How to Care for a Hair Transplant

A hair transplant is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures for men. If performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, the results are usually quite pleasing aesthetically. However, taking good care of transplanted hair in the initial few days is very important for the hair growth. You must take care not to damage the hair roots in any way during this healing phase of hair transplant, or the hairs will not grow. The following suggestions will show you how to take appropriate care of your hair transplant during this critical period.

1. Take your medications

You will be given or prescribed some medicines after the procedure. Typically these are an antibiotic and a mild pain-relief tablet. Take them in the prescribed dosage at regular intervals. They prevent infection and help to keep you comfortable.

2. Use salt water spray

Saline or salt water spray helps to keep the transplant area clean. It also helps with faster removal of scabs and promotes moist healing. Starting the next day after procedure, spray saline on the transplanted area generously, wait for two minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel. Repeat after 1 to 2 hours. Do this for five to six days or until the scalp is clean.

3. Keep the scalp covered

Avoid direct sunlight or extremes of temperature. Either of these extremes these may damage the transplanted hairs. If going outdoors, use a clean cotton cap, a hat, scarf or bandana to keep the transplanted area protected from the elements. Be careful when removing your headgear, to avoid pulling out a graft or two.

4. Don't scratch

The transplanted area may feel itchy for a few days. Avoid scratching or picking on the scabs or a hair root might get dislodged. If you accidentally dislodge a hair root, do not try to put it back. If the dislodgement point is bleeding, use a clean ear bud (swab) to compress the point until it stops. Call your physician and take his or her advice.

5. Wash your hairs

For the first few days, use a gentle cleansing solution, such as baby shampoo. Use your hands to lather up the shampoo and clean the scalp gently but thoroughly using circular motions. Avoid excessive rubbing. Rinse with clean water. Do not use a high pressure shower, or expose it to either very hot or cold water. Pat dry.

6. Styling your hairs

Combing can be done but be careful not to rub the transplanted area with the teeth of the comb. Hair cutting and colour and styling products should be avoided for a minimum of two weeks.

7. Avoid the following potentially damaging activities:

• Heavy exercise should be avoided for 4 weeks.
• Swimming is not appropriate for 4 weeks, especially in public pools.
• Steam and sauna for 4 weeks.
• Topical scalp medications for 2 weeks.
• Hair fibers for 2 weeks.