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Hairwash is Safe after Hair Transplant ( If Done Properly )

Last Updated: 23 Nov 2025

At our Tsim Sha Tsui clinic, we treat hair washing not as a routine hygiene task — but as the first line of medical defense in your recovery. Thanks to the latest advanced “water-proof” grafting technique, you can — and should — begin gently washing your scalp as early as the day after your procedure. This proactive approach is a key reason we maintain a very low infection rates in the transplanted region.

But how you wash matters just as much as when you wash. Below is your complete, step-by-step guide to safe, effective post-transplant hair care.

Why Hair Washing Is a Medical Priority

Though the incisions from a modern FUE transplant are tiny, they are still surgical wounds. In the first 10–14 days, your grafts are anchoring into their new home — and vulnerable to infection, irritation, or dislodgement. Daily washing directly supports healing by :

Removing dust, oil, and environmental pollutants that could introduce bacteria
Softening scabs so they shed naturally — without pulling on new hairs
Reducing itchiness, redness, and inflammation through gentle cleansing
Creating an optimal environment for graft survival and regrowth

Contrary to outdated advice that recommended “keeping the area dry,” clinical evidence now shows that early, gentle washing significantly improves outcomes.

Your Step-by-Step Hair Washing Protocol

Days 1–14 : Use Our Specialized Shampoo

You’ll be provided with a mild, pH-balanced, post-transplant shampoo formulated to cleanse without irritating delicate grafts.
Do not use regular shampoos during this period — even “gentle” or “baby” formulas may contain fragrances, sulfates, or alcohols that delay healing.
Begin washing 24 hours after your procedure, using the technique demonstrated by our team.

Washing Technique : Gentle is Everything

Wet your scalp with room-temperature water (ideal: 20–22°C).
- In colder months, lukewarm water up to 22°C is acceptable for comfort—but never exceed 36°C (96.8°F) during the first month, as heat can increase swelling and loosen grafts.
Apply a small amount of the recommended shampoo to your palms, lather well, and use only your fingertips—never nails—to massage the scalp in slow, circular motions.
Avoid scrubbing, scratching, or rubbing. Think of it as “floating” your fingers over the skin.
Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water flowing over the scalp—not directly jetted onto it.

💡 Concerned about sweat? Sweat itself isn’t dangerous—but letting it dry on the scalp can cause irritation. The good news: rinsing with clean, cool water alone is often enough to remove sweat between full washes. Just pat dry gently—never rub.

Managing Scabs : Patience Over Force

Around Day 3–7, you’ll notice fine crusts forming around the transplanted hairs. This is completely normal—it’s part of the healing process.

Do NOT pick, peel, or scratch these scabs. Doing so can pull out grafts before they’ve taken root.
Your daily washing will gradually soften the crusts, allowing them to flake away naturally by Day 10–14.
Your physician will share personalized tips during your Day 3 or Day 7 follow-up — such as using a diluted saline spray or applying a light moisturizing mist to aid gentle removal.

When Can You Return to Normal Hair Care?

After 2 weeks: You may transition to your regular shampoo, provided it’s free of harsh sulfates, alcohol, or exfoliating beads. If in doubt, ask us for brand recommendations.
Haircuts: A light trim is generally safe after 7 days, but avoid clippers directly over the transplant zone until Week 3.
Salon visits: We strongly advise washing your hair at home for the first 3 months. Many salons assign junior staff to shampoo clients — and they often use excessive scrubbing, hot water, or vigorous massaging, which can damage fragile grafts even weeks after surgery. If you must visit a salon, bring your own shampoo and give clear instructions: “ No scrubbing. Lukewarm water only. Fingertips only. ”

Key Takeaways : Protect Your Investment

✅ Start washing Day 1 with our specialized shampoo
✅ Use cool to lukewarm water (≤36°C for the first month)
✅ Let scabs fall off naturally—never force them
✅ Avoid salon shampoos for 3 months due to aggressive techniques
✅ Sweat is manageable—rinse with water, no need to panic

Your new hair is a living investment. By treating your scalp with consistent, informed care in these first critical weeks, you’re not just cleaning—you’re securing your results.

🌿 A clean scalp today means fuller hair tomorrow.

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Medical Disclaimers

Information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be interpreted as promotional material or as claims of superiority over other techniques or providers.

Individual results may vary, and no outcome can be guaranteed. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about medical treatment.

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Our ‘No Regret’ Safety & Precision Protocol

At Dr. Bertram Hair Transplant, we only offer what aligns with natural results, minimal risk, and realistic expectations. Since 2009, our FUE protocols are in strict accordance with evidence-based guidelines from ISHRS and WFI. Every procedure is internally audited against ABHRS surgical benchmarks.

ISHRS

International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery is the leading global medical association that establishes international practice standards and patient safety protocols.

ABHRS

The American Board of Hair restoration Surgery represents the highest standard. To maintain rigorous certification requirements the physician must demonstrate surgical expertise.

WFI

Worls FUE InstituteI serves as the premier educational body focused exclusively on Follicular Unit Extraction methodology. The institute ensures consistent application of safe FUE.