After my hair transplant, I realized just how little practical information there is to help patients. Together with the Hair Back App Team I’m sharing my hair transplant journey. Washing your hair after a hair transplant is scary, but this guide will help you do it correctly for the best hair transplant recovery.
In this video, I get my first hair wash at the clinic, a crucial step in the recovery. This wash, done the day after the procedure, allows the nurse to assess the healing progress, demonstrate proper at-home care, and gently clean the scalp. Before beginning the wash, the nurse will carefully remove the bandage and assess the scalp's healing progress. They will check for any clots in the recipient area to ensure healthy blood flow. Using a fine needle, the nurse will treat the recipient area (where the grafts were placed). Next, they will gently scrub the donor area (where the hair follicles were harvested) to remove any clots.
Extra tips:
I show how to perform a gentle post-hair transplant washing routine, which should be done once a day. This is essential for protecting grafts, promoting healing, and supporting hair growth after a hair transplant.
I get help washing my hair from my wife. Having someone assist with washing your hair after a transplant makes it easier to reach every spot, apply products evenly, and protect delicate grafts for optimal healing.
Step 1: Application of Moisturizing Foam
The person assisting should gently dab moisturizing foam onto both the transplanted and donor areas, taking care not to rub. They should allow the foam to remain on the scalp for 12–14 minutes to hydrate the skin, reduce itching, and soften scabs for added comfort.
Step 2: Application of Restoring Shampoo
The assistant should lather a small amount of shampoo in their hands and lightly spread it over the transplant area, avoiding any rubbing. From day 5, they may gently rub shampoo into the donor area, paying attention to sensitive spots.
Step 3: Rinsing with Cold Water
Using a carafe or bottle, the assistant should pour cold water gently over the scalp, taking care to avoid direct water pressure that might disturb the grafts.
Step 4: Patting Dry with a Soft Paper Towel
The assistant should use a soft, clean paper towel to gently pat the scalp dry, avoiding any rubbing that could disrupt the delicate grafts.
Step 5: Application of Bepanthen Plus Cream
Finally, the assistant should apply Bepanthen Plus cream to the donor area only. Beginning on day 4, they can gently rub the cream in to help support healing and reduce the risk of infection.
In this video, I return to the hospital for a professional scab-removal session, a step you’ll likely perform yourself at home 10 days after your hair transplant.
The first 10 days after a hair transplant are crucial for the healing process. The HBA Washing Checklist covers everything you need to know for washing your hair during this critical period. By following these steps, you'll be setting the foundation for a smooth recovery and the best possible results.
Most clinics recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours after your hair transplant before washing your hair. Your first wash is done at the clinic, where they’ll show you how to safely clean your scalp and teach you the proper at-home washing techniques to protect the transplanted grafts.
You can start transitioning to a more normal hair-washing routine around two weeks after your transplant. However, avoid vigorous rubbing and high water pressure on the transplant area for at least one month to ensure the grafts remain undisturbed. Always follow your surgeon’s specific guidelines.
Limiting hair washing to once a day, ideally in the morning for optimal recovery. Washing once a day is gentle enough to keep the scalp clean while allowing sufficient time for your scalp to rest and recover between washes.
It’s generally recommended to use a mild, post-transplant shampoo for at least the first two weeks. After this period, and if approved by your doctor, you can begin using a regular shampoo again. For best results, choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid potential irritation.
You should not shower your scalp the first two weeks after your hair transplant, as you should avoid letting direct water pressure hit the transplant area. Instead, use a carafe or a smooth-edged bottle to rinse your scalp with cold water gently. Once your specialist gives you the green light to shower, avoid steam or high-pressure settings.
One Response
Does the scab removal always happen at the hospital or is this something you can do at home?