The first headwash after hair transplant surgery is done on the second day post-surgery and this is done in the clinic itself. The head is washed gently with the shampoo foam without touching the grafts. The patient is given a tutorial on how the head is to be washed at home for the next one week, with the given shampoo from the clinic. The patient is not supposed to touch their grafts until the second wash at the clinic. However, the patient can touch the donor area while washing their head.
The patient is called back to the clinic on the tenth day and they are then taught how to touch their grafts and wash their head henceforth. The patient is also taught how to remove the scabs gently while washing. Also, it is explained to the patient that losing the transplanted hair in the first 2 months post-transplant is completely normal and they will eventually grow back.
Patient Guide – Before and After Hair Transplant Surgery
At Regrow by DermaCircles, we believe that patient education and care play as much of a role in your results as the procedure itself.
This guide will help you understand how to prepare for your hair transplant, what to expect on the day of surgery, and how to care for your scalp afterward to ensure the best possible outcome.
Before Hair Transplant Surgery
It’s extremely important to inform your consulting doctor about your complete medical history, including:
- Any past or ongoing medical conditions
- Current medications or supplements
- History of surgeries, allergies, or autoimmune/genetic disorders
Full disclosure ensures your doctor can plan your procedure safely and minimize the risk of drug interactions or complications.
After your consultation, your doctor will prescribe a set of blood tests tailored to your health status.
Once your reports are reviewed, the team will explain all pre-surgery precautions and abstinence guidelines in detail.
These tests help ensure your body is fully prepared for the transplant and that anesthesia and recovery proceed smoothly.
To achieve maximum graft survival and a smooth recovery, avoid the following for at least 2 days before surgery:
| Substance | Reason for Avoidance |
| Smoking | Constricts blood vessels, reduces blood flow to hair follicles, lowers graft survival |
| Alcohol | Interferes with anesthesia and increases bleeding risk |
| Caffeine | Reduces anesthesia effectiveness |
| Blood Thinners | Can cause excessive bleeding during surgery |
Your doctor will guide you on safely pausing any prescribed medications.
On the Day of Hair Transplant
On the day of your procedure, follow these instructions carefully for a smooth and comfortable experience:
- Do not trim your hair for at least 2 weeks before surgery.
- Take a shower and wash your scalp with plain water and mild shampoo.
- Avoid gels, sprays, or styling products on the day of surgery.
- Wear a front-button shirt — avoid t-shirts or tight collars to prevent disturbing the grafts post-surgery.
- Have a light breakfast before coming in; the procedure can last 8–10 hours, and lunch will be provided at the clinic.
- Do not touch your grafts or donor area during or after the procedure unless advised by the doctor.
After Hair Transplant – Recovery & Care Guidelines
Your transplanted hair follicles are delicate for the first few weeks. Following these instructions will help ensure optimal healing and graft survival.
| Activity / Habit | Avoid For |
| Touching grafts | 1 week |
| Bending forward | 3 days |
| Scratching scalp | 1 month |
| Intense exercise | 1 month |
| Steam / sauna | 1 month |
| Sweating / heavy physical work | 2 week |
| Smoking | 1 week |
| Alcohol | 1 week |
| Wearing hat or helmet | 1 month |
| Swimming | 1 months |
| Direct sun exposure | 2 months |
| Sexual intercourse | 1 week |
| Sleeping face down | 10 days |
| Sleeping with neck pillow | 10 days |
| Changing pillowcase daily | 10 days |
| Avoid bumping head | 1 months |
| Using hair styling products | 1 month |
| Hair dye | 3 months |
| Resume work | After 3 days |
Tip: Sleep on your back with a neck pillow for the first 10 days to prevent accidental friction on the grafts.
Hair Growth Stages After Transplant
Hair growth after a transplant happens in phases — patience and consistency are key.
| Phase | Timeline | Description |
| Shedding Phase | 0–3 months | Transplanted hairs shed — this is completely normal. |
| New Growth Begins | From 3rd month | Thin new hairs start appearing. |
| Visible Density | 6–8 months | Noticeable improvement in volume and thickness. |
| Final Results | 12–15 months | Maximum density achieved with full natural coverage. |
Post-Transplant Hair Wash Instructions
- Done at the clinic by the medical team.
- Hair is gently washed using shampoo foam only — grafts are not touched.
- The patient is shown how to continue washing at home using the provided medicated shampoo.
You may touch the donor area, but avoid touching the grafted area until your second wash at the clinic.
- Performed at the clinic under doctor supervision.
- You’ll be taught how to gently touch and clean the grafts and remove scabs safely.
- The doctor will explain that shedding of transplanted hair in the first 2 months is normal — the roots remain intact and will regrow in due course.
Final Takeaway
Following pre- and post-transplant instructions precisely ensures:
- Maximum graft survival
- Faster recovery
- Natural, long-lasting results
Our medical team at Regrow by DermaCircles will guide you through every step of the process — from preparation and surgery to aftercare and follow-ups — to make your hair restoration journey smooth, safe, and satisfying.
