How to Wash Your Hair after FUE Hair Transplant

Patients planning to undergo FUE hair transplants often ask how soon they can wash their hair after the procedure, and what precautions are necessary for the process. This is an important question because the outcome of an FUE hair transplant doesn’t just depend on how the procedure went, but also on the quality of postoperative care, which includes hair washing. Here are post-operative hair washing tips from the experts at Ziering Medical to help inform patients and those looking into hair transplant procedures how best to care for their hair post procedure. 

Washing Your Hair after FUE Hair Transplant

1. Wait for at least 48 hours after the procedure before washing your hair. This will allow the hair follicles to settle in their new location and reduce the risk of dislodging them.
2. Use lukewarm water to wet your hair gently. Do not use hot water, as it can damage the transplanted hair follicles.
3. Apply a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to your hair, and massage it gently onto your scalp. Do not rub vigorously, as this can cause the hair follicles to come loose.
4. Rinse the shampoo out of your hair with lukewarm water.
5. Apply a gentle, non-alcoholic conditioner to your hair, avoiding your scalp. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse it out with lukewarm water.
6. Pat your hair dry with a soft towel. Do not rub your hair vigorously, as this can cause damage to the newly transplanted hair follicles.
7. Avoid using hair styling products, hairdryers, or other heat styling tools for at least two weeks after the procedure.
8. Do not scratch or pick at your scalp, as this can damage the transplanted hair follicles.
9. Consult with your doctor or surgeon for specific post-operative instructions tailored to your unique situation.

Other Postoperative Advice

Will I be uncomfortable after my hair transplant? 

Immediately after an FUE surgery, a light dressing is applied and patients can return the next day to have it removed. Usually there is minimal discomfort and swelling of the scalp after FUE operations, so oral pain medications will be prescribed. 

Can I exercise after getting a hair transplant? 

Patients can help optimize their healing process by refraining from physical activities or exercises that can raise the heart rate or cause perspiration, as sweat can cause the scalp to itch and is not suitable for the hair grafts.

Can I drink alcohol after getting a hair transplant? 

Refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol as these affect your body’s blood supply and impair healing. 

What should I eat after getting a hair transplant? 

A balanced diet full of nutrients and antioxidants is recommended to promote healing and hydration.

Can I go outside after getting a hair transplant? 

The scalp should be protected from direct sunlight. The transplanted areas should be protected from sunburn for at least the first three months.

How soon can I return to my normal activities after a hair transplant? 

Patients can return to their normal routines after 10 to 14 days. They can resume normal sleeping positions, hair washing routines, and physical activities.

Can you dye your hair after a hair transplant?

Patients can color their hair one month after the procedure. 

For improved FUE hair transplant results, your doctors may prescribe other treatments to promote follicle healing and growth such as medication like Rogaine and Propecia as well as therapies such as Z-Factors, platelet-rich plasma and red light therapy or lasers. 

Takeaway 

For more information regarding postoperative care for FUE hair transplant patients, reach out to Ziering Medical. We have clinics in Beverly Hills, California; Greenwich, Connecticut; and New York City, New York, and proudly serve patients from around the world