Timeline at a glance
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Tightness, mild pain and possible swelling of the forehead. Sleep with your head raised. First wash as instructed by the clinic. |
| Days 4–10 | Swelling settles. Gentle washing softens the scabs. Redness fades gradually. |
| Days 10–14 | Most scabs are gone and the donor area looks much calmer. |
| Weeks 2–8 | Transplanted hairs often shed. This is normal: the follicles stay in place. |
| Months 3–4 | New hairs begin to appear, often fine at first. |
| Months 6–9 | A clear change in density as the hairs thicken. |
| Months 12–18 | Final result. The crown can take longer than the front. |
Aftercare basics
- Follow your written aftercare instructions; they override general advice like this page.
- Do not touch, scratch or pick at the grafts.
- Avoid heavy exercise, swimming, saunas and strong sun for as long as advised.
- Smoking and alcohol can slow healing; ask when it is safe to resume.
- Wear only a loose hat, and only once the clinic says it is safe.
When to contact the clinic
Get in touch if pain is increasing rather than easing, if you notice pus, spreading redness or a fever, or if anything worries you. Normal shedding is covered in our guide to shock loss.
Common questions
When can I wash my hair after a hair transplant?
Most clinics guide the first gentle wash within the first few days. Follow the exact method and timing you are given.
When can I go back to work?
Many people return to desk work within about 3–7 days. Physical jobs may need longer.
When can I exercise again?
Light walking is usually fine early on. Strenuous exercise is often avoided for a few weeks; ask the clinic for your timing.
When can I get a haircut?
Scissor cuts are usually fine after about a month. Clippers on the grafted area are often avoided for longer, so follow your clinic’s advice.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, risks, recovery and results vary from person to person and are discussed during your consultation. Last updated: