Visiting the hairdresser after your hair transplant is an incredibly exciting, but daunting milestone. You may have concerns about how best to look after your scalp and transplanted hair, so we’ve put together a guide to help you prepare for your first post-transplant trip to the hairdressers.
How long should you wait after your transplant before going to the hairdresser?
In the first few weeks following a hair transplant, your scalp will need a little more care than usual. During this time, you should follow all advice you have been given by your surgeon, who will most likely give you specialist products to use to promote healing and reduce the chance of infection.
After around two to three weeks, the scabs that form shortly after your transplant will begin to heal and fall off. Once this has happened, it is very unlikely that the newly transplanted hair follicles will be lost with a haircut. Despite this, it is recommended that you do not have a haircut until one full month has passed after your transplant.
You should always consult your surgeon if you’re unsure about the healing process, or need advice on hair care after transplant.
Best hairstyles following a hair transplant
After a hair transplant, it will take a number of months before your the transplanted hair begins to grow. This means that the best haircut after transplant will focus on working with the hair you currently have.
One of the great benefits of FUE hair transplants is that there is minimal scarring, so you may choose to shave your head until your transplant begins to grow. Alternatively, if you have longer hair, you could grow this out to cover areas which have been transplanted.
As your hair transplant begins to grow, you’ll be able to experiment with new haircuts and hairstyles that you previously may not have been able to.
Do’s and don’ts after hair transplant
When you’re ready for your first trip to the hairdressers post-transplant, follow these simple tips to help look after your scalp and hair.
Do’s
- Do ask your surgeon for advice if you’re not sure if you are ready for a haircut. If you have any remaining swelling, pain, or redness, you may need to wait longer before going to the hairdresser.
- Be careful when getting your hair dried – the transplant area may still be numb, so you’re at risk of burning your scalp.
- Search out hairdressers that have dealt with hair transplants before if you’re feeling a little nervous. Some hairdressers will advertise this on their website, but it’s worth giving others a call to find out.
Don’ts
- Don’t use styling products if you can help it. Your scalp may be unusually sensitive, so it’s best to ask your surgeon for advice first.
- Don’t be afraid to ask your hairdresser to be more gentle, use cooler water or take a break if you feel any discomfort.
- Don’t worry if you notice your hair thinning after your first haircut. This is a normal part of post-transplant recovery which your surgeon will be able to advise you about.
These simple tips should help you care for your hair post-transplant, and make sure that you get the most from your hairdresser during recovery. If you’re considering a hair transplant, contact us for further information and advice.