A hair transplant takes a few hours. The aftercare takes longer than that. Here we go through what the first twelve weeks usually look like, step by step. Timelines vary between clinics, so your clinic's own instructions always come first.
Week 1: the first days
The first seven days are about being careful. The scalp is tender, and many people get swelling in the forehead and around the eyes. The swelling is common and usually settles within a few days.
Sit or half sit as much as you can, even when you sleep. An extra pillow or a neck pillow helps. Avoid bending forward and touching the area with your hands. We have written more about how NEXO Borste is used for lymphatic massage in the article on swelling and lymphatic massage. A day by day walkthrough is in the first seven days.
Week 2: the scabs fall off
Around day seven to ten the scabs start to loosen. Let them fall off on their own. Never pick at them, not even the ones that sit loosely. Once the clinic has given you the go ahead you can start washing your hair yourself, often with small, gentle movements. More about that in when can I wash my hair.
Week 3 to 4: everyday life returns
Life starts to feel more normal now. Many clinics allow cardio exercise after about 14 days, and sauna and swimming after about four weeks. Ask your clinic what applies to you. Start slowly and listen to your body. The details about sleep, exercise and everyday life are gathered in their own article.
Week 5 to 12: find the routine
During this period the scalp can itch and feel dry. The new hair can feel coarse, and some of the transplanted hairs fall out before they come back. That is a normal part of the process. More about that in when the hair feels coarse.
This is when a steady daily routine makes the biggest difference. The Ritual is NEXO's aftercare routine in three steps, developed together with Hair TP Clinic. Lather Me Up cleanses gently without drying out. Mist Me Crazy gives moisture without weight during the day. Whip Me Good helps preserve moisture and leaves the hair feeling soft.
Take it at your own pace
Twelve weeks can feel long, but each phase passes. Be careful in the beginning. Leave the scabs alone. Then build the routine that carries you forward. If you have questions about your procedure, your clinic is always the first place to turn.