a mild shampoo or a shampoo that promotes hair growth and is free of harsh chemicals.

How can I clean my head after hair transplant?

To clean your head after a hair transplant, you must first apply a lotion to the donor and transplanted areas and wait for 30 minutes. Then wash it off and start shampooing the scalp by putting the shampoo on your hands and lathering it up to make a foam. Now you can start massaging your scalp gently using circular motions. After rinsing the shampoo with lukewarm and low-pressure water pat your scalp dry with a soft towel and apply a dime-sized ointment cream into the recipient and donor areas.

How long after hair transplant are grafts secure?

It takes the newly transplanted grafts 14 days to adjust to the new environment and securely attach themselves to the scalp. After 2 weeks there is no risk of the grafts being dislodged or coming out of their location.

Written By

Dr. Semra Akıntürk

Dr. Semra Akıntürk is a renowned dermatologist based in Istanbul, Turkey. With extensive training and experience in skin health and hair transplant, she specializes in various dermatological treatments, including cosmetic procedures and skin disease management. Dr. Akıntürk is known for her patient-centered approach, utilizing the latest advancements in dermatology to provide personalized care. She is actively involved in continuing education and often shares her expertise through workshops and publications, contributing to the broader medical community.

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