Aftercare: how to protect your result
The transplant is only half the work — the weeks afterwards matter too. Here are the key rules for daily life, washing, sleeping and exercise, plus the typical growth timeline.
The first days
Freshly placed grafts are mechanically sensitive in the first days. Avoid touching, scratching and rubbing, skip hats and helmets until your doctor clears them, and keep the treated area out of direct sun. Mild redness and swelling are normal and usually settle within a few days.
Washing your hair
The first wash usually takes place 2–3 days after the procedure — guided at the clinic if you wish. For around two weeks after that: mild shampoo, lukewarm water, no direct shower jet on the recipient area, no rubbing — pat gently instead. You receive the exact washing plan in writing with your aftercare kit.
Sleeping
For the first week, sleep on your back with your head slightly raised (a travel pillow helps) — this reduces swelling and protects the grafts from rubbing on the pillow. A clean, soft pillowcase or a towel underneath helps too.
Exercise & activity
Week 1: take it easy — gentle walks only
From week 2: light activity without heavy sweating
From weeks 3–4: cardio and weight training once your doctor clears them
Sauna, sunbeds and swimming: usually pause for 4 weeks
Healing and growth at 3, 6 and 12 months
Months 1–3: healing & shedding
Crusts clear within the first two weeks. Then many transplanted hairs shed — a normal part of the hair cycle; the roots remain in place.
Months 3–6: growth begins
New hairs grow in — fine and uneven at first, thickening over time. At 6 months the result can be judged well for the first time.
Months 6–12: density & final result
Density and hair calibre keep increasing. The final result shows at around 12 months — sometimes a little later at the crown. Individual timelines vary.
Important
These notes are general information. What counts is the individual aftercare plan you receive from us — and if you are ever unsure, we are easy to reach.
Frequently asked questions
When will I see the final result?
Visible regrowth usually starts from months 3–4. At around 6 months the result can be judged well, and the final result typically shows at 12 months. Individual timelines vary.
Learn more: Recovery timeline: day by day
When can I go back to work after the procedure?
Many patients return to desk-based work after 2–4 days. For physically demanding jobs, strong sun exposure or dusty environments we recommend a longer break — we agree the exact timing with you individually.
Learn more: Aftercare & recovery guide
When can I exercise again after a hair transplant?
Light activity is usually fine after about a week. Sweat-inducing sport, weight training, saunas and swimming should generally wait 3–4 weeks. Your individual aftercare plan is what counts.
Learn more: Aftercare & recovery guide
Why do the transplanted hairs fall out at first?
So-called shedding between week 2 and month 3 is a normal part of the hair cycle: the hair shafts fall out while the transplanted roots remain in place and then produce new hair.
Learn more: Recovery timeline: day by day
How does the first hair wash after the procedure work?
The first wash usually takes place 2–3 days after the procedure — at the clinic if you wish, so you can be shown the right technique once. After that you wash to plan with a mild shampoo, without rubbing or a direct shower jet.
Learn more: Aftercare & recovery guide