
When is the Best Time to Start Working Out After Hair Transplant?

August 1, 2022 by
Dr. Semra Akıntürk
If you’re like many people who have had a hair transplant, you’re probably eager to go back to working out after a hair transplant. But when is the right time to start your workout routine again? And what types of exercises are safe to do?
This blog post will address those questions and provide some tips on how to return to the gym after a hair transplant safely.
Keep reading for more information!
Is it OK to work out after a hair transplant?
Although it may be tempting to hit the gym and exercise after a hair transplant, it is best to wait until your scalp has fully healed. This includes avoiding any exercise, even light exercise, for at least two weeks.
The reason for this is that strenuous activities can increase blood flow to the scalp, potentially causing the transplanted hair follicles to become displaced. Additionally, working out can lead to sweating, which may irritate the surgical site and slow down the recovery process after a hair transplant.
What will happen if I exercise after a hair transplant?
If you start working out after a hair transplant and before the recommended period, you run the risk of having unfavorable results. And that’s because exercising can cause:
High Blood Pressure
An increased rate of blood pressure can increase the possibility of bleeding. Additionally, high blood pressure can prevent the grafts from taking root and eventually dislodging them.
Infections and Bacteria Build-Up
Working out after a hair transplant can cause infections and bacteria to build up on the wounds due to sweating. Additionally, sweating may require frequent washing of the hair after a hair transplant, which increases the risk of friction and rubbing the grafts.
Stretching and Scarring
In case of getting an FUT hair transplant, exercises such as sit-ups that stretch the neck can tear the stitches and prevent the wound from healing properly.
When can I start working out after a hair transplant?
Generally, we recommend that patients wait two weeks before starting some light workouts. However, 3 days after the surgery, they can go for short walks that are not too exhausting.
If patients decide to go out for a walk, they need to take a rest every half an hour and stay hydrated by drinking not less than 2 liters of water daily.
What kind of exercises are allowed after a hair transplant?
Two weeks after a hair transplant patients can start doing some light exercises such as:
- Cycling.
- Walking on a treadmill.
- Doing yoga.
On the other hand, all types of vigorous workouts that require more physical activity and strain the body can be resumed one month post hair transplant. These include:
- Cardio.
- Weight lifting.
- Contact sports such as football and basketball.
- Swimming.
- High-intensity Interval Training, aka (HIIT).
FAQs
How long to wait to work out after a hair transplant?
Patients should wait at least 14 days before resuming any physical activities. After two weeks, patients can begin doing some light workouts that exclude weightlifting or high-intensity sports. One month after a hair transplant, patients are typically cleared to resume their regular exercise routine at the gym.
Can I lift weights after a hair transplant?
We recommend that anyone who has recently undergone a hair transplant wait for one month before resuming their regular workout routine, including weightlifting.
Can you do pushups after a hair transplant?
Pushups are a type of strength training that requires high resistance. Therefore, it’s better to avoid pushups for one month after a hair transplant.
Can I run after a hair transplant?
Running can increase your blood pressure, which may lead to bleeding. It can also prevent the transplanted hair from taking root and dislodging itself. Therefore, it’s best to avoid running for 2-3 weeks after a hair transplant.
Can you sweat after a hair transplant?
Sweating after a hair transplant, especially during the first two weeks, can increase the risk of infections, as bacteria can build up on the micro-wounds. Additionally, sweating will require you to wash more than once daily, increasing the chances of touching the grafts.
Why can’t you exercise after a hair transplant?
The reason you may not be able to work out after a hair transplant is that physical activity can slow down the healing process. It also causes some complications such as infections, bleeding, and dislodging of the grafts.
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.